DBE/ACDBE Reevaluation Process Moves Into Review Phase

On behalf of the Texas Unified Certification Program (TUCP), the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has concluded the document submission period for the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) reevaluation process, as required by the United States Department of Transportation. TxDOT will now begin transitioning reevaluation responsibilities back to the TUCP certification partners, including Austin Small and Minority Business Resources.

What This Means for DBE and ACDBE Firms

If you have already submitted reevaluation documents, your documents will be accepted and processed. Because of the volume of submissions and the level of attention each one requires, this may take some time. If you have not yet received an update on the status of your reevaluation, an evaluator will contact you if any deficiencies are found, and you will have an opportunity to address them before a final determination is made.

If you were DBE or ACDBE certified on October 3, 2025 and have not yet submitted reevaluation documents, you may still do so. Submit your reevaluation documents to your certification agency. We strongly encourage all DBEs and ACDBEs to submit promptly to continue participating in the programs.

What's Next for Certification Agencies

Certification agencies will remain dedicated to existing DBEs and ACDBEs through the month of June, then will begin accepting new certifications and interstate certifications shortly thereafter. Firms seeking interstate certifications for the state of Texas are still on hold. The process is expected to open in early July, and firms will be notified once a date is determined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why don't I see any names in the DBE directory?

The TUCP will relist firms on the DBE and ACDBE directories once the reevaluation process is complete.

My Jurisdiction of Original Certification (JOC) is in Texas, and I am ready to apply for interstate certification in a different state. What do I do?

Send an email to IFR@txdot.gov with your name, firm name, and the state in which you are seeking certification.

I am undecided about submitting my reevaluation documents. What should I do?

The DBE and ACDBE programs still exist. We strongly encourage all firms to demonstrate eligibility under the new criteria so they can continue to benefit from the programs in the future.

When will Texas have project goals again?

The TUCP intends to give new and interstate applicants time to demonstrate eligibility under the new criteria before setting goals. In addition, awarding agencies must first update their DBE Program Plans and special provisions, and calculate an overall goal based on the number of ready, willing and able DBE and ACDBE firms certified under the new criteria. The timeline depends on many factors, but project goals are unlikely to resume before January 2027.

What is the most common reason that applications are returned?

Lack of documentation for the Personal Net Worth (PNW) statement. All personal bank accounts must be disclosed with supporting documentation, such as the most recent bank statement. The PNW threshold applies to individuals and excludes specific assets like ownership interest in the DBE firm, the personal residence and assets in qualified retirement accounts. Review the full list of PNW requirements and supporting documentation before submitting.

When can I apply for a new DBE or ACDBE certification?

Firms applying for new DBE and ACDBE certifications are still on hold. The process is expected to open in early July, and firms will be notified once a date is determined.

Where can I get additional information?

Resources and forms can be found on TxDOT's IFR page.

For questions, contact TxDOT's Civil Rights Division or call 512-416-4700.