Being a border patrol agent can be strenuous. You may need to run or lift heavy items. Because of these physical demands, you must pass fitness tests. You must be able to do the following:

• complete 20 proper form push-ups in 60 seconds;
• complete 25 proper form sit-ups in 60 seconds; and
• complete a step test in which you step up onto a 14-inch step 120 times each minute for five minutes.

To graduate from the border patrol academy you must be able to:

• run 1.5 miles in 15 minutes or less;
• run a 220-yard dash in 45 seconds or less; and
• complete 24 proper form push-ups in 60 seconds.

Additional things to know:

• This occupation is growing and new agents are being actively recruited.
• As a patrol agent, you wear a uniform and carry a gun.
• Agents often work weekends and overtime. They also work shifts, which means you may work evenings or nights.
• Agents may be sent on temporary assignments on short notice. They also may be permanently reassigned to another part of the country.
• Agents work in all types of weather. Those on the southern border work in intense heat in the summer. Those who work on the northern border work in intense cold in the winter. The terrain you work in may be the desert or a thick forest.
• Agents must be able to pass random drug tests.
• Your first two years on the job are a trial period. Your performance and conduct must meet certain criteria for you to be offered a permanent job. Your first six months on the job is a probationary period.
• Depending on your experience, you will be hired at the GL-5, GL-7, or GL-9 grade level. After six months you are eligible to be promoted one level and receive a raise. In addition, you can earn more money by working overtime. You also receive benefits. These include vacation pay and sick leave. You receive several types of insurance--health, life, and long-term health care. Finally, you receive retirement benefits and a uniform allowance.