FAQ

Customs Broker License Exam Preparation Program

About the Customs Broker License Exam
Q: What is the Customs Broker License Examination?
A: The Customs Broker License Exam is an open book/open test with 80 multiple-choice questions based on designated editions of:
-The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)
-Title 19, Code of Federal Regulations
-Specified Customs Directives
-Customs and Trade Automated Interface Requirements document (CATAIR)

Q: How long is the Customs Broker License Exam?
A: You have four hours to complete the Customs Broker Exam.

Q: Where and when is the Customs Broker Exam given?
A: The Customs Broker exam is normally given at CBP service ports the first Monday in April and the first Monday in October.

The appropriate CBP port director must receive the examination application and $200 fee at least 30 days in advance of the Customs Broker examination date.

Q: What must applicants take to the Customs Broker Examination site?
A: Each applicant is responsible for bringing proof of registration, a picture identification, and the recommended reference materials to the examination.

Q: Must I be a U.S. citizen to take Customs Broker exam?
A: No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to take this examination. But you must be a U.S. citizen to apply for a Customs Broker License. Your passing score is valid for 3 years, giving you a 3 year window to become a citizen for the license.

Q: What is a passing score to pass the Customs Broker Exam?
A: A passing score is 75 percent or better is required to pass the Customs Broker Exam

Q: What if I fail the Customs Broker examination?
A: You may retake the examination until you pass. You are also entitled to submit an appeal of your examination score to CBP in accordance with 19 CFR 111.13(f)

Applying for a Customs Broker License
Q: When may I apply?
A: Assuming you are eligible, you may apply after you pass the Customs Broker License Examination.

Q: How long after passing the examination can I wait to apply for a Customs Broker License?
A: You must apply to a CBP port director within three years of the date of the letter notifying you that you passed the Customs Broker License Exam.

Q: What are the fees for a Customs Broker License application?
A: There is a $200 application fee (plus a fingerprint check and processing fee).

Q: Where do I apply?
A: Apply to the port where you want to transact Customs business as a broker.

About the career
Q: What is the outlook for importing and Customs Brokers?
US imports more than export. The difference between exports and imports is measured by our Trade Deficit, $711.6 Billion Dollars. As importing continues to grow, so does opportunity for Customs Brokers, who hold the highest professional degree recognized in the industry

U.S. import trade has grown by over 130% in the past 10 years. The value of imports has grown from 8% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to over 20% in the past 20 years. The value of imports coming into the U.S. is more than $1.4 trillion, resulting in 29.6 million trade entries.