Design Consultant Prequalification

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KDOT has fully implemented the updated Blue Book as the official standard for Design Consultant pre-qualification. All category definitions, qualification requirements, and processes now reflect the current edition.

Firms must be pre-qualified in the applicable category(ies) to be eligible for selection on KDOT projects.

What's New in 2026

To support clarity and consistency, the following updates are now in effect: 

  • The Blue Book categories have been streamlined and revised to better reflect current industry practices. 
  • Certain categories include updated experience, staffing, and documentation requirements.
  • The KDOT 1050 Form has been revised to align with current categories and improve submission accuracy. 
  • All Requests for Proposals (RFPs) now use the updated Blue Book categories and requirements. 

How to Get Prequalified 

Before being selected for a KDOT project, companies offering engineering or technical services must be prequalified in the relevant categories specified in the project RFP. Here’s how to get prequalified: 

  • Review Category Requirements: Refer to the current Blue Book for category definitions and qualification criteria.
  • Complete the 1050 Form:
    • Select applicable categories. 
    • Provide all required supporting documentation. 
  • Submit your application: Email a complete PDF copy along with any required documentation to KDOT.DesignContracts@ks.gov.

Submission Tips 

  • New or Updated Submissions: Firms may submit new or revised pre-qualification packages at any time. 
  • Review Process:
    • Typically includes review by at least two (2) evaluators per category
    • Average processing time is approximately three (3) weeks. 
    • Expedited reviews may be requested for active proposals. 

Annual Re-Submission Requirements

  • Existing Pre-qualified Firms: Must re-submit the 1050 Form annually, or every other year if there are no significant changes. 
  • Timing: Submit the form and documentation at least six (6) weeks before the annual expiration of current pre-qualification status. 

Current Pre-qualified Consultants  

Get more information on construction contractor pre-qualification.

Webinar Resource

Quick Guidance for Firms

  • Ensure your firm is pre-qualified before submitting on an RFP. 
  • Verify that your selected categories match the RFP requirements exactly.
  • Submit updates early if:
    • Key staff changes occur
    • Change in firm name
    • Experience/project history changes
    • Adding new categories
  • Allow additional time during peak procurement periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact

Reach out to the KDOT Design Contracts team using the link below: 

Email