When Is DBE Certification Required?
Certification is not required to do business with SEPTA. Interested vendors must register in our electronic Procurement System (ePS) to receive notification of opportunities in their respective areas of expertise.
However, DBE certification is required for small, minority and woman-owned businesses to participate in federally-funded, transit-related projects as a DBE. SEPTA’s DBE Program Office processes DBE certifications in accordance with 49 CFR, Part 26.
Online DBE Application Process
Small, minority and woman-owned businesses owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individual(s) can apply online for DBE certification by visiting the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program’s (PA UCP) website. The website provides information about the Federal DBE Program as well as instructions for applying online.
SEPTA is a certifying member of the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PAUCP).
Paper DBE Application Process
Businesses wishing to apply for DBE certification using the paper process must submit both the DBE/ACDBE Uniform Certification Application (PDF) and DBE/ACDBE Personal Net Worth Statement (PDF) together. The documents must be fully completed and notarized and include all required supporting documentation identified on page 14 of the DBE application.
Businesses Outside of Pennsylvania
Businesses located outside of Pennsylvania must first obtain DBE certification in their home state before applying for DBE certification in the PA UCP.
Once a business is DBE certified in their state, they must submit an Interstate Application and PA UCP DBE/ACDBE Interstate Certification Affidavit (PDF) document fully completed and notarized. The document must include all required documentation identified in items 1 through 4 on the first page. Submit applications at www.paucp.com.
Additional Certification Resources
Small businesses seeking Minority, Woman or Disabled-owned Business Enterprise (MBE, WBE, DSBE) certification to participate on state, city, county or privately-funded projects, can obtain such certifications through the following agencies: