The border patrol is looking for applicants who are dedicated to protecting our country. Do you know what the qualifications are for becoming an agent? How about what will be expected of you? Before applying to the U.S. Border Patrol, educate yourself about the criteria as well as what is expected from you as an agent.

There are many potential threats that need to be prevented. At the top of the list are terrorists and terrorist weapons. They must not enter our country and it is the job of the border patrol to make sure that does not happen. Preventing unlawful entry into the U.S. is also crucial. Whether it is apprehending undocumented aliens or those who are attempting to smuggle them in, it is a violation of our immigration laws.

What are the qualifications for applicants?

You must be under the age of 40, however, there are exceptions.

You must be a resident as well as a citizen of the U.S.

You will need to speak Spanish or have the capability of learning the language. This is where the artificial language test comes in.

Your background must be clean.
- You will need to be physically fit and meet medical requirements.

What is expected of you?

If you are hired, you will need to complete and pass the 55-day basic academy training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico.

The training you receive will include Spanish language, physical fitness training, marksmanship, driving off-road and federal nationality and immigration laws.

If you are one of those that needs to learn Spanish, there will be 40 more days required for this instruction.

You must be willing and able to work any overtime and shift work under difficult conditions.

You need to be skilled in the use of a firearm.

You will be expected to pass random drug tests.

There is the possibility that you could be re-assigned, permanently, to another duty location or be sent on a temporary assignment on short notice.

However, every agent will begin their career along the Southwest border.