U.S. Customs Broker Exam

The CBP governs the imports and exports of the U.S.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency is responsible for protecting America's borders against illegal entry and governing international imports and exports. U.S.-based custom brokers act as liaisons between importers/exporters and the CBP, and must first pass the agency's Customs Brokers License Examination.

Eligibility

Any U.S citizens who is at least 21 years of age and currently not a federal government employee is eligible to apply for the licensing exam. Applicants must pay the $200 examination fee at least 30 days prior to the exam date.

Format

Exams are generally only held twice a year, on the first Monday in April and the first Monday in October. The 80-question multiple choice exam is open book and requires a passing score of 75 percent or better. Test takers who fail to achieve a passing score may appeal, but also have the option to retake the examination until they pass.

Time Frame

Test takers have four hours to complete the exam. After passing, broker candidates then have three years to apply for the actual custom brokers license. However, licensing applications can take eight to 12 months to process, so candidates should get their requests in as soon as possible.

References

• Customs and Border Patrol: Becoming a Customs Broker