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.
Example:
Certification number 0723451209
The first two numbers indicate the classification code. This particular number indicates that the majority owner is a Native American male or female.
The last four numbers indicate the month and year the certification expires. The above certification number indicates an expiration date of the twelfth month, December, of the year 2009. All certifications expire the last day of their respective certification anniversary month.
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, SC DOT and SBA’s certification programs are independent of each other. Award of MBE certification by one of these organizations does not result in an automatic certification by any of the other programs. Each 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)
