What is certification?

Certification is the process through which we examine the ownership and control of businesses seeking designation as a disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE).

All firms certified by CTA as a DBE will be deemed eligible as an Illinois Unified Certification Program (IL UCP) company. The IL UCP DBE designation provides for "one-stop-shopping" for DBE certification within the state of Illinois and is accepted by all USDOT recepients. The five (5) agencies within the IL UCP who issue DBE certifications are the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), City of Chicago, CTA, Metra and Pace. Is there a cost to become certified?

No. There is no cost for the certification process.

How long does it take to become certified?

One the average, it takes 90 days to process a certification application provided all required documents and complete answers to all questions have been submitted.

Where can I get a copy of the certification application?

The certification application is available on the 4th Floor 567 W. Lake Street. Chicago, IL 60661-1498 Phone # (312) 681-2608. The application also can be downloaded off our website under Unified Certification Application.

What does the certification process involve?

The certification application is first assigned to an Intake Analyst to review for completeness of information. The Intake Analyst works with the applicant to obtain any missing information and prepares the application for submission to the Certification Officer. The Certification Officer reviews the application, conducts a site visit and issues a recommendation to accept or deny the application for DBE eligibility. A management committee determines the final decision for approval or denial, based upon the officer's recommendations and findings. If the DBE Program approves the application, a "certification letter" is issued to the applicant. If the DBE Program denies certification, the applicant is given an opportunity to appeal the certification denial decision.

Will the certification application be processed if all answers are not provided?

Yes, however, an incomplete application will take longer to process. It is important that all answers be accurate and complete. If a question is not applicable, then indicate "not applicable" or "n/a".

Is there a geographic location requirement for certification?

No.

How long does certification last?

The original certification is valid for three years. During the 3 year period, the applicant will be required to submit a "No Change Affidavit", on the anniversary date of its original certification affirming no change has occurred impacting its DBE status.

Is the Chicago Transit Authority's certification accepted by other entities?

Yes. The CTA's certification is accepted by the Illinois Department of Transportation, City of Chicago, Metra and PACE.

Where can I get a copy of the directory of certified businesses?

You can get a copy at 567 W. Lake Street. (4th Floor), Chicago, IL 60661-1498 Phone # (312) 681-2608. Businesses certified with the IL UCP as DBEs are also listed on our website in the DBE Directory.

s Should I apply for DBE certification?

DBE goals are established for projects funded by the federal government. These projects impact the improvements or support of the Authority's daily operations. If your company is interested in these contracts, you should apply for DBE certification with any IL UCP agency. Once certified as a DBE by an IL UCP member, it is not necessary to reapply with CTA.

Do I have to be certified to do business with the Chicago Transit Authority?

No. A business is not required to be certified to do business with CTA. However, any work you perform as a prime contractor or subcontractor will not be credited as meeting the established DBE contract goal.

Must I complete the Socio and Economic Affidavit as well as a Personal Net Worth Statement for each owner?

Yes. Those persons who are identified as socio and economic disadvantaged individuals that make up 51 percent of the firms ownership are required to complete these affidavits.

If I am certified with any other agency as an MBE/WBE, must I complete a DBE application with CTA?

Yes. The Chicago Transit Authority does not accept MBE/WBE reciprocal certifications from any agency. Only IL UCP DBE certifications are accepted by CTA.