Cargo Systems Messaging Service

CSMS # 55855735 - UPDATE: Customs Broker License Exam - April 2023 Reference Material Information

This message is an update of CSMS 55845271, dated April 10, 2023, and clarifies that Customs Broker License Exam (CBLE) registrants should refer to the CBLE webpage listed below for exam reference materials.

In order that examinees are best equipped for the April 26, 2023 CBLE, U.S. Customs and Border Protection HIGHLY RECOMMENDS that examinees bring paper reference materials to their exam session.  The CBLE reference materials are available under the Reference Materials tab on the CBLE webpage at Customs Broker License Exam (CBLE) | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov).

CBP encourages exam candidates to review all information on the CBLE posted at the CBP.gov link above, including the following:

• Although examinees may use any written reference material, the use of any electronic device during the exam (e.g., laptop, iPad / Nook / Kindle, smart phone, personal digital assistant, smartwatch, digital timers, etc.) is strictly prohibited. 
• Examinees are allowed to bring one rolling crate OR one suitcase into the exam room not to exceed 16"H X 18.5"W X 15"D.  All other storage containers will remain outside of the exam room. 
• Examinees may bring a shelf/rack into the exam room to hold the approved testing resources. The shelf/rack, in its expanded form, cannot exceed the width and depth of the crate (18.5” W x 15”D), to prevent racks from extending past individual testing space. The height of the shelf/rack is not limited, as it is merely elevating materials closer to eye-level.  
• Proctors will not be verifying individual pieces of paper during the check-in or examination process.  As long as none of the reference materials or documents brought into the exam are electronic, they will be acceptable for use during the exam. 
• Given that electronic items are not permitted, as described above, electronic timers are also not permitted. 
• Small, plastic sand timers are permitted to be used during the test. Please keep in mind also that there will be a timer as part of the exam software for your use during the exam. 
• Remote examinees are not required to follow the crate sizing guidelines, however they MUST distribute their materials in a way that ensures they do not exit the view of the camera while searching through reference materials. 
• No exceptions will be made. 

For questions on the CBLE, contact the headquarters Broker Management Branch at brokermanagement@cbp.dhs.gov.