A CBP (Customs and Border Protection) Officer is a federal law enforcement officer working for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security. CBP Officers serve as the first line of defense at the nation’s borders, ports of entry, airports, and seaports. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Preventing terrorist intrusion by identifying high-risk individuals attempting to enter the United States.
- Stopping criminal activities such as drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, human trafficking, and money laundering by inspecting vehicles, cargo, and individuals.
- Enforcing immigration, customs, and agriculture laws.
- Conducting searches, seizures, arrests, and serving warrants.
- Collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to maintain national security.
CBP Officers undergo extensive training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, learning law enforcement skills, immigration and customs laws, drug and contraband detection, and other relevant areas. They have the authority to carry firearms and perform full law enforcement duties both on and off duty. The position is considered critical-sensitive, requiring a thorough background check, physical fitness test, and passing various exams. These officers play a crucial role in protecting national security, facilitating lawful trade and travel, and preventing illegal activities at over 300 ports of entry and along the U.S. borders.
