Customs Broker Exam in the USA: What It Is and How to Prepare

Who is a customs broker?

A customs broker is a professional who assists companies in transporting goods across borders. They handle all matters related to customs clearance. The main role of the specialist is to ensure that goods pass through customs legally and without complications.

To work as a customs broker in the USA, one must pass an exam called the Customs Broker License Examination (CBLE). After successfully passing the exam, the candidate receives a customs broker license and can perform their duties. In this article, we will discuss what this exam entails and how to prepare for it.

Responsibilities of a Broker in the USA

The duties performed by a professional customs broker include:

• Collection, verification, and preparation of documents for customs clearance of cargo. This is a critical process that determines the success of goods passing through the border.
• Determination of customs tariff classification for goods in accordance with the Harmonized System (HS) of Description and Coding of Goods. Accurate classification impacts the amount of duties and fees to be paid.
• Calculation of duties and taxes. The intermediary must be familiar with all current tariffs and exemptions to ensure accurate calculations.
• Representation of clients' interests before customs authorities and ensuring compliance with the law.
• Interaction with clients to provide information on the status of cargo clearance, legislative changes, and other arising issues.

To avoid any issues with cargo at customs, it is important to work with a professional customs broker.

Requirements for Candidates

Candidates must meet several criteria to be eligible for the exam:

• Be a citizen of the USA;
• Be over 18 years old;
• Pass a background check for any criminal history;
• Submit an application to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during a specific period announced in the Federal Register.

Additionally, candidates must pay an exam fee, which is determined according to established tariffs.

Detailed Exam Instructions for Customs Broker License

Preparing for the Exam: Key Steps and Recommendations

Exam preparation is a crucial stage for successfully obtaining a customs broker license. Let's take a closer look at each step.

1. Studying the Program: Before starting preparation, candidates must thoroughly study the CBLE exam program. It includes various aspects of customs brokerage activities: customs laws and regulations, tariffs, classification of goods, and more.
2. Finding Information: There are many educational materials available for preparation, such as textbooks, study guides, online courses, video tutorials, and practice tests. Candidates can use these resources to better understand the material and engage in practical learning.
3. Test Preparation: During preparation, it is helpful to use practice tests and simulation exams. This will help candidates become familiar with the exam format, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and prepare for real exam conditions.
4. Participation in Preparatory Courses and Group Sessions: Some candidates may join preparatory courses or group sessions, where they can receive additional explanations and support from other candidates or instructors.

Proper organization of preparation and systematic study of the material will help candidates maximize their readiness for the exam and achieve success.

Previous exam tasks can be found on the CBP website.

Exam Process

CBLE is held twice a year: in spring and fall. This year, the exam will take place on May 1st. Registration closes on March 21st. If you fail the exam on the first attempt, you have the opportunity to try again. The exam consists of two parts:

• A test covering a wide range of topics related to customs clearance of goods and customs procedures;
• Questions that assess candidates' ability to analyze and apply customs rules in practical situations. In this part, candidates must provide detailed answers to each question.

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After successfully passing the exam, candidates must complete the licensing process: submit the necessary documents to obtain the license, provide a bond, and fulfill additional requirements established by CBP.

How to Register as a Broker in the USA

To legally engage in brokerage activities, it is necessary to:

• Obtain a broker license by submitting an application to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
• Pass an exam to confirm knowledge of customs laws and procedures. The exam is conducted in English and covers a wide range of topics, including product classification, duty calculation, and rules of origin.
• Undergo a background check to verify reliability and absence of a criminal record.
• Enter into an agreement with a surety company to cover potential financial obligations to the government.
• Pay the state fee according to the established tariffs.

After obtaining the license, the specialist can legally carry out their activities, representing the interests of their clients before customs authorities.

Who Can Help With Customs Brokerage Services in the USA

If you do not have your own customs broker, contact DiFFreight Company for assistance. We provide comprehensive international logistics services, including warehousing, consolidation, and sea and air delivery to the USA. Delegate logistics to professionals to focus more on developing your business. With us, your international shipments will be carried out efficiently and without interruptions.