DBE/MBE/WOSB Certification FAQ
Expert Answers from a Former Government Certification Analyst
Frequently asked questions
What is DBE certification and why should I get it?
DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) certification is a federal USDOT program that helps socially and economically disadvantaged individuals access transportation-related contracts.
Benefits:
- Access to billions in DOT-funded highway, transit, and aviation contracts
- Listed in state DOT contractor directories (MDOT, VDOT, WMATA)
- Prime contractors actively seek DBE partners to meet participation goals
- Competitive advantage on federally-funded transportation projects
In the DMV region Maryland through MDOT, Virginia through VDOT VA SBSD or MWAA, and Washington DC through WMATA or DDOT, maintain active DBE programs with significant contract opportunities.
I want to work in multiple states, or I’m already DBE certified in one state but want to expand. How do I get certified in another state?
To pursue DBE work in another state, your business must first be certified in the state where it’s based. For example, if you're headquartered in Virginia and want to work with MDOT in Maryland, you'll need to:
1. Be certified in Virginia, and then
2. Apply for interstate certification in Maryland.
We offer support for both steps, including bundle pricing if you're certifying in multiple states. In the DMV area, it’s common for firms to hold certifications in all three states. It opens more contract opportunities, and primes often prefer working with firms already certified across state lines.
What's the difference between DBE, MBE, and WOSB?
DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise)
- Federal USDOT program for transportation contracts
- 51%+ owned by socially/economically disadvantaged individual(s)
- Personal net worth cap: $2,047,000 (as of May 2024)
- Administered by state DOTs or public transit agencies
MBE (Minority Business Enterprise)
- State/local programs for all types of contracts
- 51%+ minority ownership
- No federal net worth cap
- Varies by jurisdiction
WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business)
- Federal SBA program for all federal contracts
- 51%+ woman-owned and controlled
- Must meet SBA size standards
- Self-certify or third-party certification
Which to pursue? Most DMV businesses start with DBE or MBE for state DOT work, then add WOSB for broader federal opportunities.
Do I qualify for DBE certification?
You must meet ALL requirements:
Ownership: 51%+ owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, including:
- Women (all races)
- Black Americans
- Hispanic Americans
- Native Americans
- Asian-Pacific Americans
- Subcontinent Asian Americans
Control: Disadvantaged owner(s) must control day-to-day operations and have managerial/technical expertise
Economic Disadvantage: Personal net worth under $2,047,000 (excluding primary home equity, retirement accounts, and ownership in applicant firm)
Citizenship: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Good Standing: Business legally formed, current licenses, no tax liens or debarments
How long does the certification process take?
Document preparation: 4-6 weeks
Agency review: 60-180 days depending on agency
DMV timelines:
- MDOT (Maryland): 90-120 days
- VDOT (Virginia): 60-90 days
- WMATA: 90-180 days
Total realistic timeline: 4-6 months from start to approval
What speeds up approval:
- Complete, accurate application
- Consistent information across documents
- Quick response to agency requests
Should I hire a consultant or do it myself?
DIY Applications:
- Take 40-60 hours on average
- 30-40% rejection rate
- Often require multiple submissions
Professional Preparation:
- Higher first-submission approval rates
- Saves 40+ hours of your time
- Expert catches issues before submission
Hire help if:
- You don't have 40-60 hours to dedicate
- Your ownership structure is complex
- You want it done right the first time
- You're pursuing a time-sensitive opportunity
Our CEO is a former analyst, Equal Footing Consulting can spot rejection issues in minutes that most applicants don't see until after denial.
What documents do I need?
Business Documents:
- Articles of Incorporation/Organization
- Operating Agreement or Bylaws (including ALL amendments)
- Stock/membership certificates
- Current business license(s)
Financial Documents:
- Last 3 years business tax returns (complete with ALL schedules)
- Last 3 years personal tax returns for ALL owners (complete)
- Current balance sheet and P&L (within 90 days)
- Business bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Ownership & Control:
- Resumes for all owners
- Organizational chart
- Bank signature cards
- Evidence of operational control (contracts, hiring decisions)
Personal Financial (for DBE):
- Personal net worth statement for disadvantaged owners
- Asset documentation
- Liability documentation
- Personal Narrative
How do I actually win contracts after certification?
Certification opens doors! You must walk through them.
Action steps:
1. Get listed in DOT contractor directories
2. Add certification to website, LinkedIn, proposals
3. Attend matchmaking events
4. Network with prime contractors
5. Monitor bid postings
6. Build relationships with 5-10 target primes
7. Deliver excellence on first contract
The reality is that while certification doesn’t guarantee contracts, it gives you access that you previously lacked. With this, you must also bring competitive pricing, showcase strong capabilities, and excel in relationship-building.
Why choose Equal Footing?
Unique advantage: Hannah Follweiler a former government certification analyst who reviewed hundreds of applications. She knows exactly what agencies look for and what causes rejections.
What we provide:
- Deep DMV expertise (WMATA, MDOT, VA SBSD, etc )
- Full-service application preparation
- Agency liaison and follow-up
- On-Site visit preparation coaching
- Post-certification growth strategy
Our process:
1. Free consultation to assess eligibility
2. Document collection and review
3. Complete application preparation
4. Quality assurance checklist
5. Submission and agency follow-up
6. Support until approval
We also offer bundles for Initials + Interstates + Renewals! Please inquire for more information!
Still Have Questions?
Email us: hannah@equal-footing.com
Schedule consultation: Calendar Link
Call us: (571) 473-8127
As a former government analyst, Hannah has seen it all. No question is too basic or too complex. Let's talk about your specific situation.
Get in Touch
We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns. Reach out to us for support and guidance.
Contact
(571) 473-8127
hannah@equal-footing.com