Guidelines for Conducting a Disparity and Availability Study for the Federal DBE Program

This report presents guidelines for state departments of transportation (DOTs) on how to conduct effective and legally defensible disparity and availability studies to meet the requirements of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program for federally funded projects. It includes guidance to assist DOTs in determining when and if a disparity or availability study is recommended, a model scope of work that can be used in a request for proposals, and detailed recommendations on how to design and implement disparity and availability studies. The report will serve as an invaluable resource for legal and contracting staff in all state transportation agencies.