As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers continue to be seen carrying out arrests across Los Angeles County and the rest of the country following President Donald Trump’s crackdown on immigration, many have raised questions about how to identify ICE agents and what the job truly entails.
Recent videos on social media have shown individuals claiming to be ICE agents exiting unmarked vehicles, wearing plain clothes, and sometimes failing to immediately identify themselves. This has prompted growing public concern over reports of people impersonating ICE officers for criminal purposes, including kidnappings.
Many civilians wonder what would allure regular citizens to become Immigration Enforcement officers.
In light of these concerns, here is a breakdown of what it takes to become an ICE agent, based on the official U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement careers website.
Basic qualifications and application process
The application process can be completed online, with various job openings listed across the country. To be considered for most entry-level “frontline” positions, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Be eligible to carry a firearm.
- Enter on duty prior to your 40th birthday.
- For males born after 12/31/1959, Selective Service registration is required.
Unlike many law enforcement roles, no previous experience in law enforcement is required, and candidates do not need to take a pre-employment exam. However, veterans and individuals with prior federal employment are given preference during the selection process.
Medical and background screenings
Before employment, applicants must undergo drug testing, a full medical examination, and a physical fitness assessment. The fitness portion includes a kneel and stand test, push-ups, and a five-minute cardiovascular endurance step test.
All prospective hires must pass a background investigation, which typically takes about three months to complete.
Training and job duties
Once hired, ICE agents receive training before beginning fieldwork. Job duties vary by position, but according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), frontline roles often include:
- Investigating individuals suspected of violating immigration or customs laws.
- Inspecting documents and belongings to determine legal status.
- Apprehending undocumented noncitizens and suspected smugglers.
- Monitoring borders and transportation systems using vehicles, watercraft, ATVs, and more.
- Conducting surveillance, traffic checks, and city patrols.
Salary and benefits
Starting salaries vary based on experience and the specific job role, with a typical range between $40,000 and over $100,000 annually. ICE also offers financial incentives to military veterans and individuals with relevant prior experience.
The agency describes its mission as: “calling on those who want to help protect American interests and secure our Nation. DHS Components work collectively to prevent terrorism; secure borders and our transportation systems; protect the President and other dignitaries; enforce and administer immigration laws; safeguard cyberspace; and ensure resilience to disasters.”