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