How hard is it to become an FBI agent?

Before being considered for a position as an FBI agent, you must not meet any of multiple disqualifying criteria, including felony and domestic violence convictions, defaulting on government-backed student loans or court-ordered child support, and failing to file income tax returns at any level.

Not meeting any of the disqualifying criteria is not enough on its own. You must also be a U.S. Citizen who is in compliance with the FBI Drug Policy and is able to obtain a top security clearance to be considered for any position with the FBI.

To obtain a top security clearance, you must undergo an extensive and invasive background investigation that draws conclusions on various aspects of your person.

• Stability

• Trustworthiness

• Reliability

• Discretion

• Character

• Honesty

• Judgment

• Loyalty to the U.S.

Background investigators will conduct several checks, including but not limited to:

• Records checks: credit, criminal, and civil

• Employment checks

• Reference checks

• Income tax records

• Driving history

Former employers, co-workers, neighbors, friends, and family may all be contacted during the FBI background investigation process. The process is extensive and invasive because it is thorough. Be prepared to answer questions about the time you stole a piece of candy from the corner store when you were seven.

In addition to obtaining a top security clearance, which is required for all positions with the FBI, you need to meet the following additional minimum qualifications to become an FBI special agent:

• Be aged 23-36

• Have a bachelor's degree

• Have a valid driver's license with six months of driving experience

• Have two years of full-time work experience, or one year plus a master's degree

• Meet the special agent physical fitness requirements

Though a degree is not required, it is extremely difficult to secure a role as an FBI agent without a relevant college degree. The most competitive applicants have advanced degrees and years of relevant full-time work experience.