Agencies
Services
DBE Certification
Statement on interim final rule on Disadvantaged Business Enterprises published in the Federal Register on Oct. 3:
On Oct. 3, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued an Interim Final Rule for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise in Airport Concessions Program Implementation Modifications. The U.S. DOT has stated that the IFR is effective immediately. It can be found at:
The Illinois Department of Transportation is actively reviewing the IFR and identifying next steps for the State of Illinois.
Through DBE programs, Illinois has made enormous strides in leveling the playing field for diverse businesses who have historically been left out of government contracting opportunities and we remain committed to uplifting disadvantaged businesses through various programs and resources dedicated to creating more equitable opportunities. We will be following up with additional information, and we are also seeking implementation guidance from the U.S. DOT.
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) provides minorities, women and other eligible small businesses an opportunity to participate in transportation contracts that utilize federal funds. Beyond certification, IDOT fosters opportunities for DBE firms and individuals interested in doing business with the agency to learn, grow and network through available Supportive Services.
Construction or professional services firms looking to build their business and maintain a competitive edge are encouraged to conduct business with IDOT as a certified DBE.
"One-stop-shopping” is provided to DBE program applicants, such that an applicant need only apply once for DBE certification that will be honored by all participating agencies in the IL UCP.
For general inquiries or assistance, call (217) 782-5490.
Pursuant to the requirements of the federal regulations, 49 CFR Part 26 , all federal-aid recipients implement a “one-stop” certification process for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). As a result of this requirement, the following five state agencies: IDOT, City of Chicago, CTA, Metra and Pace, established the Illinois Unified Certification Program (IL UCP).
"One-stop-shopping” is provided to DBE program applicants, such that an applicant need only apply once for DBE certification that will be honored by all participating agencies in the IL UCP.
IL UCP Directory
The IL UCP DBE Directory provides a reference source of certified DBE firms. The Directory lists the firms in alphabetical order, including the NAICS codes* and specialties and lists IDOT’s district(s) in which the firms have indicated they are available. The Directory provides a reference source to assist bidders/proposers in meeting DBE contract goals.
*North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Codes – classification of the specialties or services that a firm seeks to perform.
Directory
The directory lists the firms in alphabetical order and by the industry categories/list and IDOT’s district(s) in which the firms have indicated they are available. The directory is updated the twentieth of every month.
Notice
- DBEs
To ensure accurate information is included in the directory, all certified firms are required to provide up to date contact information as it changes. Changes should be faxed or mailed to their certifying agency on the firm’s letterhead providing the corrected contact information. - Primes
It is the responsibility of the prime contractor/consultant to make his/her own determination regarding the capability of a DBE firm. Only those firms certified as of the letting date/bid opening may be utilized in meeting a DBE contract goal.
UCP Partners
While the applications are identical, an agency may have their own attachments. Review each IL UCP participant’s area of specialty and please choose the agency that best serves your firm.
- IDOT (217) 782-5490
- City of Chicago (312) 744-4900
- Pace (847) 228-4257
- CTA (312) 681-2601
- Metra (312) 322-6323
General Recertification Information
Recertification with IDOT
- Expand your expertise
- Network with established businesses
- Make lasting investments in your community
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.
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.
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.
To learn more about it - FAQ.