Responsibilities of Prospective In-State DBE Firms
Read about the Program
One of the most important steps you can take before becoming a DBE is to understand the program and its requirements. We strongly urge all potential applicants to review the DBE Regulations by which we are governed. Additional materials are available on USDOT’s website. Familiarizing yourself with the requirements of the program will enable you to accurately determine if you will meet the criteria for certification before investing your time which we know is valuable.
Submit Complete Packet
Applying online is the most expeditious manner to submit your application. Also, it ensures that all your documentation remains accessible to you in one place. We know the DBE application process is thorough. We cannot accept partial or incomplete submissions. We strongly suggest applicants review the application instructions and check list. In the event, you are unable to provide a document on the checklist, you must submit a letter of explanation (signed and dated, preferably on company letterhead) instead. For example, if your business was opened three months ago and you do not have business taxes, submit a letter of explanation instead. The DBE Specialist assigned to review your firm may request other documentation as the process moves forward.
Onsite Visit
Once the complete application with the required supporting documentation has been received, assigned, and reviewed, we will reach out to schedule an onsite visit. Generally, onsite visits begin at 10 am and we ask that you allow up to four (4) hours. Per federal regulations, we are required to record the onsite visit. The DBE Specialist will ask you questions regarding the management, ownership, and control of the applicant firm. We will also request supporting documentation during the interview. Please have your business records on hand at the time of the visit. If your firm is actively working on a jobsite or otherwise conducting business, we may request to tour the facility and/or jobsite.
Follow-up
After the onsite visit, we will follow-up with any questions or clarifications we may need to continue reviewing your firm. The DBE Specialist will make a recommendation to the DBE Program Manager and a final decision will be issued to the applicant.
Responsibilities of Prospective Out-of-State DBE Firms
Certification in your Jurisdiction of Original Certification (JOC)
In accordance with 49 CFR 26.81(d), Delaware will not process an application for certification for a firm having its principal place of business outside the state. You must seek certification in your JOC before applying in Delaware. Please refer to 49 CFR 26.5 for relevant definitions. Please contact a DBE Specialist if you have questions regarding a JOC determination.
Submit Required Supporting Documentation
- New Declaration of Eligibility
- Cover letter specifying you are applying for interstate certification in Delaware and identify all UCPs in which you are certified
- Electronic image of UCP directory listing from the Jurisdiction of Original Certification
