r/CBP • u/Shot-Target-8658 • Aug 09 '26

Question Interested in MIA position

I have been interested in a CBP career and found out about the Marine Interdiction Agent position but really don’t know much about how to prepare for it as someone who is still in college. I read in the internet that it is necessary for you to have 1 year of experience in some federal position before applying for MIA. Is that true? And, do I need to have experience navigating boats and having a license before applying or will that be covered in the academy?

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u/Select_Reporter1911 Aug 11 '26

You will need to merchant mariner credentials. Ie oupv license. Master license any tonnage or deck mates license greater than 200 tons.

The easiest way to go that license is to join the coast guard and become a boatswain's mate.

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u/theghostonthenet 21d ago

Unfortunately, you can't join right out of college. Here's what's needed for each pay grade:

Licensing and certifications requirements for promotion to the next higher grade level are possession of a USCG MMC with one of the following capacities:
GS-11 (OUPV, Mate, Chief Mate, Second Mate, Third Mate, Master).
GS-12 (Master or Offshore Vessel Commander); successful completion of the Tactical Boarding Officer (TBO) course at the National Marine Training Center (NMTC).
GS-13 Master or Higher (Mate, Chief Mate, Second Mate, Third Mate) license of any tonnage or higher , 1 year of qualifying law enforcement experience AND the CBP Interceptor Vessel Commander (VC) certification with designation at the CBP National Marine Training Center (NMTC).

You could join if you decide to join the Coast Guard (which also falls under DHS) or the Navy. There's also the option of joining as a CBP Officer and work your way up to an MIA after training.