Customs and Border Protection Officers inspect people, baggage, and cargo at U.S. borders and ports of entry. You enforce laws, identify security risks, and make decisions that protect the country. You can start with a high school diploma and on-the-job training.
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Customs and Border Protection Officers work at borders and ports, examining travelers and shipments to enforce federal laws. You inspect documents, question people, and search baggage and vehicles for prohibited items. You use computers to access databases and verify information. You identify suspicious patterns and evaluate whether people and goods comply with regulations. You communicate findings to supervisors and write detailed reports. The work requires critical thinking to spot inconsistencies and active listening to gather information from travelers and colleagues.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Customs and Border Protection Officers earn a median of $76,210 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 53,700 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You need a high school diploma or equivalent to apply. The role is classified as Job Zone 3, meaning medium preparation through work experience and training. Most candidates complete a federal application process and background investigation. Once hired, you receive on-the-job training and instruction in law, security procedures, and inspection techniques. You'll learn to use agency systems and develop the decision-making skills the role demands. Some positions may have additional requirements based on the specific border location or port.
Entry routes include direct federal hiring and competitive civil service pathways. If you're exploring whether this career fits your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the customs and border protection officer path that fits you to map out your next steps with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a customs and border protection officer, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable following procedures and regulations. You think critically about information, listen carefully, and communicate clearly. You prefer structured environments where rules matter and your decisions have real consequences.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).