The Border Patrol Academy
Understanding the training process at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy is crucial for those pursuing a career in federal law enforcement. This page provides educational information to help applicants better prepare for the academy experience, including physical fitness expectations, curriculum structure, and essential training components.
To further assist applicants, we recommend visiting the United States Border Patrol Applicant's sub-Reddit, an independent platform where individuals can share experiences, ask questions, and find additional insights into the hiring process.
HonorFirst.com is working toward 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as an educational resource dedicated to preserving the history of the U.S. Border Patrol and providing information to help applicants navigate the hiring process. While we strive to ensure accuracy, policies and procedures may change. For the most up-to-date information, applicants should consult official CBP resources at www.cbp.gov/careers.
Page Updated - February 1, 2025
To further assist applicants, we recommend visiting the United States Border Patrol Applicant's sub-Reddit, an independent platform where individuals can share experiences, ask questions, and find additional insights into the hiring process.
HonorFirst.com is working toward 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as an educational resource dedicated to preserving the history of the U.S. Border Patrol and providing information to help applicants navigate the hiring process. While we strive to ensure accuracy, policies and procedures may change. For the most up-to-date information, applicants should consult official CBP resources at www.cbp.gov/careers.
Page Updated - February 1, 2025
USBP Academy Statistics for 2023
Basic Academy for United States Border Patrol Agents Overview:
Border Patrol Processing Coordinator (BPPC) Highlights:
Disclaimer: These statistics reflect 2023 training data and are provided for informational purposes. Training numbers may vary each year based on hiring needs, funding, and policy changes. For the most up-to-date information, applicants should refer to official CBP resources at www.cbp.gov/careers.
- Classes Graduated: A total of 22 classes successfully completed their training at the basic academy.
- New Agents: Proudly welcomed 777 new agents into the force.
- Gender Breakdown: Of these, 689 were male and 85 were female.
- Training Hours: Agents underwent a rigorous training program totaling 20,592 hours.
- Training Days: This comprehensive training spanned across 2,574 days.
Border Patrol Processing Coordinator (BPPC) Highlights:
- Classes Graduated: Successfully graduated 19 classes from both Artesia and Charleston locations.
- New BPPCs: A total of 734 new Border Patrol Processing Coordinators joined the team.
- Gender Breakdown: Achieved a balanced intake with 372 males and 362 females.
- Training Hours: Coordinators completed 5,472 hours of specialized training.
- Training Days: Their training extended over 684 days, ensuring proficiency and readiness.
Disclaimer: These statistics reflect 2023 training data and are provided for informational purposes. Training numbers may vary each year based on hiring needs, funding, and policy changes. For the most up-to-date information, applicants should refer to official CBP resources at www.cbp.gov/careers.
Explore the U.S. Border Patrol Academy Through Video
Disclaimer: The following videos are sourced from external platforms, primarily the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) YouTube channel. HonorFirst does not produce, control, or endorse the content of these videos. They are provided here for informational and educational purposes to assist applicants in understanding the Border Patrol Academy experience.
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Are you ready for one of the greatest challenges of your life? The United States Border Patrol Academy is recognized as one of the most difficult and challenging law enforcement academies in the world. To graduate from the demanding 6-month academy, all new hires must pass practical and written tests in driving, firearms, Spanish, and physical techniques. If you are ready for a rewarding career dedicated to protecting our country, apply now at www.cbp.gov/careers
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It's the test of their lifetime at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico. The training is exhausting both physically and mentally. CBS 4 Reporter Sydney Hernandez was given rare access inside the training facility and reports first hand what it takes to be responsible to secure our borders.
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If you’re interested in becoming a Border Patrol Agent, it’s important that you’re prepared to attend the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico. It’s here that new recruits learn the physical, technical, and mental skills they’ll need on the job. This video breaks down what you need to know about preparing to attend the academy, what you'll learn while you're there, life at the academy, and next steps after graduating.
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Are you ready for one of the greatest challenges of your life? The United States Border Patrol Academy is recognized as one of the most difficult and challenging law enforcement academies in the world. To graduate from the demanding 6-month academy, all new hires must pass practical and written tests in driving, firearms, Spanish, and physical techniques. If you are ready for a rewarding career dedicated to protecting our country, apply now at www.cbp.gov/careers
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As a Border Patrol Agent, you will attend training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico. As a part of your training, you will be required to speak and understand Spanish. This video provides an overview of the Spanish requirement, the approach to learning at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy, and helpful resources to kickstart your journey.
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Q: What is the Academy like?
A: The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is a structured, intensive training program designed to prepare new agents for the demands of the job. While it is not as physically rigorous as military boot camp, it is mentally and physically challenging. Trainees must learn key law enforcement skills, including Spanish, immigration law, firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, and driving techniques.
Trainees should expect a rigorous academic curriculum, requiring strong study habits. Those who are not already fluent in Spanish will undergo specialized language training to ensure they can communicate effectively in the field.
Physical fitness is essential. The Academy includes structured physical training (PT) sessions, and trainees are expected to meet established fitness standards. Those who arrive physically unprepared may struggle. Trainees are strongly encouraged to begin a fitness program before reporting to ensure they can meet endurance and strength requirements.
The Academy provides lodging, meals, and structured training schedules. While trainees have personal time in the evenings, academic demands, physical training, and study requirements take priority. The training program is designed to be challenging but achievable for those who are prepared and committed to completing the process.
A: The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is a structured, intensive training program designed to prepare new agents for the demands of the job. While it is not as physically rigorous as military boot camp, it is mentally and physically challenging. Trainees must learn key law enforcement skills, including Spanish, immigration law, firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, and driving techniques.
Trainees should expect a rigorous academic curriculum, requiring strong study habits. Those who are not already fluent in Spanish will undergo specialized language training to ensure they can communicate effectively in the field.
Physical fitness is essential. The Academy includes structured physical training (PT) sessions, and trainees are expected to meet established fitness standards. Those who arrive physically unprepared may struggle. Trainees are strongly encouraged to begin a fitness program before reporting to ensure they can meet endurance and strength requirements.
The Academy provides lodging, meals, and structured training schedules. While trainees have personal time in the evenings, academic demands, physical training, and study requirements take priority. The training program is designed to be challenging but achievable for those who are prepared and committed to completing the process.
Q: Is email and internet access available to students at the Academy?
A: Yes, trainees have access to the internet while at the Academy. Computers with internet access are available in designated student areas for research, coursework, and personal use.
Additionally, there is a commercial internet provider available for purchase, offering wireless service that can be used in dorm rooms. Trainees who bring personal laptops can also access the internet through their own Internet Service Provider (ISP) using a local Artesia, NM phone number or a toll-free number provided by their ISP.
Reliable communication is essential, but trainees should balance screen time with their training responsibilities. Given the demanding schedule, internet use should primarily support academic and professional development.
A: Yes, trainees have access to the internet while at the Academy. Computers with internet access are available in designated student areas for research, coursework, and personal use.
Additionally, there is a commercial internet provider available for purchase, offering wireless service that can be used in dorm rooms. Trainees who bring personal laptops can also access the internet through their own Internet Service Provider (ISP) using a local Artesia, NM phone number or a toll-free number provided by their ISP.
Reliable communication is essential, but trainees should balance screen time with their training responsibilities. Given the demanding schedule, internet use should primarily support academic and professional development.
Q: Where in the world is Artesia, NM?
A: Artesia is located in southeastern New Mexico, approximately 40 miles south of Roswell—famous for its UFO lore—and 25 miles north of Carlsbad, home to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is situated within the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, a facility dedicated to training law enforcement personnel from various federal agencies. Despite its small-town atmosphere, Artesia provides trainees with essential amenities and is within driving distance of notable attractions for those with available free time.
A: Artesia is located in southeastern New Mexico, approximately 40 miles south of Roswell—famous for its UFO lore—and 25 miles north of Carlsbad, home to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is situated within the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, a facility dedicated to training law enforcement personnel from various federal agencies. Despite its small-town atmosphere, Artesia provides trainees with essential amenities and is within driving distance of notable attractions for those with available free time.
Q: I am a little concerned about the PT at the Academy. Should I be?
A: Yes, physical training (PT) is an essential component of the Border Patrol Academy, and recruits should prepare before arriving. While not as intense as military boot camp, the PT program is demanding and requires a high level of endurance, strength, and mental resilience.
Trainees will participate in PT sessions multiple times per week, gradually increasing in intensity. Sessions typically involve running, push-ups, sit-ups, core exercises, defensive tactics, and obstacle courses. Running endurance is critical, as recruits will need to complete a 1.5-mile run in 13 minutes or less, along with additional endurance-based exercises.
To prepare, it is highly recommended that applicants establish a consistent fitness routine that includes:
Many trainees who struggle with PT at the Academy were not adequately prepared before arrival. It is far better to enter the Academy in peak condition rather than risk remedial PT, injuries, or potential failure. Mental toughness is equally important—training will be physically demanding, and recruits must push through discomfort to succeed.
Q: Do I get paid while at the Academy?
A: Yes, trainees receive full pay while attending the Border Patrol Academy. The salary is based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale and depends on the grade level at which the trainee was hired (GS-5, GS-7, or GS-9).
In addition to base pay, trainees receive a small daily per diem (approximately $5) to cover incidental expenses. Food, lodging, and training materials are fully provided at no cost to the trainee.
Q: What should I wear while awaiting uniforms at the Academy?
A: Trainees are expected to wear clean, neat, and conservative attire while awaiting the issuance of official uniforms. Shirts must have a collar, and jeans are prohibited for on-duty wear. Business-casual trousers, such as Dockers-style pants, are preferred. Suits and ties are not required.
Currently, generic uniforms are issued for temporary use until official Border Patrol uniforms are provided.
Q: Will we get any time off between the Academy and our duty station?
A: Yes, trainees will have the opportunity to apply for leave toward the end of training. During the Academy, you will likely accumulate about 40 hours (one week) of leave. When combined with your regularly scheduled days off on both ends, you may be able to take up to nine consecutive days off before reporting to your duty station.
For those with prior military service, it is important to note that your regular days off (e.g., weekends) are not deducted from your leave balance. For example, if you have Saturday and Sunday off, you could request Monday through Friday as leave and have a total of nine days off before officially starting at your station.
Q: How much money do I need to bring with me when I report for duty?
A: The amount of money you should bring depends on your personal expenses, but at a minimum, you should plan for:
You will be issued uniforms to wear during training. Upon reporting for duty, you will receive an initial uniform allowance of $1,000 in the form of credits applied to your uniform account. This is not cash, and all uniforms must be purchased through the designated contract provider.
Q: Can I bring my car to the Academy? What about my spouse and children?
A: Current procedures may require all trainees to report to El Paso, TX, where they travel by bus to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, NM. Because policies can change, it is highly recommended that you verify the latest guidance through official CBP sources or by asking in the USBP Applicants’ subreddit.
As for bringing family, it is best to consult official CBP sources or check with other trainees on Reddit for the most up-to-date information. The Academy schedule is highly demanding, and housing for families near the facility is very limited.
Q: Do trainees at the Academy have any advice for those who are just getting started?
A: Physical preparation is key. Start training now, even if you think you’re in good shape—especially for running and upper body strength. The physical training (PT) requirements are demanding, and being in peak condition will make the Academy experience much smoother.
Packing tips: Travel light, as storage space in dorm rooms is limited. You will have access to computers at the Academy, but bringing your own laptop may be beneficial for note-taking and studying. High-quality running shoes are a must—two pairs are ideal to alternate between workouts.
Required gear:
Boots: You must wear the issued tan boots. Any other boots, including exotic leather ones, are not allowed.
Suggested packing list (from previous trainees and family members):
For up-to-date recommendations, check official CBP sources or ask recent trainees on the USBP Applicants’ subreddit.
A: Yes, physical training (PT) is an essential component of the Border Patrol Academy, and recruits should prepare before arriving. While not as intense as military boot camp, the PT program is demanding and requires a high level of endurance, strength, and mental resilience.
Trainees will participate in PT sessions multiple times per week, gradually increasing in intensity. Sessions typically involve running, push-ups, sit-ups, core exercises, defensive tactics, and obstacle courses. Running endurance is critical, as recruits will need to complete a 1.5-mile run in 13 minutes or less, along with additional endurance-based exercises.
To prepare, it is highly recommended that applicants establish a consistent fitness routine that includes:
- Running: Build endurance by running at least 3–4 miles without stopping.
- Core Strength: Perform sit-ups, crunches, and leg lifts to improve abdominal endurance.
- Upper Body Strength: Expect to do push-ups in various forms, including military-style, wide stance, and diamond push-ups. Being able to perform at least 30–40 consecutive push-ups will be beneficial.
- Cardio & Conditioning: Incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and bodyweight circuits to build stamina.
- Flexibility & Recovery: Stretching and mobility exercises will help prevent injuries during training.
Many trainees who struggle with PT at the Academy were not adequately prepared before arrival. It is far better to enter the Academy in peak condition rather than risk remedial PT, injuries, or potential failure. Mental toughness is equally important—training will be physically demanding, and recruits must push through discomfort to succeed.
Q: Do I get paid while at the Academy?
A: Yes, trainees receive full pay while attending the Border Patrol Academy. The salary is based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale and depends on the grade level at which the trainee was hired (GS-5, GS-7, or GS-9).
In addition to base pay, trainees receive a small daily per diem (approximately $5) to cover incidental expenses. Food, lodging, and training materials are fully provided at no cost to the trainee.
Q: What should I wear while awaiting uniforms at the Academy?
A: Trainees are expected to wear clean, neat, and conservative attire while awaiting the issuance of official uniforms. Shirts must have a collar, and jeans are prohibited for on-duty wear. Business-casual trousers, such as Dockers-style pants, are preferred. Suits and ties are not required.
Currently, generic uniforms are issued for temporary use until official Border Patrol uniforms are provided.
Q: Will we get any time off between the Academy and our duty station?
A: Yes, trainees will have the opportunity to apply for leave toward the end of training. During the Academy, you will likely accumulate about 40 hours (one week) of leave. When combined with your regularly scheduled days off on both ends, you may be able to take up to nine consecutive days off before reporting to your duty station.
For those with prior military service, it is important to note that your regular days off (e.g., weekends) are not deducted from your leave balance. For example, if you have Saturday and Sunday off, you could request Monday through Friday as leave and have a total of nine days off before officially starting at your station.
Q: How much money do I need to bring with me when I report for duty?
A: The amount of money you should bring depends on your personal expenses, but at a minimum, you should plan for:
- Three days of hotel costs (ensure you request the government rate)
- Food and transportation expenses
- At least $300 for incidentals
You will be issued uniforms to wear during training. Upon reporting for duty, you will receive an initial uniform allowance of $1,000 in the form of credits applied to your uniform account. This is not cash, and all uniforms must be purchased through the designated contract provider.
Q: Can I bring my car to the Academy? What about my spouse and children?
A: Current procedures may require all trainees to report to El Paso, TX, where they travel by bus to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, NM. Because policies can change, it is highly recommended that you verify the latest guidance through official CBP sources or by asking in the USBP Applicants’ subreddit.
As for bringing family, it is best to consult official CBP sources or check with other trainees on Reddit for the most up-to-date information. The Academy schedule is highly demanding, and housing for families near the facility is very limited.
Q: Do trainees at the Academy have any advice for those who are just getting started?
A: Physical preparation is key. Start training now, even if you think you’re in good shape—especially for running and upper body strength. The physical training (PT) requirements are demanding, and being in peak condition will make the Academy experience much smoother.
Packing tips: Travel light, as storage space in dorm rooms is limited. You will have access to computers at the Academy, but bringing your own laptop may be beneficial for note-taking and studying. High-quality running shoes are a must—two pairs are ideal to alternate between workouts.
Required gear:
- You will be issued a combo backpack/CamelBak to carry your training essentials. This is the only bag you are permitted to use for daily gear.
Boots: You must wear the issued tan boots. Any other boots, including exotic leather ones, are not allowed.
Suggested packing list (from previous trainees and family members):
- Running shoes (high quality)
- Casual but professional attire (slacks/khakis, polo or button-down shirts—no shorts in class). You will receive a generic FLETC uniform while waiting for your Border Patrol uniform (BP greens), which you’ll begin wearing about four weeks in.
- Lounge clothes for after duty hours
- Index cards (useful for Spanish vocabulary and law enforcement terminology)
- Laundry detergent and fabric softener (can be bought locally)
- Iron (if you don’t want to pay ~$8 per week for pressing services)
- Any personal essentials you can’t live without
For up-to-date recommendations, check official CBP sources or ask recent trainees on the USBP Applicants’ subreddit.
U.S. Border Patrol Academy Training Overview
The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is known for having one of the most challenging training programs in federal law enforcement. New Border Patrol Agents undergo extensive instruction in law enforcement principles, physical fitness, firearms training, tactical operations, Spanish language skills, and emergency response procedures to prepare for their careers.
All new hires receive full pay and benefits while attending training. Those who successfully complete the Academy may also be eligible for up to 18 college credit hours toward an accredited degree.
Academy Curriculum
Law Enforcement Training - Trainees receive comprehensive legal instruction to ensure they understand their responsibilities and authorities as Border Patrol Agents. The three main components of the Academy’s law program include:
Border Patrol Operations (122 hours) - This section prepares trainees for the daily tasks of a Border Patrol Agent, including:
Trainees participate in hands-on exercises designed to simulate real-world field scenarios, such as tracking smugglers, detecting fraudulent documents, and conducting traffic stops.
Physical Fitness & Defensive Tactics (178 hours) - The Physical Techniques Department (PTD) focuses on building mental and physical endurance while ensuring agents are prepared for the physical demands of the job. Training includes:
Trainees must complete a Physical Techniques final exam, which includes:
Firearms Training (133 hours) - Trainees undergo extensive firearms instruction covering:
Firearms training prepares agents to make split-second decisions in life-threatening situations while maintaining strict adherence to use-of-force policies.
Driving & Vehicle Operations (86 hours) - The Driver Training Department (DTD) teaches agents how to operate law enforcement vehicles in high-risk environments, including:
Training concludes with night-time driving exercises and realistic pursuit scenarios where trainees must make tactical decisions in real-time.
Tactical Training (107 hours) - Tactics training integrates defensive skills, firearms proficiency, and situational awareness to prepare agents for fieldwork. Instruction includes:
Trainees also receive Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) instruction, teaching them how to provide emergency medical care in high-risk situations, such as during an active engagement or remote rescue scenario.
Spanish Language Training (182 hours) - Since over 90% of individuals encountered in the field speak Spanish, agents must demonstrate proficiency before graduation. The Academy provides specialized Spanish language training that focuses on:
Trainees who already have Spanish proficiency can test out of the course, while those who need additional instruction will complete an intensive Spanish immersion program.
Source Acknowledgment & Disclaimer - This information was originally sourced from CBP’s official website on December 19, 2022 and other public materials. However, as of February 1, 2025, the original CBP page is no longer available. While we strive to provide accurate and helpful insights, CBP policies and training requirements may change over time.
For the most current and official information, we recommend:
The U.S. Border Patrol Academy is known for having one of the most challenging training programs in federal law enforcement. New Border Patrol Agents undergo extensive instruction in law enforcement principles, physical fitness, firearms training, tactical operations, Spanish language skills, and emergency response procedures to prepare for their careers.
All new hires receive full pay and benefits while attending training. Those who successfully complete the Academy may also be eligible for up to 18 college credit hours toward an accredited degree.
Academy Curriculum
Law Enforcement Training - Trainees receive comprehensive legal instruction to ensure they understand their responsibilities and authorities as Border Patrol Agents. The three main components of the Academy’s law program include:
- Applied Authorities (46 hours): Covers the U.S. government structure, law enforcement limitations, statutory authority, federal criminal statutes, criminal procedures, and professional liability concerns.
- Administrative Law (56 hours): A combination of Nationality Law (12 hours) and Immigration Law (44 hours), focusing on citizenship determinations, visa categories, inadmissibility charges, removal processes, and asylum procedures.
- Report Writing & Courtroom Testimony: Trainees practice the fundamentals of writing law enforcement reports and participate in mock courtroom exercises to prepare for testifying as agents.
Border Patrol Operations (122 hours) - This section prepares trainees for the daily tasks of a Border Patrol Agent, including:
- National security strategies and anti-terrorism awareness
- Use of radios, GPS devices, and automated tracking systems
- Detecting fraudulent documents
- Vehicle checkpoint operations and freight train inspections
- Processing and detention procedures for non-citizens
Trainees participate in hands-on exercises designed to simulate real-world field scenarios, such as tracking smugglers, detecting fraudulent documents, and conducting traffic stops.
Physical Fitness & Defensive Tactics (178 hours) - The Physical Techniques Department (PTD) focuses on building mental and physical endurance while ensuring agents are prepared for the physical demands of the job. Training includes:
- Daily physical conditioning (running, strength training, endurance drills)
- Arrest techniques and defensive tactics
- Use of less-lethal weapons, including OC spray and collapsible batons
- Individual first aid training (IFAK) and emergency medical response
Trainees must complete a Physical Techniques final exam, which includes:
- 1.5-mile run: Maximum time of 13 minutes
- Confidence Course: Must be completed in 2.5 minutes
- 220-yard dash: Must be completed in 46 seconds
Firearms Training (133 hours) - Trainees undergo extensive firearms instruction covering:
- Firearms safety and marksmanship
- Tactical use of firearms under stress
- Use-of-force decision-making scenarios
- Low-light shooting and reactive engagement
- Weapons maintenance and concealed carry techniques
Firearms training prepares agents to make split-second decisions in life-threatening situations while maintaining strict adherence to use-of-force policies.
Driving & Vehicle Operations (86 hours) - The Driver Training Department (DTD) teaches agents how to operate law enforcement vehicles in high-risk environments, including:
- High-speed pursuit techniques
- Four-wheel drive and off-road operations
- Emergency vehicle maneuvers
- Controlled tire deflation devices
Training concludes with night-time driving exercises and realistic pursuit scenarios where trainees must make tactical decisions in real-time.
Tactical Training (107 hours) - Tactics training integrates defensive skills, firearms proficiency, and situational awareness to prepare agents for fieldwork. Instruction includes:
- Risk management & active threat response
- Sign cutting and tracking techniques
- Tactical low-light operations
- All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) familiarization
Trainees also receive Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) instruction, teaching them how to provide emergency medical care in high-risk situations, such as during an active engagement or remote rescue scenario.
Spanish Language Training (182 hours) - Since over 90% of individuals encountered in the field speak Spanish, agents must demonstrate proficiency before graduation. The Academy provides specialized Spanish language training that focuses on:
- Law enforcement communication skills
- Common Spanish phrases for field interactions
- Colloquial expressions and idiomatic terms
Trainees who already have Spanish proficiency can test out of the course, while those who need additional instruction will complete an intensive Spanish immersion program.
Source Acknowledgment & Disclaimer - This information was originally sourced from CBP’s official website on December 19, 2022 and other public materials. However, as of February 1, 2025, the original CBP page is no longer available. While we strive to provide accurate and helpful insights, CBP policies and training requirements may change over time.
For the most current and official information, we recommend:
- Checking CBP’s official website at www.cbp.gov
- Engaging with current applicants on the USBP Applicants’ Reddit community
