Customs agents examine luggage and investigate shipments of goods, ships, aircraft, and other vehicles for contraband that individuals attempt to smuggle into the country.

Customs agents work undercover and perform searches and seizures. They usually work on rotating shifts, since airports are open late, and borders and ports are open all the time.
Process How to Become A Customs Agent

Requirements and Qualifications

Prospective customs agents must meet eligibility requirements, including:

Be a minimum of 21 years of age
Claim the US as a primary residence both currently and for the previous three years
Hold US citizenship
Pass physical and written exams
Submit to a background check and a drug test
Successfully complete an interview

Customs agents should also have a bachelor’s degree.

Prospective customs agents with a bachelor’s degree may be hired at the GS-5 level while those with a graduate degree may be hired at the GS-7 level.

Customs Agent Training

New customs agents attend 15 weeks of training at the US Customs and Border Protection Academy of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia.

Training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on exercises in such areas as inspection techniques and firearms.

Job Titles for this Career

Customs and border patrol agent
Customs officer