How To Become a CBP Agent: Job Requirements & Salary 2025

If you're interested in protecting national security and enforcing U.S. immigration laws, you may be wondering how to become a border patrol agent. These federal law enforcement officers play a critical role in monitoring the borders, stopping illegal activity, and ensuring the safe and lawful movement of people and goods into the country.

Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced fieldwork or the opportunity to serve your country, becoming a border patrol agent involves a structured hiring process, physical and academic training, and a commitment to public service. This guide outlines each step and what you can expect along the way.

What Is a CBP Agent?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents play a key role in national security as part of the Department of Homeland Security. Their job is to monitor and protect U.S. borders by preventing illegal activities such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. CBP agents also enforce immigration laws and facilitate lawful trade and travel.

There are two primary types of CBP agents: Border Patrol agents and CBP officers. Border Patrol agents typically work between official ports of entry, patrolling rural and remote border areas. CBP officers work at airports, seaports, and land crossings, inspecting cargo, travelers, and vehicles. Many agents hold degrees in criminal justice fields, which can prepare them for the legal, investigative, and tactical aspects of this federal law enforcement role.

What Does a CBP Agent Do?

CBP agents are responsible for securing the nation's borders and enforcing immigration and customs laws. Their daily tasks vary depending on their specific role, but all agents work to stop illegal activities and facilitate lawful entry into the U.S. At ports of entry, CBP officers inspect passengers, cargo, and vehicles, looking for contraband or documentation issues.

Border Patrol agents focus on areas between official entry points. They patrol on foot, in vehicles, or by horseback, often using surveillance equipment and drones. Both types of agents may conduct searches, make arrests, and respond to emergencies. Meeting border patrol job requirements often includes passing a background check, physical fitness test, and completing formal training through the CBP Academy.

How To Become a CBP Agent

If you're interested in protecting national security and enforcing immigration laws, becoming a CBP agent can be a rewarding career path. The process involves several steps, from meeting basic eligibility criteria to completing federal training. Whether you're applying to be a Border Patrol agent or a CBP officer, the steps below outline what you need to do to get started.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To qualify for a CBP agent position, you must meet several foundational criteria. You need to be a U.S. citizen and hold a valid driver's license. Applicants must also be under 40 years old at the time of appointment, although exceptions may apply for veterans and some federal employees. Additionally, candidates must pass a thorough background investigation, a drug screening, and a medical examination to ensure they're fit for duty.

Step 2: Apply Through USAJOBS

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to apply online through USAJOBS.gov, the federal government's official employment site. You will need to create a detailed federal resume that highlights your qualifications, work experience, and education. Unlike a standard resume, a federal resume often includes more specific information, such as hours worked per week and supervisor contact details.

Be sure to upload all required documents with your application. This typically includes transcripts, proof of citizenship, and, if you are a veteran, your DD-214 form. CBP accepts applications on a rolling basis, so applying early can help you move through the hiring process more quickly.

Step 3: Pass the Entrance Exam

After submitting your application, you will be scheduled to take an entrance exam based on the position you're pursuing. The CBP Officer Entrance Exam tests your skills in logical reasoning, basic arithmetic, and writing. This exam assesses your ability to think critically and communicate clearly, which are both essential skills for CBP officers.

If you are applying to become a Border Patrol agent, the exam includes a section on language aptitude or Spanish proficiency. You do not need to speak Spanish fluently to apply, but the exam will measure your potential to learn it. Free online practice tests and preparation guides are available and highly recommended to improve your performance.

Step 4: Complete the Background Investigation and Polygraph

To ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of all agents, CBP requires a comprehensive background investigation. This process includes fingerprinting and an in-person interview with a background investigator who will review your personal history, employment records, and any past legal issues.

Most applicants must also take a polygraph exam. The polygraph involves detailed questioning about your honesty, behavior, and overall suitability for a federal law enforcement position. Failing to fully disclose information or providing inconsistent answers can lead to disqualification, so it's important to be truthful throughout the process.

Step 5: Take the Fitness Test and Medical Exam

Physical and medical readiness are essential for CBP agents, so you must pass both a fitness test and a medical evaluation. The Physical Fitness Test (PFT-1) measures core strength and endurance through timed sit-ups, pushups, and a 1.5-mile run. These exercises reflect the physical demands agents may face in the field.

A separate medical exam checks your vision, hearing, and overall health to ensure you can safely perform your duties. Conditions that are unmanaged or may interfere with your ability to serve, such as certain heart problems or a history of drug use, may lead to disqualification. Being prepared and medically stable can help prevent delays in your application.

Step 6: Attend CBP Academy Training

If you pass all prior steps, you will receive an offer to attend formal training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC). This is where you will develop the skills needed for your role as a CBP agent. Training is rigorous and includes both classroom instruction and physical exercises.

CBP officers typically train for about 13 weeks, while Border Patrol agents undergo a 19-week program. Courses cover firearms handling, defensive tactics, immigration and customs law, and ethics. Border Patrol agents also receive Spanish language instruction to prepare for field communication. Graduation from the academy is required before beginning active duty.

CBP Agent Salary and Benefits

CBP agents receive competitive federal salaries based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. Most new agents begin at the GS-5 or GS-7 level, with starting salaries ranging from approximately $37,500 to $53,000. As agents gain experience and take on more responsibility, they can advance to GS-11 or GS-12 positions, where annual pay can exceed $70,000 to $90,000.

In addition to base pay, agents receive Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP), which adds 25% to their salary for unscheduled duty hours. CBP agents also qualify for federal employment benefits, including paid vacation and sick leave, retirement plans, life insurance, and comprehensive health coverage.

CBP Agent Career Outlook

CBP agents are consistently needed to protect national borders, making this a stable career path with opportunities across the country. Positions are available at land crossings, international airports, and seaports, with steady demand driven by trade, travel, and immigration enforcement needs.

Applicants who are bilingual or have military experience may receive preference during the hiring process. Once hired, agents can pursue specialized roles such as working in K-9 units, intelligence operations, or leadership positions. With experience, it's possible to advance into supervisory or management roles within the agency.

Fastest Way To Start a CBP Career

If you're looking to enter the CBP workforce quickly, there are several ways to speed up the process. Fast Track and Direct Hire announcements are posted when there is an urgent need for new agents, allowing selected applicants to bypass some of the typical wait times.

Veterans may qualify for special hiring pathways that offer priority processing and eligibility waivers. While a degree in criminal justice or homeland security is not required, it can strengthen your application and support long-term advancement. Students and recent graduates can also gain early experience through CBP internships or the federal Pathways Program, which offers structured entry-level roles within the agency.

FAQs About Becoming a CBP Agent

If you're considering a career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, you may have questions about the roles, requirements, and hiring process. Below are answers to common questions that can help you decide if this federal law enforcement career is the right fit.

What's the Difference Between a CBP Officer and a Border Patrol Agent?

CBP officers primarily work at ports of entry, such as airports, seaports, and border crossings, where they inspect people and goods entering the country. Border Patrol agents, on the other hand, patrol areas between official ports to detect and prevent unauthorized border crossings. Both roles enforce federal laws but operate in different environments.

How Long Does It Take To Become a CBP Agent?

The full process can take anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on hiring timelines, background checks, and training availability. Applying through Direct Hire or Fast Track announcements may shorten the wait.

Is a College Degree Required To Work for CBP?

A college degree is not required to become a CBP officer or Border Patrol agent. However, having a degree, especially in a related field like criminal justice, may help you qualify for higher pay grades and future promotions. If you want to earn a degree quickly, consider looking into the fastest criminal justice degrees online.

What Education Is Needed To Become a Border Patrol Agent?

While the minimum education requirement is a high school diploma or GED, having a college degree can boost your application. Fields like homeland security or criminal justice are especially relevant. If cost is a concern, there are many cheap criminal justice degrees that can help you save money while preparing for the role.

What Kind of Training Do CBP Agents Receive?

All CBP agents attend formal training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC). This includes courses in immigration law, firearms use, defensive tactics, ethics, and, especially for Border Patrol agents, Spanish language training. The training lasts 13 to 19 weeks, depending on your position.

Become a Border Patrol Agent

If you're ready to start your federal law enforcement career, explore CBP-related programs and degrees through Learn.org. You can find affordable education options and practical resources to help you meet hiring requirements and advance your career.