CBP Officer – US Customs and Border Protection Officer Career
One of the Department of Homeland Security’s more complex components, US Customs and Border Protection has a mission to keep terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the United States. CBP Officers are tasked with enforcing hundreds of U.S. regulations including drug and immigration laws and for facilitating trade and travel at the same time.
CBP Officers screen all visitors and cargo that enter the U.S. at over 300 land, air and sea ports. By land, sea and air, Officers prevent narcotics, agricultural pests and smuggled goods from entering the U.S.
CBP Officer Requirements
To apply for a position as a Customs and Border Patrol Officer, you must be a U.S. citizen and must be under 40 years of age at time of appointment. The age limit does not apply to those claiming veteran’s preference in the hiring process.
Applicants must pass a medical examination, fitness assessment, drug test and a thorough background investigation. Your fitness level must allow physical duties in harsh environments on some occasions.
CBP Officers deal extensively with the public which makes people skills an important hiring consideration. Applicants should be patient, cool tempered and exercise thoughtful judgment.
Spanish is a requirement. Applicants fluent in Spanish must pass a language test while those who require training in the language will be tested for their ability to learn languages.
US Customs and Border Protection Education and Training
The CBP has one of the most rigorous training programs in the country in Artesia, NM. For 55 days trainees receive instruction in federal law enforcement and border patrol operations. Courses include Immigration and Nationality Law, Criminal Law and Statutory Authority, Spanish, Border Patrol Operations, Care and Use of Firearms, and Anti-Terrorism.
In addition, there are Federal Law Enforcement Center (FLETC) courses in communications, ethics and conduct, report writing, fingerprinting, Constitutional law and computer technology.
Training continues during the one year trial period after a new hire is assigned to a duty station. Examinations are given after completion of 6-1/2 to 10 months of service. Failure to attain a passing grade of 70% is grounds for separation. Throughout the trial year, trainees are rated by Supervisory Agents on their suitability for Federal employment.
Trainees who are not proficient in Spanish will complete an additional 8 weeks of Spanish language training following completion of the basic training period. To continue as a Customs & Border Protection Officer, new officers are required to pass a series of Spanish tests after joining their duty station.
CBP Officer Salary
Depending on qualifications, including prior education, entry level is at Grade GL-5, GL-7 or GL-9 with promotion possible after completion of the 6 ½ month probationary examination. Base starting salaries range from $36,658 to $46,542 with the opportunity for a significant amount of overtime pay.
You are eligible for the Federal Government benefits package and also receive a uniform allowance of $1500 annually.
Customs and Border Career Opportunities
Almost 52,000 CBP employees guard 7,000 miles of land border the U.S. shared with Mexico and Canada and 2,000 miles of Florida coastal waters. In addition, the CBP partners with the U.S. Coast Guard to protect 95,000 miles of maritime border.
CBP Officers protect America’s borders at official ports of entry. They pre-screen shipping containers at major seaports to facilitate legitimate trade while stopping high risk shipments.
Officers monitor boarding the U.S. bound flights originating from major foreign airports to prevent criminal aliens from arriving in the U.S. and offer training on U.S. entry requirements.
As a CBP Officer you will also be protecting U.S. businesses from theft of intellectual property and unfair trade practices, collecting import duties and protecting U.S. agricultural resources with inspections at ports of entry.
Take a look at other great Criminal Justice Careers.
{ 145 comments… read them below or add one }
When will they start hiring for CBP Officer or Border Patrol.
Nearly all government agencies hire when there’s a true need for new recruits or in the beginning of each calendar year. Keep track of the CBP website for job postings.
Hello Radek:
I applied for the position of Agricultural Specialist 3 or 4 years ago. I was rejected due to financial issues (background check), at this time I was getting divorce, and had to pay my lawyer, and therefore, I stop paying some bills. I did pass everything else, but this was the only issue that stop me from being hired. I re-apply again on June 2011, and I got the notification letter that I was selected for the GS-9 position. Today I am doing good, I was able to finance my home, buy a car, and paying my bills on time, I even get credit cards offers, but I reject them. My question is if my past rejection due to financial issues could affect me again to be hired for this position?
Thank you!!
Sergio, yes your finances, especially those poorly managed, can bite you back when obtaining a law enforcement position. As for the CBP Officer career, I’m not familiar with the way things work in terms of reapplying. If there’s someone here more qualified please reply.
CBP is hiring now.
WHEN THE CBP OR THE BORDER PATROL IS GOING TO HIRING FOR 2010?
You can visit: http://www.cbp.gov for more info.
I passed the CBP exam and have received multiple e-mails regarding my score. The last e-mail I received was slightly different because it included a page that allows me to update my information. Do you think I would be receiving an application packet shortly?
Not too sure. It could go either way. They may need the info update to get you going through the app process OR to keep your app on file with the most current data for later consideration.
I am interested in the CBP career, but I am over the required age limit. I read the requirements for CBP on-line and it stated the the age limit does not apply to those claiming veteran’s preference in the hiring process.
It this correct?
As of today’s date, that’s correct! Everything is subject to change, so I would get in touch with the local office for information in your particular case.
i would like to know what degree is better in criminal justice in order to become a CBP officer, also is it better to go straight to a 4-year university or a community college.
I think a Bachelor’s degree is a better choice over a community college (2 year degree). Criminal Justice, Political Science, and Criminology are great choices in my opinion, but other degrees can also be of value.
You do not really have to go to a university to be a cbp officer, entry level requires at least of 3 years of work experience, but if you go to college, a degree is helpful in future promotion. But it does not guarantee a spot for any agency. Remember when you are applying for a agency and take a test, see it as a “competition” where everyone around you has a bachelors degree or work experience.
I was intrested in becoming a cbp officer and I currently work for TSA. I had trouble in the past taking the cbp test and passing them, I was wondering if they had a prepartion class for the test.
Hi Maxine,
I’m studying to take the CBP Officer test. Right now they are not hiring, however, I’m still studying. I truly believe if you do the same as I am in taking advantage of the time given until the next testing you will do fine.
Never give up on your dream. From what I see it’s a great job!
i was wondering if i could instead go to the army to get my training can i do that??
so in 6 1/2 months you’ll be ready for duty?? or what?
I am about to start my second semester in college and hope to become a cbp officer. I want to major i sociology but wanted to know if that’s a wise choice. Also do cbp officers need prior experiance? such as a police officer or military background?
i applied and passed the border patrol exam and i want to know if i can also apply for the Customs, how would that work out?
I have a question about the border patrol exam. I took the exam on october 2010 if there any exceptions to retake the test before the twelve months. Thank you Greg.
If you do not pass the test, you have to wait a complete calender year from the time you REGISTERED, NOT FROM THE TIME YOU TOOK THE TEST, to be eligible to retake the border patrol test.
I took the exam an passed it a couple of years ago, but from what i remember i was over the age limit. I recently read the application process and saw that the age limit was under 40. Is that correct, when did this change occur?
Looking through their site, I found the requirement to be under the age of 37 NOT 40. I’ve seen this number for many years now. It’s the “magic” number in law enforcement related federal jobs. If an agency increases their age limit, it would only be done to select from a larger pool of applicants.
You’re right that 37 is the magic number for most federal LE jobs, but agencies can up that number based on their hiring needs. Border Patrol hires until the age of 40.
Hi,im not a U.s citizen but a 26yrs old Nigerian and in a couple of months from now i will have my degree in social studies because im a final year student in a university.But it has been my dream to serve under the United State govt homeland security.I came across CBP on the net,and i wish to become of the CBP officers that will guide and protect any of the United State seaports of entry.If there is opportunity for me,all i need to do is to get a visa on my passport and come to the United states and face the CBP test,exams,training,and so on that make to be recruited.Thanks
You still need a U.S. Citizenship.
Bro. Join NDLEA in Nigeria. Your country has the highest volume of drug smugglers out of Africa. Join Nigerian Customs; they need good people like you. LOL.
Hi, I work as a Part Time Regular for USPS (Postal Service) from 8/2007, bilingual and BA. I will like to apply to a CBP Officer. Can I transfer from USPS to CBP Officer or I have to apply like everybody else? Can I apply for another federal job when I still work for USPS? I want to make sure, before I apply for another job. Thanks
You’ll probably have to apply separately, as this is a law enforcement position. However, your present Federal employment status “may” help + your time served (in relation to your pension) should transfer without a hitch. Also, your benefits, as a CBP Officer, will be a little different since it’s a law enforcement position.
As for the second question, I don’t see why not? Unless you’re a contract employee, I think mostly everyone would agree that it’s normal to look for new career options “when the right time comes.”
What materials can be used to study for the CBP officer exam. Is there a specific book that I can purchase or website that I can get more study information?
Thank you
Yes yes yes. Its a border patrol exam book from learning express 4th edition. Its an awesome book and will help you greatly. Go to amazon or borders and you should find it. 19.95 a book.
Hi I’m 18 yrs old, I’m still in HS, this is my last year I’ll graduate on June 4th 2010 and I would like to work in the Border Patrol BUT on the “Checkpoint” at San Antonio,TX. What do I need to do ?? What subjects do I need to take in order to be working there??? How many years of college??? is it good 2 years degree???
When it comes to YOU initially picking your station, you better be one of the best candidates. This includes schooling, as well as, great physical performance and mental health. Even then you’re not guaranteed that spot. Classes in Criminal Justice, Transnational Crime, Human Trafficking, Sociology, Psychology, and any other classes that might have anything to do with your career choice are good. It’s good to have an Associate’s degree, but even better to have a Bachelor’s.
Here’s the minimum requirement from the CBP.gov website based on Experience or Education:
I hope this helps you decide. Good luck.
Hello Radek:
I applied for the position of Agricultural Specialist 3 or 4 years ago. I was rejected due to financial issues (background check), at this time I was getting divorce, and had to pay my lawyer, and therefore, I stop paying some bills. I did pass everything else, but this was the only issue that stop me from being hired. I re-apply again on June 2011, and I got the notification letter that I was selected for the GS-9 position. Today I am doing good, I was able to finance my home, buy a car, and paying my bills on time, I even get credit cards offers, but I reject them. My question is if my past rejection due to financial issues could affect me again to be hired for this position?
Thank you!!
Hate to sound like a downer but the San Antonio station is a “retirement” station for the Border Patrol i.e, they don’t send newbies there and you’ll need at least 15 years on the job before even being considered a transfer to that station.
Hello everyone. Just want to share that i received an email saying that i have to report for CBP officer position exam at a place. Exam lasts approx 4 to 5 hours. I have downloaded the study guide for preparation. Now , i have a question. Do i make a good candidate? i have a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and several years of part time job experience and one of the jobs required me to have a firearm(gun shop) and i also speak perfect Spanish. Do i qualify easily for a entry level GS 5?
and btw this question is for Radek, how long does it takes from Gs 5 pay grade to a promotion of gs 7? and other future promotions.
You should meet the qualification requirements based on what you are telling us.
As for questions directed to me, it’s probably better directed at those that work there. I would assume that there’s a waiting period before you can be considered for GS7 promotion (I don’t think it’s too long). From what I remember it’s not that long. In the end, the total chance of getting promoted may depend a lot on your performance and the time spent at the current GS level.
I would love for someone in the CBP or Federal Law Enforcement to chime in.
Good luck kike85
I have the exam in a week, I downloaded the sample test available online.. If I start practicing the S.A.T. book, would that help? I am also fluent in Arabic, Spanish, & basic Korean language.. Have H.S. diploma & 10 years of working experience no College.. would I be a good candidate? Thanks
Bro, study the material they give you over the site.. Get the learning express border patrol exam 4th edition. The logical reasoning is different from SAT questions. You should study bro. A lot of people fail because they dont study thinking the test is a walk in the park when it is not!
To SamSam,
Really, i don’t think you need to study the SAT book. I am pretty sure that the exam is basic knowledge. Check you email, in that email i believe they provide you a study guide like a .PDF file on a link. It is like 25 pages. Basic math that includes fractions (+ – x and / ) and percentage comes too (this one is always a pain)
really, i dont think its science. but, -this is what i think it will have.
Im taking the Border and custom protection officer exam on 12/10/2010 for Michigan. How long does it take them to get back too you when you pass? I am very interested in this and hope I make through? I am a Vet so I get the 5 point preference and I am 37 yrs old but that will not affect me because of my vet status. I know the CBP is hurting for candidates and just wanted to know how long is the process?
I took my CBPO test at COBO in Detroit on Dec 12th. I got my NOR today. I am a 10 Point vet. scored a 91.
Hey bro. I just got my NOR back and got an 81 for gs-5 and Gs-7 5 vet points included. I am hearing that vets go first then everybody else? I talked to some guys that work for ICE up here in Detroit and told me that was true. I am kinda pissed I scored an 81 but its above average and I passed. I was told we will get a call but just have to wait. The reason other people may not be getting a call because they may not be vets? Good luck and God Bless.
Hi, I am on my way with the Border Patrol I am currently waiting word on when I will take my PFT2 I have passed everything else though I received a letter congratulating me on passing PFT1 and advising to prepare for second part what I would like to do though is work for Customs instead both jobs are awesome but would prefer customs is there any way of transferring my process or anything like that please help with this thanks.
There isn’t. The CBPO and the BPA hiring process are two completely different animals and I’d recommend waiting for the CBPO position if that is what you’d prefer.
I can no longer find the vacancy announcement. I wanted to verify is this a GS or a GL positions? As I am already a GL-6/2 with DOJ.
CBP Officer position is GS. General Services.
I just took the CBP exam yesterday, and all I can think is how I had a difficult time with the math portion of it. I had to guess the last five, because lack of time. Did anyone else find it somewhat difficult? Also, how long until they get back to us after taking the exam??
I recently got laid off from a fire fighting job I had for 15 years. I took the test and passed it with an 87%. I haven’t heard anything since, does anyone know what a “good” score is on the test?
I have heard of a lot of people getting 95-98 range some 100% and with veteran preference or veteran disability they get well over 100% I had a guy who took it 3 years ago in my test he got a 93 last time and never got picked up so was trying to improve his score
What website can I go to, to make an appointment for the test to become a cbp officer?
Is there some place to retrieve the CBP test results for December 2010 electronically? I have not yet received anything by mail.
USAJOBS app manager
Will they be opening up applications in 2011 for border patrol or cbp officer?
I just got my Notification of Results today with my rating listed as 97, hoping to hear something about a selection letter soon.
I talked to one of my friends here in Detroit who happens to be CBPO. He said that his union received a letter stating that no hiring will occur for at least a year.. He was confused because they are really short handed.. I am in for the long haul.
I took my test about a two months ago, and I took it with my friend, and she already received her test results. She did not pass, and up too date I haven’t received my result. I only received a summary e-mail about a week after taking my test, telling me what to do if I passed or not. I was wondering if there’s a number or a website to check my status?
Yes. Call 1-612-467-7027 Ext 2
i took it Dec 8th 2010 and i still haven’t received an email or notice. and i think i did really good in that test. probably had trouble with only 2 or 3 questions. sucks. i really want this job.
I took the test on the 5th of Dec. and I received an email titled “Notice of Results” on the 1st of Feb. Maybe you’ll receive it soon?
The email is a bit confusing to understand, which is our score? Is it the rating under grade?
Hi i have a question about the border patrol exam. I took the exam on october 2010 but i didnt pass. i was a 37 years old now i am 38 so when i am going to apply again in october i qualify or i am to old? I saw that the age limit is before your 40 birthday that’s correct?
The age limit is 40. If you are a vet it doesnt apply
Got a 98 on this but I’m not going to hold my breath, I really want the position but I imagine once they do start hiring, they will hire for the southwest region.
I got my test results for a cbp officer Jan 25, 2011, and I got a rating of 85. When do you think I will hear for the next step in the interview process? Also I live in the south in new orleans…
It is a long process, expect months to maybe a year or two, patience is key, the quickest thing you hear is to conduct a fitness and medical and then it takes (again) months to a year or so. Patience
hi i am 25 years old.. i was a manager at a car wash for 5 years so i have clerical or office experience plus customer service experience. i will like to become a cbp? what do i have to study or what bachelors do i need.. or what job experience do i need..?
check cbp.gov occasionally, or create profile with usajobs.gov, click search agents and when there is a opening, you will be notified via email. 3 years work experience is qualifying at entry level, any 4 year degree is qualifying at entry level. 3.0 GPA or higher is slightly higher salary at entry level. Regardless, you have to take a 4-5 hour test, you pass, it may take a 1 or 2 b4 you get hired (if you pass everything, medical, fitness, interview, VBT, background, credit, etc) Therefore, create a profile at usajobs.gov, and check cbp.gov daily, and under career section, you learn more.
Great advice, Ken!
I applied for CBP last August for Arizona. All of my stuff is already done from a previous application, but I had to reapply for other reasons. I scored a 91 on the exam plus I have 10 veteran preference points. The last time I called and asked which was about the beginning of February I was told not to call back and the Minneapolis hiring center will call me because there were thousands in front of me. Now the way they explained it was the veterans preference points dont really put you at the top of the stack. Which with all my requirements done except the PFT1&2 I believe it. However shouldn’t it put you at the top of the stack with the different acts the government has put in play for “disabled Vets”? Is the Minneapolis Hiring Center hiring the way they have been ordered to by law? I have many questions and concerns regarding this issue.
Reason you had to re-apply is because they changed the test and some issues in the hiring process, including now mandatory Video based testing, there’s now about 25,000 applicants nation-wide and just expect that it is going to be a long while before you hear anything. Just important to stay out of trouble and be a professional, with a score of 91, you are in the pool rank for sure, but the hiring process WILL take about 1-2 years, don’t stress it and just live your life, check email on a weekly basis.
Scores came via email Jan 25th, got a 99 rating for GS-5/7 (5 point vet preference included), listed Newark as my preference. Wonder if or when someone will call.
It will be a while. It took me over 2 years from the date I took the test and finally got hired. Heard some guys were on the lost for 4 years. So just plan as if it’s not gonna happen soon.
Tom is right, don’t plan for anytime soon that you are going to get hired. Process takes 1-2 years to get hired. Just live your life and you may (or may not) get a call for a long while. But do check your email on a weekly basis at least.
the hiring process WILL take about 1-2 years, don’t stress it and just live your life, check email on a weekly basis. about 25,000 applicants are currently being filtered out nation-wide and just expect that it is going to be a long while before you hear anything. Just important to stay out of trouble and be a professional. with a score of yours, I believe that your in good shape, as stated earlier, don’t expect anytime soon, process is long. . . .. very long. . . .
I passed the pft2 and have an academy date, and will be reporting in soon. I recently got a speeding ticket. Will this affect my employment with CBP? Will it affect my 1 year probation?
Not necessary, depends on case by case basis, you learn in your ethics class that you do have to report anything that happens to you (including a speeding ticket) but since you are a pre-hire, I suggest you get it taken care A.S.A.P. before it comes and bites you in the behind. Remember you are a professional, at work, outside of work, and of course, before work. So just take care of this issue A.S.A.P.
Does anyone know if CBP will offer an applicant a position at a port that wasn’t their selected port or is the applicant pigeon-holed to that ONE port? I applied and took the CBPO test back in Nov (I am currently a Border Patrol Agent) and was somewhat miffed that it only allowed one location selection because there are about 20 different ports that I’d be thrilled to work out of.
If I made a 81 on the cbpo test will I be selected and when
I’d recommend retaking the CBPO exam. Rumor has it that you need to score at least a 90 to even land on the radar these days for CBPO/USBP.
Not true, I scored an 80 on the test, I am in the mid-final states of pre-employment – background check, potential polygraph test.
im 19 and im really interested in becoming a cbp officer but i don’t have the kind of money to be able to attend a good college or university to earn my bachelors, the best i can do right now is get my associates in criminal justice at a community college that isn’t really ranked so high in California but thats what i can afford.. i heard that if they were to see where i got my degrees they would just take one look at it and toss it to the trash.. my plan was to get my 2year degree and become a police officer/sheriff/or tsa for experience and then transfer to cbp officer or border patrol agent..but im not sure how good that plan may be so bottom line i just want some advice on what i should do in this situation or if my plan was any good?? pleas help
Hey, Torres don’t worry, you have a year to get your stuff together, believe it or not a lot of law enforcement value field or work experience as much,if not more than a degree, so I suggest you get a job if you don’t already have one and keep going to school, apply to multiple departments around you 20th birthday because you need to be 21 on the day of appointment at most, and use these departments and their experience as your stepping stones. Good luck!
To become a CBP Officer you have to be 18 and not 21. 21 YOA only applied to state, county and local PD departments.
Could i still be hired if i failed one of the events in my physical like the step test. I missed like one minute.
i completed the G-5 form correct i know i did i was just wondering what does the quals cutoff date mean??? this is in the TO packet by the way.
In order to determine your qualifications for the Border Patrol Agent position, I need you to complete the attached forms. If you previously completed these forms, the information you provided was too brief and/or was not fully completed, or was after the quals cutoff date of 9/30/10
Can u re-take the cbpo test if u passed. To get a better score
Check your spam for letters guys! A lot of my friends and I emails during the hiring process ended up in spam. Yes they will still hire you if you score in the 80s, no they will not make exceptions under a year to retake the test, yes all components of the pft1 need to be passed for further consideration. It is a Federal job and they want and need the best of the best. Good luck everyone! Females work extra hard because their fitness standards are the same for both sexes, unlike say the military.
I passed the test with a rank of 89. I would like to re-take the test and score higher. Can i do that or do i have to wait a given amount of time before i can re-test?
if you take the CBPO test and passed and are now in the pre-employment process but you are pregnant due at the end of july and your first fitness test is in july as well, will your offer be dropped completely or could they hold off on the physical test for like 30 days?
I took the cbpo a few months ago (back in march’11) and received a nor email within 2 weeks. I passed with a 82. Since then, I’ve received several emails including packet 1, packet 2, and e-qip. All which needed to be completed and submitted within ten days of email deliverance. I am a veteran and do possess a secret clearance.I’m also fluent in spanish and currently 9 classes away from attaining an associates degree(Criminal Justice). My question is, is it possible for mhc to be processing my application based on the need for cbpo’s? or bc of my qualifications?
Just seems that everything is being expedited (so far).. Is this normal? Doesn’t seem like everyone is getting the same feedback.
I am currently working for TSA, but I’m over the age limit-37. I know the age limit for border patrol is 40 and for CBP is 37. I sent an e-mail to a BP recruiter, but the response was not helpful. Does anybody know where can I get information about it?
I think you just answered ur own question
hi guys,
i am new to this site, had a quick question on the CBP Officer exam i will be taking on july 25th. I was looking through there logic reasoning in the CBP Test prep packet online and i notice most of the questions just ask you to figure out the conclusion. I wanted to know for the exam, do they ask questions of the same type or is there any assumption questions ?
would appreciate any help
D
Yes the questions are similar in style. Study that packet, especially the math section. That was the hardest for me on the test. Lots of word problems.
Hello,
I will be taking the CBP officer exam on July 20th and have some questions. Besides the study guide, is there a book that I can buy to study? What is the passing score? For the credit check, is there is minimum credit score you need to have to pass? Would appreciate your help.
Nancy
I am a 17 year old high school graduate am i eligible for a job position with the CBP? Do i have to do any college time? What is the percentage of getting a job soon in the state of Florida? Thanks for taking time to answer my questions!
To be employed with CBP you have to be at least 18 yoa when you apply for the position other wise they will not consider you. Florida has some of the biggest sea ports in the United States so it is very probable that they need many CPB Officer there. It just a matter of choice where you want to work, Airports or Seaports. They will give you a choice.
do you have a choice of where you want to work for CBP. See I live in chicago but I am from New York City. I would like to know if where is a good chance that I will be able to work CBP at one of the airport in Chicago, IL. I work at the Airport and I do see a lot of CBP officers working at the airport that I work at. Plz get back to me
One of the good thing about the modern CBP is that they WILL let you make a choice where you want to be stationed. They will make their best effort to place you the closest possible to where you want to work and reside.
I have done everything including my background check. The BI investigator said it was sent to adjudication. How long does it take for them to contact you after that?
Hi
I took the exam on oct. 2010. Had passed interview, medical & fit test and background investigation. Does anybody knows what comes next? I had a master’s degree and qualified for grade 7. What are my chances?
If you already went though all those requirements, dont be surprised if you are called within the next month or so. Sounds like you already took care of the hiring process. It should not be long before you leave to the academy.
I was told there is a good book to study for CBP made by the U. S. Marshals that has all the information that is on the test. My question is, what is the name of that book? Or what is another good study guide to be sure I pass the test with a high score?
There is a very good study guide out there that can help you get a good score on this test. “Customs and Border Protection Officer (Career Examination Passbooks)”. You can find it in major book stores or in Amazon.com for about $80-40 US. A little pricy but worth it if you wanna pass the exam.
Hi, all!
I took the CBPO exam last month and got my results. I passed with a score of 81. I have no veterans preference points, but according to the guidelines, I qualify for what they called “superior academic achievement”. Can anybody tell me what I should realistically expect about my chances of getting hired? It seems like they’re kind of slim based on other posts here. Also, they sent my results via e-mail and asked me to send them any changes to my contact information. I know it says it takes 3-4 weeks to process, but should I have gotten some sort of confirmation e-mail that they received the response? I sent them an e-mail asking that but they never responded to that either. Any help would be much appreciated!
Thank you,
Joe
Just email them again, it takes them about 2-3 days to respond on a good day. The line is long, so meanwhile just keep on working and keep on looking for other jobs. Depending on the location you applied for, it could take years, I know of a co-worker that applied to San Francisco CBP and he waited 4 years to hear back from them; meanwhile every year he had to retake the physical tests and such. Once you start the application process, you don’t have to take the written exam again, however if you already done the physical tests and such, you do have to retake them (they expire in each year).
Thanks! I actually just got a response from them today saying that I am active in the inventory. I’m just crossing my fingers that I eventually receive the TS letter. I applied to the Southwest location; it said there were many vacancies available, so I guess I look at that as a good thing.
Hi I was looking for information about the us customs officer basic training. How different is it from boot camp in the military, does anyone know? And anyone have a idea on what Spanish words/vocab etc I should be studying to help myself out for the test?
for the spanish portion, according to their website it says that even people who think they are fluent in spanish find the test difficult, so most people tend to just go with the spanish courses and are just based on their ability to learn the language.
Why can’t you be older than 40 years old to be a CBP officer?
because retirement is after 20 years, and u can’t be older than 57. so 57 – 20 = 37, making 37 yrs old the cut off age. seems like a random age to me, but thats what they have written on their page.
Hey guys,
Just wanted to know how long does it take them to call you after they have just finished a background investigation. I already passed all the exams and just finished meeting with my investigator this week. I have a bachelors degree and currently work as a teacher. I really hope I get the job. Good luck friends!
I took the exam a year ago in October (passed 98% +5pt vet). Since then, I have taken and passed the Medical Exam, PFT1, Oral Interview and Urinalysis. I have received a “Conditional Offer of Employment” at the GL-7 level. My Back Ground Investigation was completed last month (Sept 2001). I am still waiting on the results from that. I am in the accelerated hiring process, due to my combat time. Anyone have any idea how much longer it should be until I hear something? Thanks.
so i took the exam on sept 3, and received the NOR on the 23rd. is it normal to get the results this fast? i was expecting to have to wait at least until october. it says my rating is 100, and i didn’t have veterans preference. is that my score? I’ve always been good at taking exams, especially when they are pretty generic exams, but i didn’t think i did THAT well.. so I’m just wondering to make sure I’m not reading the NOR wrong.
I would like to know how do I apply to take the CBP exam? I do live in New York City so would this affect me from taking the CBP exam? I don’t have no college credits or even go to college can I still become a CBP officer? My last question is I want to be in law enforcement period, so I am looking to take police test that don’t nasally need college does anyone know where in new york or outside NY? Thanks
Go to usajobs.gov and check for customs and border patrol officer in the search. It will show you in what areas of the country they are hiring. You do not need to have gone to college nor do you need any college knowledge to pass the exam, but it helps in the sense of having test taking skills and basic math knowledge.. But other than that the answers are found in the question. I found the exam easy, but they do have a study guide to help you understand the types of questions they ask. It’s VERY helpful. If they are hiring in your area you will most likely take the exam in your area. I had to fly out to Atlanta for my exam -_- but that’s cuz that was the only area available when I applied.
ok i’m a former BPA who resigned for family matters and moved back to miami, I took the CBPO test back in 12/2010, and passed with a 96, my friend scored below me but starts the academy now on Oct 14th, we both have the same security clearances and BI done with our current job but I had to go through a vetting process, that headquarters is still doing apparently since Feb 2011. My question is does anyone know how long this process takes, and/or whom i can contact to get an update,
thanks
Please contact the Minneapolis hiring center.
Hey everyone,
I took the Border Patrol Exam in Nov 2010 and passed with a 77. I haven’t received anything other than a Notice of Results. I then took the Customs and Border Patrol Exam in Aug 2011 and got an 80. Do you guys think I need to retake the exams to get a better score? I am not a veteran and already have my associate’s degree in criminal justice. I would rather be a Customs Agent than a Border Patrol Agent. Please advise on what I should do. Thank you.
I would suggest you take the examination again as the “cut off” scores are very high for OBPA. There is an announcement open on usajobs.gov until 10/27/11.
Please note that the USAJOBS website has changed.
http://www.usajobs.gov is the new address.
CBPO “cut off” scores also start very high, so when an announcement is open again I would suggest you re-apply.
Good luck and be safe.
Hey everyone,
I just received the results for my CBP written test. I got an 80. Is that a good score? because I feel like i needed 95+ to be considered for a job offer…
Please let me know!
Sara
You may want to test again, when you are able too. The cut off for the first round usually starts in th 90s. However 80 is a good score, but the MHC may not get to you immediately.
Hello all,
Just a quick question or two for anyone who may be able to assist. I am currently a BP agent, I tested for the CBPO position in 12/2010 and have a mid to upper 90′s score. I was told my file is in Washington D.C. and that I am being vetted as all current DHS employees have to go through this process. My file has been there since 05/2011 and I haven’t heard a thing. All MHC will tell me is that they have no idea what is going on and how Washington handles things. Any thoughts? Secondly, I was just reviewing my info. on the application manager website for this position during which I found a discrepancy. The website shows that I said I have had drug usage in the past 37-72 months. This is not the case, and I know that I did not answer the question that way. When I called MHC, they advised they could not change it and that I must have answered the question that way and will have to explain it later. My concern is that this is holding up my process. Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance.
Hey I’ve applied to Customs back in November of 2010. I’ve completed everything besides the drug test. My background, Qualifications, and drug test has been pending for several months now. This is a long process so be patient everyone.
If you receive an offer to start the academy with customs are you required to take it or can you pass and stay active to be selected for a future vacancy?
You can delay about 2/3 weeks. If you pass the offer, they will put you at the bottom of the hiring list. So, take the offer or take the test again.
short and simple. i did not pass my bp exam, am devastated with the news.
*gasps*
what exactly does “rating: IA” mean?
by the looks of it i got a low LOW grade. :/
this is going to be a long year
What is the CBPO pre-academy? Three months pre-academy, four months FLETC, and two months Spanish classes.
Is there any way to go around taking the Physical fitness exam?
No my friend. You have to be physically fit. You represent the country before all foreign people. You have to arrest violators of immigration and customs laws. You can’t let them out run you. LOL.
How strict are they on credit back ground. Will they disqualify for bad credit? How much debt are we talking about? I am about 1000 dollars in debt to collections but plan to fix it. Also when they send your score, is the 10 point veteran preference not added at that time or do they give you the score you will receive once the points are added? Oh and does spouse credit background come into play with investigation? I thank anyone who may have some feed back.
I have seen people with bankruptcy got hired with proper explanation. You should try to fix it before the back ground investigation. Yes your spouse credit is also important. If you can’t keep your family finances in check how can you hold a position of public trust?
I checked my CASS and seen I have a green check-mark next to the fitness portion, but my medical says still pending. How long do you have to wait for clearance or notification on the medical?
Does anyone here know any CBP Officers? I’m seeking retired and former CBP Officers for our Border Management Task Force Program. Pays $190+K Annually!!! If you know of anyone, Call Me Now-”A.J.”571.289.0564
Yes, there are referral bonuses!!!
Where can I find the books used at the Border Patrol Academy to start studying before going to the Academy?
Can someone tell me if a bachelors degree obtained in another country ( Mexico ) valid? My wife would like to apply to become an custom officer. She worked several years as Mexican custom agent and is now working for a private export company here in the states. She’s got around 12 years or so experience in export / import matters.
Thanks!
Im going through my background check with CBP. My wife’s family is from Mexico and have proper citizenship. They do not know we are married. My question is will CBP request to contact them?
Hello everyone, I have the same question as David H, I also obtained my bachelor´s degree in Mexico, but I´m a US citizen, I was born in the US but lived almost all my life with my parents in Mexico cause they had their jobs back there and were really never interested in living in the US. So now I´m 23 years old and looking for a job. I recently graduated and got my bachelors degree and I´m really interested in working for the CBP. I think its a great job. I used to live in a border town so both my English and Spanish are excellent. My question is, in my situation is it possible for me to get into the CBP? Hope anyone of you can answer my question.. thanks in advance..
You have to evaluate your foreign degree from a govt. approved company, such as WES.org. You will need that report when you submit your paper work. Good luck.
I have completed my written med/physical exam and also sent College transcripts. Currently I hold a AA and BS Degree in Criminal Justice. Tommorow I have my VBT exam hopefully that clears and my drug test and background clears. With hard work and dedication everything is possible.
Ken, J.Magliocco, Mike Hansen and other helpful individuals, have taken the liberty to post something informative or answer many questions here.
Please take care to read the post and the comments before posting further questions. In all likelihood, you’ll find your answers there.
Saying that, we welcome other questions, and always, helpful tips.
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I congratulate you Radek for providing everyone with an excellent and informative site. In addition, we are all connected in one way or another locally, and nationally because for those who are studying criminal justice. We become productive, pro-active, public servants in whatever field, institution, job position and agency we choose.
How do I know if my work experience qualifies me for G-5 ?? I was a warehouse supervisor for three years, and then promoted to Warehouse Office Manager for the last two years… Which is less hands on and more paperwork…. any help
What about a military disqualification??? Will that be taken in consideration???
How long after passing the CBP Exam do you attend the training camp program?
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