Socially and economically disadvantaged owner(s) hold at least 51%
States set DBE participation goals on federally funded transportation projects. Certified DBEs get visibility on every state DOT bid list.
US DOT (administered by states) · Socially and economically disadvantaged owners
DBE — Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
US DOT certification for transportation-funded contracts — strong if your work touches roads, transit, airports, or federally funded infrastructure.
Who qualifies
Owners control day-to-day operations
States set DBE participation goals on federally funded transportation projects. Certified DBEs get visibility on every state DOT bid list.
Personal net worth under DBE cap
States set DBE participation goals on federally funded transportation projects. Certified DBEs get visibility on every state DOT bid list.
Business under DBE size cap
States set DBE participation goals on federally funded transportation projects. Certified DBEs get visibility on every state DOT bid list.
Process
State selection
Apply through your home-state UCP (Unified Certification Program).
Application
Submit using the DOT-standardized DBE form.
Review
State reviews disadvantaged status, control, and financials.
Certification
DBE certification, reciprocal across most states.
Ready when you are
Pursue your DBE certification.
Run the eligibility screen, gather documents, and submit with VetBiz alongside you.