Update concerning the PDF - electronic HTS and CFR on the broker exam computer

Interesting. Even CBP officially recommends that you get hard copies of the CFR and HTS. Quote directly from the CBP CBLE exam site: “CBP highly recommends that CBLE candidates have paper copies of the references available during the exam. “

Students report problems with the PDF search function during the exam. Not all students, but the search issues seem to be random by location. Also, some remote students complained about getting kicked out of the exam computer and having to wait for help to re-enter the system. there seems to be an issue with the PDF search function on the exam computers. I estimate at least 80% of my students chose to use hard copies. Students who communicated with me after the exam were happy they did. Why? First, the exam computer is a single screen. Meaning when you access the PDF of the HTS or CFR, it blocks the screen and you cannot see the actual question anymore. Yes, you can kind of manipulate the box on the screen, but you end up with smaller print. THATS not perfect if you are trying to see the question while referring back to the HTS or CFR. Additionally, some students find that the search function is not perfect if you use a two word or three word search term.

Working in association with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Campus

I am proud to announce that we will continue providing our study guide / written materials, and access to our student website to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) broker exam course. UTRGV provides the teacher. Hats off to the students in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) campus Broker Course. Over the last several years, we have been fortunate to provide our materials and online tools to several large companies and a major university. Further testament to the quality of our program and what we can give to each individual student. (6.7.24)

A quick primer on the basics of becoming a Customs Broker

What is a Customs Broker?

A broker helps companies or individuals clear goods and import goods into the United States. In order to work as a Customs Broker, a person must a license from Customs and Border Protection. All brokers are regulated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assist importers and exporters in meeting any Federal requirements to import or export goods.  Customs Brokers submit necessary data, information, and payments to CBP on behalf of their clients. A broker charges a fee for this service. A Customs Broker can be an individual or a company licensed to be a broker.

How do I become a Customs Broker?

First, only US citizens can get the license. You must be 21 years old, be of good moral character, NOT a US Government employee, and pass a Customs Broker Exam. You must sign up and pass the exam first, then apply to CBP for the license. There is no college degree or work experience required. CBP has a new webpage dedicated to Customs Broker FAQs. Check it out.

What do I need to know about the Customs Broker Exam?

To be eligible to take the examination the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, age 18 or older, and they cannot be employed by the federal government at the time of the examination date. An application to take the exam must be submitted electronically at least 30 calendar days prior to the scheduled examination date and costs $390. According to CBP, the purpose of the exam “is to determine the individual’s knowledge of Customs and related laws, regulations and procedures, bookkeeping, accounting, and all other appropriate matters, necessary to render valuable service to importers and exporters.” In short the exam covers the CBP regulations, the harmonized tariff schedule, and other matters determined by CBP to be tested.

What does The Customs Broker Exam Prep Course (CBPrepcourse) do?

We help people prepare for the exam. The exam is hard. We have over 20 years of getting people ready for the exam. We have the best tools and course available. We offer online courses as well as live seminars, regular homework, flashcards, a killer online test center that looks and works just like the official test. Please check out what we have to offer as well as our student testimonials. And, of course, call me if you have any questions. Tom O’Leary 512-441-9941

Time to Get ready for the October 2024 Customs Broker Exam

Two of the most common questions I get from new students is how much time to study each week and how many months do I need to study for the Customs Broker exam. I recommend 4 to 5 months of study. Slow, consistent, and steady pays off. But as to how much time to study each week - that varies. I tell all my students to start with more time than they think is needed. We can always back off… but catching up is harder to do. And, I have never had a student call me after an exam and tell me - “Tom - I studied too much”. I have not got that call yet! So, remember, slow, consistent, and steady pays off.

We want our students to try to start during December and January if possible to get ready for the April Customs Broker Exam. And, starting in May and June is great for the October exam.

What if I start a little later? That’s OK, our course is set up to take you when you register… not a specific deadline. We have students that start at various times through out the year.

CBP Broker exam - CBLE - October 2024 Exam Announcement - NOT YET!!!

My best guess is that CBP will use the 2023 CFR and the 2024 HTS. Yes, I could be wrong, but lets see. CBP should issue the exam announcement in June sometime. Also, I am guessing CBP will keep Parts 200 to end of the regulations on the exam. I kind of nailed that one for my students. I assumed CBP would test the same thing they tested in 2015 to 2017… and they did!