DBE Interim Final Ruling (IFR) Update

All DBE certification-related activities are halted until further notice. The TUCP will not process new DBE applications or annual declarations of eligibility submitted after October 10, 2025, until further notice.

Notice from TxDOT regarding DBE Interim Final Ruling (IFR)

View notice.

Public Comment Period on DBE IFR Open Through November 3, 2025

You can review the IFR and submit comments to the U.S. DOT on the IFR until November 3, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Key modifications of the IFR include:

Removal of race- and sex-based presumptions in DBE qualifications.
Requirement for agencies to reevaluate DBE applicants based on evidence of social and economic disadvantage.
Suspension of DBE reporting and compliance during the reevaluation process.
Suspension of DBE project goals on existing contracts.
No new project goals until all reevaluations are completed.

How to Prepare for Reevaluation with the TUCP

Review and update contact information in the TUCP DBE Directory now to ensure notifications are received by the appropriate person.

Document submissions will be time sensitive. A submission deadline has not been set at this time; however, DBEs are encouraged to prepare now. As stated in the revised 49 CFR 26.67, the following documents are required:

Personal narrative  establishing the existence of disadvantage with individualized evidence. This includes specific instances of economic hardship, systemic barriers, and denied opportunities that have impeded the owner’s progress or success in education, employment, or business. Evidence should also highlight difficulties in obtaining financing on terms available to similarly situated, non-disadvantaged individuals.

If your DBE or ACDBE firm is 8(a) Certified by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and has previously submitted a personal narrative to the SBA, you may use the same narrative for reevaluation of your DBE certification for review.
Personal Net Worth Statement