Short answers, each with its source. Facts checked November 15, 2026 against CBP’s broker FAQ, Registration Information, the CBLE page and 19 CFR Part 111.
The exam
How much does the customs broker exam cost?
The exam fee is $390 per sitting, paid by credit or debit card in eCBP when you register (19 CFR 111.96(a)). If you pass, the license application costs $300 plus a $10 fingerprint fee. See what a license costs.
When is the next customs broker exam?
The next exam is expected on Wednesday, April 28, 2027, and the one after on Wednesday, October 27, 2027. CBP gives the exam on the fourth Wednesday of April and October (19 CFR 111.13(b)) and has not yet posted the 2027 dates. Registration opens about 10 weeks before. See 2027 dates.
How many questions are on the CBLE, and what score passes?
80 multiple-choice questions with four choices each, in 4.5 hours. You need 75%, which is 60 right answers (General CBLE Information).
Is the customs broker exam hard?
By pass rate, yes. CBP reported 12% passing in October 2025, 22% in April 2026 and 13% in October 2026, before appeals (CBLE page). The books are open, so most people who fail run short of time finding the answers. See pass rates for every sitting we could source.
Is the exam open book?
Yes. Electronic copies of the five CBP references are in the exam software, and you may also bring paper copies and any other paper material you find useful (Registration Information). Electronic material on your own device is not allowed. See which editions.
Can I take the customs broker exam online or remotely?
No. CBP’s FAQ says “The remote option is not available.” You sit it in person at a testing site; CBP listed 44 cities for October 2026. See what to bring.
Can I bring a calculator?
CBP’s list of items you may bring does not include a calculator, and it bans all electronic devices, including digital timers. Plan to do duty and fee arithmetic by hand. Practise it with our calculators, which show every step.
Who can take the customs broker exam?
A US citizen who is at least 18 and not an officer or employee of the US government on the exam date (19 CFR 111.13(b)). The rule asks for no degree or work experience.
Are past exams and answers available?
Yes. CBP publishes past exams with their answer keys and aims to post each new one within two weeks of the exam (past exams page). All six released since 2024, 480 questions, are worked here with CBP’s answer and the citation: past exams.
Results and retakes
When do I get my results?
CBP emails results letters within two to three weeks of the exam, to the address on your exam application (CBLE page).
Can I retake the customs broker exam?
Yes. Register again for a later sitting and pay the $390 fee again (CBP broker FAQ). A failing grade does not stop you sitting again (19 CFR 111.13(e)), and the regulation sets no limit on attempts.
Can I appeal a failing score?
Only if your score is 57, 58 or 59 out of 80, since the April 2026 exam. You may appeal up to four questions you answered, within 60 days of your results letter (How to Appeal). See appeals.
How long is a passing score good for?
Three years. You must apply for your license within 3 years of the issue date on your passing letter, or sit the exam again (19 CFR 111.11(a)(4) and the CBP broker FAQ).
Registration
Can I withdraw and get a refund?
Yes, in eCBP until 8:30 am Eastern two days before the exam. Refunds are generally processed within 45 days after the exam. Once you withdraw you cannot register again for the same exam, so do not withdraw to fix a typo; email brokermanagement@cbp.dhs.gov instead (Registration Information).
Can I get accommodations for a disability?
Yes. Answer “Yes” to the accommodations question on the eCBP exam application and describe what you need in the text box. Apply early: CBP does not consider requests submitted after registration closes (Registration Information).
After you pass
How do I get my customs broker license after passing?
Apply in eCBP on CBP Form 3124 with the $300 fee and a $10 fingerprint fee. You must be at least 21, a US citizen and of good moral character, and CBP runs a background investigation (19 CFR 111.11 and 111.12). Step by step: how to become a customs broker.
Do licensed brokers have to do continuing education?
Yes. Individual brokers certify continuing education with each triennial status report. For the report due by February 28, 2027, CBP says 20 hours earned from January 1, 2025 to January 31, 2027; the regulation’s general rule is 36 credits each triennial period (19 CFR 111.102). See triennial status report.
How many licensed customs brokers are there?
About 16,170 active licensed customs brokers, according to the CBP broker FAQ.