1. Does it cost anything to be certified?

No, certification is free.

2. Why does the NCTRCA request so many supporting documents?

The NCTRCA only request the minimum documentation that will support the ownership, management, and controlling role of the disadvantaged/minority/women owners and key employees.

3. What if the requested information is not available or applicable?

Explain on a separate page why the information is not available, applicable or simply write N/A.

4. Why doesn't the NCTRCA accept certification from HUB, MBDC, NTWBC, etc.?

Different certifying bodies have different certification criteria. The NCTRCA uses certification guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Title 49 CFR Part 26 and from the Federal Aviation Administration as applicable.

5. Is there any certification that the NCTRCA will accept?

The NCTRCA will accept certification from the Small Business Administration under their 8(a) program and other DOT certified certification agencies. If the firm is an 8(a) or other DOT certified firm, it should complete a certification application and provide a copy of the original certificate/letter verifying the company's status.

6. Where can I get assistance to complete the certification application?

The NCTRCA staff can help you answer questions and organize the information needed to complete the certification application. Various minority chambers of commerce as well as member entities can also offer assistance.

7. How long is the certification process?

If the application is complete, the process can take from 30 to 90 days. You will receive a status update at the 45-day interval.

8. Why does the certification process take so long?

The NCTRCA is responsible for certifying firms for numerous agencies; thus, the volume is quite high. Also, firms fail to submit complete information, delaying the process. In many instances, site visits must also be conducted, which requires additional time.

9. Will the certification process affect me when bidding on any public agency projects?

NO. Certification status will not affect a company doing business with any public agency. If the company is considered for a contract with a member entity, that member entity can request priority status for your application so that the NCTRCA can expedite it. Prioritization does not ensure certification.

10. Does certification ensure that my firm's name will be automatically placed in the member bidder's list?

NO. Certification does not guarantee being placed in a government entity's database. You must contact each member entity and make your request known.

11. How long is the certification in effect?

Certification is good for three(3) years, but it must be renewed annually.

12. How do I know when my certification will expire?

The last four (4) digits of the firm's certification number represent the month and year of expiration. One month prior to the expiration date, the NCTRCA will notify the firm and send a renewal certiciation affidavit.

13. What if my certification has expired and I have already sent my information?

Contact the NCTRCA to verify that the agency has received the information needed to update the certification. Let your clients know about the situation and refer them to the NCTRCA. Your certification will remain current until the NCTRCA can review the recertification package.

14. What happens if there are any changes to the business or its structure?

The NCTRCA should be notified of any changes made in the company, including address, telephone/fax number or ownership.

15. Does certification imply a qualification?

NO. Certification merely states that a firm meets the established criteria to be certified as a disadvantaged/minority/woman-owned business. The NCTRCA does not recommend or imply that a particular firm is qualified or not qualified to perform the services stated in the application.

16. Will my financial information be subject to the Open Records Act?

NO. Both the federal government and the State of Texas exempt all certification records from the open records act.