Becoming a Customs Agent: How to become a Customs Agent

Customs agents are seeing more and more responsibilities because of terrorism surveillance and changing immigration policies. In order to become a customs agent, you will need to have a some educational experience, be a U.S. citizen, and be at least twenty years old. Some may also be required to have relevant job experience.

Top Schools Offering Customs Agent Degree Programs:

The links below will allow you to request free enrollment information directly from top national schools that offer a Customs Agent degree program:

1.
University of Phoenix - The most widely recognized online criminal justice college in the world, UofP offers accredited criminal justice degrees for almost every career goal.
2.
Capella University - Capella University Online’s top ranked criminal justice job placement stats make it a top choice for career-oriented criminal justice students.
3.
Kaplan University - The wide variety of criminal justice courses and flexible time schedules make Kaplan University a top rated criminal justice school for working adults needing a flexible learning schedule.


Degree Requirements to become a Customs Agent:

Degrees relevant to a career as a customs agent include criminal justice and international affairs. Topics like the Constitution, money laundering, smuggling, narcotics, child pornography and fraud will be covered in these classes and will be a part of everyday work for a customs agent. A bachelor’s degree is required for lower level customs agents, and at least one year of graduate education is required for higher level employees. In addition to educational experience, customs agents need to prove that they are in good standing physically, as they need to be alert and in good shape in order to be as vigilant as possible.

Duties of a Customs Agent: What are the duties / traits of a successful Customs Agent?

Customs agents are in charge of inspecting the luggage, clothing and transportation systems taken by visitors to the United States and citizens returning from a visit abroad. Evaluating these items may include weighing or measuring cargo, counting luggage or looking for drugs and other illegal items. At times, customs agents may also have to arrest and question suspects.

Customs Agent Salary: How much does a Customs Agent make?

Depending on your assigned level, you could make between $28,349 and $45,648 per year.

Find a Criminal Justice School Near You