NCTRCA

1. Does it cost anything to be certified?

No, the initial and renewal certification processes are free.

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

The NCTRCA only requests documentation that will support the ownership, management, and controlling role of the disadvantaged/minority/women owners and key employees. You will find that the supporting documents are in line with the mainstream certification agencies through the nation.

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

Explain on a separate page why the information is not available or applicable. While the statement is beneficial to the initial processing of your file, it does not mean that this document will not be requested later on the review of your application. Some documents are required for the certification proceed.

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

The certification standards for the DBE program of the Agency are based on Title 49 CFR Part 26 and the guidelines of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration. Additionally, there are many differences in the requirements of certification from other agencies.

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

The NCTRCA will accept certification from other DOT certification agencies according to the federal regulations (49 CFR Part 26).

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. Simply contact the office at 817-640-0606 to schedule an appointment. 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 60 to 90 days. It is important to also note, that in some cases additional requests for information or site visits might be needed prior to awarding a certification.

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.  Also, additional information is requested throughout the certification process.  Therefore, please be prepared to submit additional documents once your file enters the final review phase. 

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.

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 indefinite, however a firm must provide an annual update form with documentation to the Agency annually during the month of the original certification.

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. Sixty days prior to the expiration date, the NCTRCA will notify the firm that a renewal certification affidavit is required. The renewal certification affidavit can be downloaded from www.nctrca.org.

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, email address or ownership. These changes must be submitted within 30-days of the change being made.

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.

17. How do I determine which certification is best for my company?

Attend one of the Agency’s Certification Workshops to get in depth information on the various certifications and how they can help your business.

18. If I am MBE or WBE certified am I automatically DBE certified?

No. You must apply for DBE or ACDBE certification. An application can be found on our website. See the link for the “Upgrade Process” to learn the requirements of a DBE certification once you are M/WBE certified.

19. I am an ethnic female owned business can I be classified as a WBE?

No. All ethnically female owned businesses will be classified as a MBE firm. Only firm’s owned by Caucasian females will be classified as WBE firms.

20. What is the TUCP?

The Texas Unified Certification Program is a reciprocal certification program established under the Federal Government which eliminates the repetitive certification requirement on business who choose to participate in multiple federal contracts. Each state has a UCP or Unified Certification Program in place. For more details on the TUCP partners go to the Links page and look for Texas Unified Certification Program.

21. How do I get recognized for HUB eligibility if I am a certified DBE with the NCTRCA?

You must submit a request in writing stating you would like to be submitted for HUB eligibility. Because the NCTRCA does not have a direct agreement with HUB all DBE firms which are submitted to TXDOT through our MOA must go through an additional eligibility requirement. This is done internally and submitted to TXDOT who will then submit the electronic record to HUB.

22. Once I receive my HUB certification how do I renew it?

You must maintain DBE certification with the NCTRCA. Additionally, you must request at the time of your annual renewal to be resubmitted for HUB eligibility.

23. What if I miss my first site visit appointment?

The NCTRCA staff will provide only two opportunities to conduct a site visit. If you miss your first appointment you should contact the specialist immediately to reschedule. Specialist conduct multiple site visits at a time in specific areas, therefore by missing your scheduled appointment you may have to wait an additional period of time before another can be scheduled.

24. If I am certified as a DBE with the NCTRCA do I have to get certified with any other TUCP partner?

NO. Your DBE certification with any one TUCP partner is valid throughout the state.

25. How do I add additional NAICS codes to my certification?

You must request the additional codes in writing. Include in your statement a detailed description of the service or product you are providing, 2-3 contracts and/or client references, and proof of any additional equipment/resources needed to provide the service or product. The Agency will review the information presented and re-evaluate your current certification. A site visit may be conducted.