MBE & Minority Subcontractor Certification Process Fact Sheet

What is different about the process?
The process for certifying as a Minority Business Enterprise pursuant to OCGA 50-5-130 and as a Minority Subcontractor pursuant to OCGA 48-7-38 with the Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS) has been streamlined. It now involves using the Georgia Department of Transportation's (GDOT) certification application and personal net worth affidavit as the central certification forms. This will result in dual certification with both DOAS and DOT.

How does this process benefit minority vendors?

This process minimizes duplication of effort for vendors by consolidating the certification forms that can be used by both GDOT and DOAS;
It enables vendors to certify with two entities, DOAS and GDOT;
It provides vendors that certify with greater exposure to larger companies by virtue of their listing on both the DOAS list of certified minority businesses and the GDOT list of disadvantaged business enterprises;
It provides vendors greater exposure to government procurement staff seeking minority vendors to extend bid opportunities; and
It allows minority vendors access to Federal GDOT programs intended to increase participation of small, minority and woman-owned businesses.

How long will it take for a vendor to become certified?
Vendors can expect an evaluation period of 90 days. The certification process is very thorough and includes scheduled site visits, information exchange, document reviews, transactions via the U. S. Postal Service, etc.

Whom do I call for further assistance?
You may contact the DOAS Vendor Relations at 404-657-6000. You may also contact the Georgia Department of Transportation at 404-656-5323.

How can vendors get the certification forms?
The DOT Certification Application can be obtained online at the DOAS State Purchasing Web site behind the link called Services>Vendor Relations>Certification Process.

Vendors may also pick up the forms at the following addresses:

Georgia DOT
#2 Capitol Square S.W.
Room 142
Atlanta, Georgia 30334-1002
404-656-5323

OR

DOAS Vendor Relations
200 Piedmont Avenue, S.W.
Suite 1308, West Tower
Atlanta, Georgia 30334-9010
404-657-6000

Note: The forms may not be faxed out or in because of the requirement to maintain originals.

Is there any cost associated with certification?
There is no cost to vendors to apply for Minority Business Enterprise, Minority Subcontractor, or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Certification.

How long are certifications valid?
Certifications are valid for up to three years.

Why would my application be rejected?
All original applications with revisions or editing will be rejected. The majority of rejected applications generally contain revisions or edits.

Print this