The department provides an Electronic Bidding System (EBS) for bidders to use in the submission of bids via the Internet. The EBS software does not perform estimating functions. In order to begin bidding electronically with the department there are three initial steps listed below that must be completed.

Digital certificate

A digital certificate issued by the department is needed in order to sign an electronic bid. Complete Form 2196 to request the issuance of a digital certificate. Click on http://www.txdot.gov/txdot_library/consultants_contractors/forms/contractors.htm to access copy of the form. Digital certificates are provided at no cost.

EBS software

Download and install the Contractors Desktop Application (CDA). Click on the following link https://exvt.exevision.com/txdot/v1.001/Setup-CDA.exe and click run to install the application. In addition to the CDA application software, the microsoft.net framework and Crystal Reports Basic will be installed. The CDA contains a help menu that can be accessed to aid in setting up and using the software. The EBS software is provided at no cost.

Note: Installing the CDA for the first time may take several minutes.

Electronic Bonding

Bidding electronically requires the use of an electronic bid bond. Paper bid bonds and checks cannot be used as bid guaranties on electronic bids submitted via the Internet. You will need to work through your surety agent to get set up with one of the two electronic bond clearinghouses, Surety 2000 (1-800-660-3263) or Surepath (1-818-783-3460). These two companies will handle the electronic bonding process with you and your agent.

Note: The initial setup of the electronic bonding process takes time, as much as a week in most cases. Please keep this mind when preparing to submit an electronic bid for the first time. Also, the bond clearinghouse companies do charge a fee for their service.

Before submitting an electronic bid for the first time, we recommend that you read the Standard Specification and current Special Provisions to Item 2, "Instructions to Bidders." The specifications will outline the requirements for submitting an electronic bid.

For assistance with the electronic bidding setup process, contact us at (512) 416-2540.