MDHR Certification Requirements

Last updated: 2025-05-20

Workforce & Equal Pay Certificates

Ensuring equitable, non-discriminatory hiring and pay in Minnesota contracting.

Background

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights issues Workforce Certificates and Equal Pay Certificates to ensure compliance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act and pay equity laws for businesses contracting with state and local entities.

Both certificates are valid for four years and tie directly to your company’s compliance record.

Requirements

Workforce Certificate

40+ full-time employees in MN (or primary state).
Required for contracts >$100,000 (Minn. Stat. §363A.36).
Four-year validity + annual reporting.

Equal Pay Certificate

40+ full-time employees in MN (or primary state).
State contracts >$500K; capital projects >$1M (political subdivisions).
Four-year validity; some statutory exemptions.

Process

Download Application (PDF)
Compliance Plan Template (Word)
Submit docs + $250 payment confirmation to compliance.mdhr@state.mn.us.

Verify eligibility per requirements above.
Complete Online Application
Pay $250 and enter confirmation in the form.
Certificate issued within ~15 days of a complete submission.