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Understand DBE Certification Requirements
Certification
A firm seeking certification has to meet requirements concerning group membership or individual disadvantage, business size*, ownership and control. *Small Business Administration (SBA) – provides size caps for specialized areas of work.
Eligibility
Per the federal regulations contained in 49 CFR Part 26, Electronic Code of Federal regulations, a DBE is a for-profit small business concern that is:
- At least 51 percent owned by one or more individuals who are both socially and economically disadvantaged. In the case of a corporation, in which 51 percent of the stock is owned by one or more such individuals; and,
- Whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own the business.
Apply for DBE Certification
Note: If using a different web browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla FireFox), right-click the form link and select “Save link as…” to download a working copy. PDF forms are currently not compatible with mobile or Apple (iOS) devices.
Complete the following:
- Uniform Certification Application (Revised)
- Personal Net worth Statement (Revised)
- COVID19 – Notary Guidance
- Work Category and Location Document (utilize the IDOT District map to determine where your firm can perform in an efficient and profitable manner)
Send your completed (printed) application and supporting documentation:
Attn: Certification Section
Illinois Department of Transportation
Bureau of Small Business Enterprises
2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Room 319
Springfield, IL 62764
Please note:
- The average processing time is 90 days from receipt of a complete application.
- Supportive Service consultants are available to assist firms interested in becoming IDOT certified at no cost. Visit the Supportive Services page for more information.
Maintain DBE Certification
Note: If using a different web browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla FireFox), right-click the form link and select “Save link as…” to download a working copy. PDF forms are currently not compatible with mobile or Apple (iOS) devices.
Declaration of Eligibility (DOE)
DBE Certification is valid until a firm no longer meets minimum eligibility standards under 49 CFR Part 26 or fails to cooperate with requests for information.
Certified firms must confirm their continued eligibility annually by submitting a Declaration of Eligibility. Firms must submit a signed copy (including all schedules/attachments) of the current year’s business tax return with the DOE. If the personal tax return includes business taxes, then a complete signed copy (including all schedules/attachments) of the current year personal tax must be submitted.
Note: IDOT PDF forms can be opened directly when using Internet Explorer. If using a different web browser (Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla FireFox), right-click the form link and select “Save link as…” to download a working copy. PDF forms are currently not compatible with mobile or Apple (iOS) devices.
