Customs brokers will be required to undergo continuing education as part of a new rule issue by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

According to CBP, requiring individual customs brokers to stay up to date with recent developments in customs and related laws, as well as international trade and supply chains, will lead to increased trade compliance.

In order to transact customs business on behalf of others, customs brokers must hold a valid customs broker’s license. Under the new education requirements, in order to keep that customs broker’s license in good standing, customs brokers must complete 36 hours of continuing education every three years.

The CBP’s definition of what training qualifies towards the 36 hours is broad. Some of the things listed in the Rule include attending webinars, seminars, conference, symposia, and trade events (virtual or in-person), and attending training sessions either employer-supplied or self-directed. Any training or education activity provided by the CBP itself or another government agency that is relevant to customs will qualify automatically. Other training activities may qualify as well, but must be approved beforehand.

Brokers who have voluntarily suspended their license in accordance with 19 CF 111.52 and those who have not held their license for an entire triennial period are exempt from the requirement.

Brokers must report their educational hours completed when submitting their triennial status reports, starting with the 2027 report. For the triennial report period between Feb. 1, 2024 and Jan. 31, 2027, the number of credits required will be reduced – more details will be announced in a future CBP notice.

Brokers will also have to maintain three years worth of records documenting their compliance with the education requirement.

Read the full Rule, Continuing Education for Licensed Customs Brokers, here.

To stay informed on trade news and other important updates, stay connected with a customs broker.