CTPAT Eligibility for U.S. Customs Brokers

Understand the U.S. Customs Brokers eligibility requirements and what it takes to become CTPAT certification ready.

U.S. Customs Broker Eligibility Requirements

CTPAT is a trust-based supply chain security program. Customs Brokers may be eligible to participate if they meet CBP’s requirements and can demonstrate consistent security practices across their operations.

This page explains what CBP considers eligible for the Customs Broker category and what it takes to be CTPAT certification ready as a broker.

A Customs Broker is generally eligible for CTPAT if the company can demonstrate the following:

  • Be an active Licensed U.S. Customs Broker. Active is defined as having conducted work as a U.S. Customs Broker within the past year and maintains good standing.
  • The company maintains an active office location (staffed and operational).
  • Have an active U.S. Customs Broker’s license and filer code of record ID in the following formats: ##### Customs Broker’s License Serial Number / ### Filer Code.
  • The company designates a company officer responsible for CTPAT security oversight.
  • The company commits to the responsibilities outlined in the CTPAT Partner Agreement.
  • The company agrees to comply with the Minimum Security Criteria (MSC) for Customs Brokers.
  • Maintain no evidence of financial debt to CBP for which the responsible party has exhausted all administrative and judicial remedies for relief, a final judgment or administrative disposition has been rendered, and the final bill or debt remains unpaid at the time of the initial application or annual renewal.

Important: CBP reviews each company individually. If issues of concern exist, CBP may determine the broker is not eligible to participate.

Want a Clear Answer on Eligibility and a Plan to Get Certification Ready?

We’ll confirm your eligibility, identify gaps that commonly delay progress, and provide a step-by-step roadmap
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