Section 2: DBE Certification Specifics
Overview
Certification procedures are designed to ensure all businesses
participating in the TxDOT DBE program meet the eligibility standards
defined in US DOT regulations at 49 CFR Part 26. A business certified
as a DBE can bid on all projects in the state of Texas, provided
individual agency requirements that apply to all firms, DBE and
non-DBE alike, also have been met. Firms wishing to be considered
for DBE certification must complete the TUCP DBE Certification Application
and submit all information requested on the application. The application
is designed to solicit information to determine whether an applicant
business is eligible for certification as a DBE under 49 CFR Part
26. For an application go to:
Interstate Certification
A DBE whose primary business is not based in Texas must be
DBE-certified in their home state before they are eligible to apply
for certification in Texas.
On-site Visits and Field Monitoring
Visits are conducted at the applicant’s principal place of
business with firms seeking first-time certification. During the
on-site visit, the firm’s principal officers and key employees must
respond in writing to questions designed to clarify information
contained either in the application package or received at the on-site
visit. Questions are designed to verify whether or not the applicant
meets DBE certification standards. During the on-site visit, certification
staff may review a firm’s financial, corporate, payroll and other
records. Following the on-site visit, a report based on facts contained
in the applicant’s file will be developed and presented for managerial
review and a certification eligibility decision.
Completion of Application Process
The report of the on-site visit is completed by certification
staff and a recommendation is made in the report on whether the
applicant meets or not eligibility standards established in federal regulations
and state law.
Denial Process
If grounds for a determination of certification ineligibility
are sufficient, the certifying agency will mail the firm a Notice
of Certification Denial, which will contain reasons for the decision
and advises the applicant of its right to appeal to the US DOT.