The MBE certification number issued by OSMBA indicates both the minority classification code of the majority owner of the company, and the expiration date of the certificate. Certifications are for a five year period.
The MBE certification number issued by OSMBA has changed to a new format. It is now built from the year, with an incrementing number.
Example:
Certification number 2012059
The first four numbers is the year 2012
The next three numbers are incrementing 059
Firms bearing “05”, “06”, and “08” codes have been certified as a MBE by SC Department of Transportation or the US Small Business Administration prior to applying for OSMBA certification.
OSMBA entered into an agreement with the DOT in May
2012. Under this MOU, businesses certified by the DOT
that meet OSMBA requirements may receive the OSMBA
certification without going through an additional certification process.
SBA program has separate application processes and unique requirements. Certifications are not reciprocal.
Classification Codes
01 – African American Male Owner
02 – African American Female
03 – Caucasian Female
04 – Hispanic Male or Female
05 – A. A. Male or Female currently certified by SC DOT
06 – Caucasian Female currently certified by SC DOT
07 – Native American Male or Female
08 – Minority Owner currently certified by SBA
09 – Other (including Asian Pacific Americans)
