DBE Certification Eligibility Checker

DBE certification, explained

The DBE programreserves a share of federally-funded transportation work for small firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged people. If you do — or want to do — highway, transit, or airport work, DBE certification is what lets you count toward agencies' DBE participation goals. This checker walks the core tests so you know whether it's worth applying.

What is DBE certification?

DBE — Disadvantaged Business Enterprise — is a US Department of Transportation program that steers federally-assisted transportation contracts (highway, transit, airport) toward small firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. It is not an SBA federal set-aside; you certify through your state's Unified Certification Program (UCP).

Who qualifies for DBE?

A for-profit small business under the SBA size standard for its work and the DBE gross-receipts cap; at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (women and members of certain minority groups are presumed disadvantaged); and the disadvantaged owner's personal net worth must be under the program cap (excluding the primary residence and the business).

How is DBE different from 8(a) or MBE?

DBE is USDOT transportation work, certified by your state. 8(a) is the SBA's federal business-development program. MBE is for corporate supplier-diversity and state/local government (via NMSDC or a state program). They're separate certifications aimed at different buyers — many firms hold more than one.

What does DBE certification cost?

Applying through your state's Unified Certification Program is generally free — there's no government application fee. Costs, if any, come from optional help preparing the application.