Why this matters to trucking and paving firms
Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued its latest “Department’s List of Prequalified Vendors,” the roster that determines who can bid as a prime or participate as a first‑tier subcontractor on VDOT‑administered highway work. For carriers with paving, milling, grading, or specialized construction divisions—and for fleets that team with road builders—prequalification status directly affects which projects you can pursue and at what level. The newest list is dated Wednesday, November 5, 2025, and reflects all qualified levels as of that date.
What’s in the newest list
The PDF runs hundreds of pages, showing each firm’s prequalification level, expiration date, work classes (for example, asphalt paving, grading, drainage structures), business contact and whether the firm is certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). As one example relevant to our readers, J. C. Joyce Trucking and Paving Company, Inc. is listed as “Prequalified,” with an expiration date of June 30, 2026, and work classes that include grading, asphalt concrete paving, and drainage structures.
VDOT notes that this list is the official certification notice and that it is updated weekly—on Wednesdays by 10 a.m.—so contractors and partners should check it frequently when planning bids or assembling teams.
Prequalification basics, in plain language
- Who must be prequalified: VDOT requires prequalification to submit a bid as a prime and also requires it for first‑tier subcontractors unless the contract states otherwise. Notably for our audience, the first‑tier requirement does not apply to certain specialty items and to haulers, suppliers, manufacturers, engineers and consultants referenced in VDOT’s specifications.
- Levels you’ll see: VDOT designates levels including Prequalified, Probationary, Conditional and Subcontractor Only. Your level can affect whether you may bid as a prime and may limit the dollar amount you are allowed to bid without a waiver.
- Timing matters: VDOT says to apply at least 60 calendar days before you want to bid or start work, and the department notes reviews may take up to 60 days. Build that lead time into your estimating calendar.
- Expiration and renewals: Prequalification terms do not exceed one year and expire based on the first letter of the company name (for example, “J” firms renew in June). Keep your renewal current to avoid disruptions in bidding.
- Waivers: For firms listed as Probationary, Conditional, or Subcontractor Only, VDOT allows project‑specific waiver requests with evidence of capability. Those must be submitted before the letting.
DBE flags on the list—what they mean for teaming
The prequalified list also identifies whether a company is certified as a DBE. While many entries read “N/A,” others show DBE types, which can help primes meet contract goals and diversify their teams. The federal DBE program—administered under 49 CFR Part 26 and continued under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—aims to ensure nondiscrimination in the award of USDOT‑assisted contracts and to help DBE firms compete successfully. When you’re assembling bid teams, use the list to identify qualified partners who also help you meet DBE commitments.
Action steps for Virginia fleets and owner‑operators
- Verify your status today: Confirm your company’s level and expiration on the Nov. 5 list and calendar your renewal window accordingly. Remember the list refreshes on Wednesdays.
- Mind the 60‑day clock: If you plan to bid late winter or spring work, get applications or renewals in now to avoid missing letting dates.
- Leverage work classes: Make sure the work classes you’re prequalified for match what you intend to perform—milling, asphalt paving, drainage, traffic control—so you’re visible to primes building teams.
- Use DBE information strategically: Identify DBE‑certified partners early and document your outreach and commitments for federally assisted projects.
- Know the exceptions: If you operate primarily as a hauler supporting highway projects, note that first‑tier subcontractor prequalification requirements do not apply to haulers under VDOT rules; align your compliance steps accordingly.
Bottom line: VDOT’s latest list, current as of November 5, 2025, is your go‑to reference for who can bid and perform on state‑administered highway work. Align your prequalification level, renewal timing, and teaming strategy now to stay competitive through the winter letting season and into the 2026 construction year.
Sources Consulted: Virginia Department of Transportation; Federal Highway Administration; Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance.
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