Dear Industry Partners, Prime Contractors, Trade Associations, Advocacy Organizations, and Stakeholders:

On March 2, 2026, Caltrans, in collaboration with our California Unified Certification Program (CUCP) partners, initiated the statewide reevaluation process for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) certifications. As part of this effort, notices were sent to all certified firms outlining the steps required to submit the necessary supporting information for reevaluation.

Firms have 45 calendar days (until April 16, 2026) to submit their:

• Personal Narrative
• Personal Net Worth (PNW) Statement
• Required supporting documentation

This process is essential to ensure that firms meet the updated eligibility criteria for ongoing participation in the DBE and ACDBE programs.

Why This Matters to Industry

The DBE Program is foundational to delivering transportation projects that reflect fairness, opportunity, and strong competition. This reevaluation ensures compliance with updated federal requirements and to maintain the integrity, transparency, and credibility of the program. This reevaluation process:

• Supports uninterrupted eligibility when certification activities restart
• Allows Caltrans and industry to resume goal setting, counting, and reporting processes upon federal approval, and
• Supports stability in the construction and professional services marketplace

Call to Action for Industry Leaders

Through your leadership and outreach, firms can be better equipped to stay engaged and address reevaluation requirements. 

We respectfully ask you to: 1.

1. Encourage certified DBE and ACDBE firms in your networks to act immediately to submit reevaluation documents.
2. Remind firms not to delay their submittal and plan well before the April 16 deadline.
3. Share available technical assistance resources with your members.
4. Help reinforce the importance of maintaining active certification status.

Timely and complete responses from certified firms help ensure continuity for ongoing and future contracts. This collective effort promotes continued involvement and supports the advancement of vital transportation projects across California.

Technical Assistance Available

Guidance materials, tools, and webinars have been developed to help firms understand the updated federal framework and accurately complete their submissions. Firms may contact:

• Email: DBE.Reevaluation@dot.ca.gov
• Website & Resources:  https://dot.ca.gov/programs/civil-rights/dbe-reevaluation (Includes tools, guidance documents, and webinar information.)

Caltrans is committed to administering this process fairly, efficiently, and transparently. We value our partnership with industry and appreciate your support in reinforcing the importance of timely participation.

Together, we can ensure a smooth transition, maintain program stability, and continue advancing opport economy. Thank you for your continued collaboration.

Sincerely,

DINA A. EL-TAWANSY
Director 

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