How to Become an FBI Agent for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

There are only about 10,100 FBI special agents, making this a highly selective career path. For students and professionals drawn to law enforcement, intelligence, or forensic science, the path to becoming an agent is not always clear. Undergraduate students may question which degrees best align with FBI hiring needs, while professionals from other fields might wonder how their expertise fits. With complex eligibility requirements, specialized training, and a rigorous selection process, understanding the steps in advance is essential. This article breaks down the key qualifications, career paths, and application process to help aspiring agents take informed steps toward their goals.

Key Things You Should Know About How to Become an FBI Agent

Becoming an FBI agent is highly competitive. There are only about 10,100 FBI special agents, making this a selective career path. Candidates must meet strict eligibility requirements, including education, work experience, and physical fitness standards.
The FBI hires professionals from diverse backgrounds. While many agents have degrees in criminal justice or law, the FBI also recruits candidates with backgrounds in cybersecurity, forensic accounting, psychology, and foreign languages. Specialized skills can improve an applicant's competitiveness.
The path to becoming an agent involves extensive training. All FBI agents must complete 20 weeks of training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. This includes 850 hours of instruction in investigative techniques, defensive tactics, firearms training, and intelligence operations.
The background investigation is extensive and time-consuming. To obtain a top secret SCI clearance, candidates undergo a background check that includes a polygraph examination, drug testing, credit and arrest checks, and interviews with associates. This process can take six to eighteen months.
FBI agents have strong career and financial incentives. The starting salary for new agents is approximately $74,733 (GL-10), with the potential to earn up to $162,672 (GS-15) in senior roles. Agents also receive federal benefits, including retirement plans, student loan repayment, and health insurance.

What is an FBI agent?
Who can become an FBI agent?
What are the education requirements for becoming an FBI agent?
How to Become an FBI Agent in 2025: The 10-Step Process
What training do FBI special agents undergo?
What are the essential skills for FBI agents?
What career paths and specializations exist in the FBI?
What does a day in the life of an FBI agent look like?
How much do FBI agents earn?
What benefits do FBI agents receive?
What are alternative careers similar to being an FBI agent?
Is specialized legal certification a valuable asset for FBI agents?
Can interagency collaboration broaden FBI agents’ strategic capabilities?
Can an advanced degree in legal studies enhance career prospects for FBI agents?
What are the opportunities for career advancement in the FBI?
How do FBI agents balance work and personal life?
Can Supplemental Legal Certifications Enhance Mission-Critical Performance?
Other Things You Should Know About How to Become an FBI Agent

What is an FBI agent?

An FBI special agent is a highly trained law enforcement officer responsible for investigating federal crimes, gathering intelligence, and protecting national security. As part of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, agents work to prevent terrorism, combat organized crime, fight cybercrime, and enforce federal laws across the United States and abroad. The FBI’s mission extends beyond traditional law enforcement, involving intelligence analysis, counterintelligence, and collaboration with other government agencies to address evolving threats.

While Hollywood often portrays FBI agents as field operatives chasing criminals, the reality is more complex. Some agents conduct covert investigations, execute search warrants, and make arrests, while others focus on intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, and forensic science. The agency also offers specialized roles in areas such as hostage negotiation, behavioral analysis, and financial crime investigation, allowing agents to tailor their careers to their expertise.

Despite the variety of roles, all special agents undergo the same rigorous selection and training process before joining the ranks of approximately 10,100 FBI special agents actively serving today. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of who can become an FBI agent, the necessary qualifications, and what to expect throughout the selection and training process. Similar to those researching how to become a prison warden, aspiring FBI agents must meet strict educational and experience requirements to qualify for leadership roles in law enforcement.

Who can become an FBI agent?

Becoming an FBI agent requires meeting strict eligibility criteria designed to ensure candidates have the integrity, responsibility, and qualifications necessary for the role. The FBI enforces these requirements rigorously, and applicants must meet them before moving forward in the hiring process.

U.S. citizenship and age requirements. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and between 23 and 36 years old at the time of application. Those with federal law enforcement experience or veteran’s preference may receive age waivers.
Clean legal and financial history. Candidates must have no felony convictions, be in good standing with student loan repayments, have no history of tax evasion, and be up to date on child support payments.
Compliance with the FBI's drug policy. The agency has strict guidelines regarding prior drug use, including limitations on recent marijuana and other illegal substance use.
Registration with Selective Service. Male applicants must be registered with the Selective Service System unless exempt.
Security clearance and background check. Candidates must obtain a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance. This requires passing a polygraph test, a urinalysis, an extensive background investigation, and interviews with associates and past employers.

While these are the foundational requirements, special agents must also meet additional criteria related to education, work experience, and physical fitness. A bachelor’s degree is mandatory, but the best bachelor degrees for FBI agents depend on the agency’s evolving needs.

If you're exploring law enforcement careers in general, it’s also helpful to understand what are the requirements to be a police officer, as many skills and qualifications overlap between the two professions.

What are the education requirements for becoming an FBI agent?

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement for becoming an FBI agent, but the field of study can vary widely depending on the agency’s needs. While degrees in criminal justice, criminology, and homeland security are common, the FBI also values candidates with backgrounds in cybersecurity, accounting, law, foreign languages, and psychology. Those with specialized expertise, such as a criminal psychology degree, may find opportunities in behavioral analysis and profiling.

Candidates with advanced degrees, such as a master’s or a PhD, may qualify with less required work experience. While education is a critical factor, professional experience, language proficiency, and specialized skills play a significant role in the hiring process. The FBI employs approximately 38,000 professionals, including special agents and support personnel, emphasizing the diverse expertise required within the agency.

How to Become an FBI Agent in 2025: The 10-Step Process

The FBI follows a structured 10-step process to identify, assess, and train qualified candidates for the role of special agent. From the initial application to intensive training at the FBI Academy, each stage evaluates an applicant’s qualifications, physical fitness, and background suitability to ensure they meet the agency’s high standards.

Application and Screening. The process begins with submitting a complete application packet, including a federal resume, transcripts, and any relevant documentation, such as prior federal employment records or military service papers. Including additional credentials, like short certificate programs in cybersecurity or foreign languages, can strengthen an applicant’s profile. The FBI typically provides a minimum qualification decision within 10 days of a complete submission.
Phase I Test. This three-hour computerized exam assesses logic-based reasoning, situational judgment, personality fit, and other cognitive abilities. Candidates must schedule and complete the test within 21 days of receiving an invitation and will receive their results within one hour of finishing the exam.
Physical Fitness Test (PFT) Self-Evaluation. Before attending the Meet & Greet, candidates must conduct a self-evaluation following FBI fitness protocols to ensure they meet the agency’s physical standards.
Meet and Greet. This is an information session held at a Processing Field Office (PFO), providing candidates with a deeper understanding of the special agent role and the hiring process. Attendance must occur within 60 days of passing the Phase I test.
Physical Fitness Test (PFT). Within 60 days of completing the Meet & Greet, candidates must pass an official PFT with a minimum score of 9 points, including at least 1 point in three out of four events. Those who score 12 points or higher may be exempt from retaking the test for up to a year before training at Quantico.
Phase II Test. This phase consists of two parts: a structured interview with a panel of FBI special agents and a computerized writing assessment. Candidates typically receive their results within two weeks of completion.
Conditional Appointment Offer (CAO). Successful candidates are issued a CAO, but their hiring remains contingent on passing additional evaluations, including a polygraph examination, medical review, and background investigation. The CAO is typically received within seven days of passing Phase II.
Background Investigation. This in-depth process includes fingerprinting, a personnel security interview (PSI), drug testing, credit and arrest record checks, and interviews with personal and professional references. The investigation can take six to 18 months, depending on an applicant’s history.
Pre-Quantico Physical Fitness Test (PFT). Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 9 points within 120 days of their scheduled arrival at the FBI Academy. Those who previously scored 12 points or higher may be exempt from retaking the test.
Basic Field Training Course (BFTC). The final step is the 18-week training program at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Training covers firearms handling, defensive tactics, investigative techniques, and intelligence operations. Candidates must pass a final PFT during training to graduate and become an official FBI special agent.

Each phase of the process is designed to ensure that only the most qualified candidates advance, reflecting the FBI’s rigorous standards for integrity, physical ability, and investigative skills. More than 55,790 public safety professionals have graduated from the FBI National Academy (NA) since its inception in 1935.

What training do FBI special agents undergo?

Before officially serving in the field, FBI special agents must complete intensive training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. This 18-week Basic Field Training Course (BFTC) immerses trainees in over 850 hours of instruction across multiple disciplines, preparing them for the complex demands of federal law enforcement.

Academic Training. Special agents study ethics, investigative techniques, forensic science, leadership, and interrogation methods. As part of their education, they visit the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to reinforce the FBI’s role in protecting civil rights and upholding justice.
Firearms Training. Over 100 hours of firearms instruction cover marksmanship, safety, and tactical shooting techniques. Agents train extensively with Bureau-issued weapons, learning to operate in high-pressure situations.
Operational Skills Development. Training includes tactical driving, surveillance techniques, defensive tactics, and physical fitness. Agents practice maneuvers critical to real-world investigations and arrests.
Case Exercises. Trainees participate in realistic investigative scenarios, conducting interviews, gathering intelligence, and executing simulated arrests. These exercises test their ability to apply classroom knowledge in practical situations.
Hogan’s Alley. One of the most renowned parts of FBI training, Hogan’s Alley is a specially designed mock town built with Hollywood set designers. It includes a bank, post office, hotel, and various storefronts, where trainees engage in high-pressure crime simulations featuring professional actors portraying criminals and bystanders.
Ongoing Training. Even after graduating from Quantico, FBI agents return for advanced training throughout their careers. This ensures they remain prepared for evolving threats, new law enforcement tactics, and intelligence analysis techniques.

Through this rigorous training, FBI agents develop the skills, discipline, and judgment needed to handle national security threats, criminal investigations, and crisis situations with precision and professionalism.

What are the essential skills for FBI agents?

Throughout the selection process, FBI applicants are evaluated on a set of core competencies that are essential for success in the role. These skills ensure that special agents can navigate complex investigations, work effectively in high-pressure situations, and adapt to evolving threats.

Collaboration. Agents must work seamlessly with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, as well as intelligence agencies, to coordinate investigations.
Communication. Clear and concise communication is critical, whether writing reports, testifying in court, or conducting interviews.
Flexibility and Adaptability. FBI agents must be able to adjust to changing assignments, environments, and emerging threats.
Initiative. Agents take proactive steps in investigations, identifying leads and pursuing cases with determination.
Interpersonal Ability. The ability to build trust with colleagues, informants, and community members is key to gathering intelligence and solving cases.
Leadership. Special agents often lead investigative teams, make critical decisions, and take charge in high-stakes situations.
Organization and Planning. Managing multiple cases, prioritizing tasks, and preparing investigative strategies require strong organizational skills.
Problem Solving and Judgment. Agents analyze complex information, assess risks, and make sound decisions under pressure.

These competencies are assessed at every stage of the selection process and continue to be essential throughout an agent’s career. Applicants who demonstrate these skills will have a stronger foundation for success in the FBI.

What career paths and specializations exist in the FBI?

The FBI offers a wide range of career paths and specializations, allowing agents to focus on different areas of law enforcement, intelligence, forensic science, and national security. While all special agents begin with the same foundational training, many later pursue specialized roles that align with their expertise and interests. Some of these positions may even benefit from advanced education, including online doctoral programs, which can enhance an agent’s qualifications in areas such as criminal psychology, cybersecurity, or forensic science.

Law Enforcement & Tactical Roles

Some agents serve in high-risk tactical units that handle critical incidents and dangerous situations.

SWAT Team Members. These agents respond to armed threats, conduct high-risk arrests, and execute search warrants in volatile situations. They are highly trained in firearms, close-quarters combat, and tactical operations.
Hostage Rescue Team (HRT). This elite unit specializes in counterterrorism operations and hostage situations, deploying domestically and internationally to neutralize threats.
Bomb Technicians. Experts in explosive devices, these agents assess, dismantle, and neutralize threats involving IEDs (improvised explosive devices) and other hazardous materials.
Tactical Helicopter Pilots. Supporting FBI operations from the air, these pilots conduct surveillance, transport agents, and assist in tactical missions.

Intelligence & Analysis

The FBI plays a crucial role in intelligence gathering and analysis to counter national security threats.

Intelligence Analysts. These professionals collect, interpret, and assess intelligence from multiple sources to support investigations and national security efforts.
Cybercrime Experts. Focused on digital threats, these specialists investigate hacking, cyberterrorism, ransomware, and financial cybercrimes.
Behavioral Analysts. These agents study criminal behavior and assist in profiling offenders, often working in counterterrorism and violent crime investigations.

Forensic Science & Technology

Forensic experts provide scientific and technological support to investigations.

DNA Analysts. Specialists in genetic identification, they examine biological evidence to link suspects to crime scenes.
Cryptanalysts. These experts decipher encrypted communications, financial transactions, and coded messages used by criminal organizations.
Evidence Examiners. Responsible for fingerprint analysis, firearms identification, and forensic document examination, they provide crucial investigative support.
Digital Forensic Specialists. These professionals recover, analyze, and interpret digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and online communications.

Specialized Investigations

Many agents focus on specific types of crime, requiring deep expertise.

Counterterrorism Agents. Tasked with preventing and disrupting terrorist activities, they work domestically and abroad to mitigate threats.
Cybercrime Investigators. These agents track financial fraud, identity theft, online exploitation, and digital attacks targeting U.S. infrastructure.
Organized Crime Specialists. Focused on dismantling criminal enterprises, they investigate drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illicit financial operations.
White-Collar Crime Experts. Investigating fraud, embezzlement, and corporate corruption, these specialists work closely with financial analysts and forensic accountants.

Career Progression

FBI agents can advance in their careers in various ways.

Leadership Roles. Agents can rise through the ranks to supervisory positions, becoming special agents in charge (SACs) or section chiefs overseeing investigations.
Training and Mentorship. Experienced agents may take on roles at the FBI Academy, mentoring and instructing new recruits.
Specialized Advisory Positions. Senior agents may transition into roles where they provide expertise in legal, cybersecurity, or counterterrorism strategy.

Agents have numerous opportunities for specialization and career advancement, whether they focus on tactical operations, intelligence analysis, or forensic science. Many professionals seek advanced education to refine their expertise and remain at the forefront of their field.

What does a day in the life of an FBI agent look like?

FBI agents navigate a dynamic work environment where no two days are the same. While a typical workweek is around 50 hours, assignments, investigations, and emergencies can extend those hours unpredictably. Some agents start their mornings reviewing case files and intelligence briefings, while others head straight into the field for surveillance, interviews, or tactical operations. Work can range from analyzing digital evidence and executing search warrants to coordinating with local and federal law enforcement agencies.

Balancing Education and Career Growth

Given the demanding nature of the job, balancing additional education can be challenging. Some assignments provide enough stability for agents to pursue a PhD part time, which can be beneficial for career advancement. However, other roles involve unpredictable hours, making it difficult to commit to a structured academic program. To support professional development, the FBI offers student loan repayment programs, helping agents manage the financial burden of further education while continuing their service in critical roles.

How much do FBI agents earn?

FBI special agents are paid according to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, starting at the GL-10 level for entry-level positions. As agents gain experience and advance in rank, their salaries increase through step promotions and grade advancements. Supervisory and executive roles are classified under GS-14 and GS-15, reflecting their higher levels of responsibility. The chart below outlines the base salaries for FBI agents in 2025.

Additional Compensation: Locality and Availability Pay

In addition to base salaries, FBI agents receive locality pay, which adjusts earnings based on the cost of living in their assigned location. They also qualify for availability pay—an extra 25% of their base salary—to account for the irregular hours and demanding nature of their work. These factors significantly increase an agent’s total compensation.

On average, an FBI special agent earns around $100,000 per year, though salaries vary depending on location, experience, and seniority. Those in leadership or specialized roles often earn significantly more as they progress through the ranks.

What benefits do FBI agents receive?

FBI agents receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being, financial security, and career development. These benefits include competitive healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and specialized allowances that recognize the unique demands of their work. Additionally, the FBI offers programs that help with student loan repayment and continuing education, ensuring that agents can advance their careers while managing financial obligations.

Core Benefits

Health Insurance. FBI agents have access to a range of federal employee health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, with options for family members.
Retirement Plans. Agents participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a pension, Social Security benefits, and a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching contributions.
Pension and Annuities. FBI agents qualify for retirement benefits after 20 years of service, with pension calculations based on years of service and salary history.

Additional Compensation and Perks

Locality and Availability Pay. Agents receive locality pay based on the cost of living in their assigned region, plus a 25% availability pay increase to account for irregular hours.
Paid Time Off. New agents start with 13 days of annual leave, which increases with tenure, in addition to 13 days of sick leave per year and 11 federal holidays.
Student Loan Repayment. The FBI offers student loan repayment assistance for qualifying employees, helping to ease financial burdens.
Relocation Assistance. When assignments require relocation, agents may receive financial support to cover moving expenses.
Continuing Education. The FBI provides opportunities for specialized training programs and leadership courses, and may offer tuition assistance for further education, subject to availability and approval.

These benefits ensure that FBI agents are supported both professionally and personally, allowing them to focus on their mission while securing their financial future. FBI agents earn some of the highest salaries among Protective Services occupations. In the Bureau of Labor Statistics database, they are classified under 'Detectives and Criminal Investigators,' which falls within the broader 'Police and Detectives' category. See the chart below.

What are alternative careers similar to being an FBI agent?

While becoming an FBI agent is a prestigious and rewarding career path, there are several alternative roles that require similar skill sets, training, and responsibilities. Many professionals who are drawn to investigative work, intelligence gathering, or law enforcement can find fulfilling careers in other federal agencies, the private sector, or specialized fields such as cybersecurity and forensic analysis.

Federal Law Enforcement Careers

Many federal agencies offer investigative and tactical roles similar to those of FBI agents. These positions involve enforcing federal laws, conducting surveillance, and working on criminal cases at a national level.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). DEA agents investigate drug trafficking organizations, enforce controlled substance laws, and work on international narcotics cases.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). ATF agents focus on criminal organizations involved in firearms trafficking, explosives, and arson investigations.
Secret Service. Agents provide protection for high-ranking government officials and conduct financial crime investigations related to counterfeiting and fraud.
U.S. Marshals Service. Marshals specialize in fugitive apprehension, witness protection, and transporting high-risk prisoners.

Private Sector Investigations

For those who want to use their investigative skills outside of government roles, the private sector offers opportunities in corporate security, fraud detection, and legal investigations.

Corporate security specialists work for large companies to investigate financial fraud, cybersecurity threats, and internal misconduct.
Private investigators conduct background checks, fraud investigations, and surveillance for businesses, attorneys, and insurance companies.
Risk management consultants assess security risks for corporations, helping them prevent fraud, theft, and cybercrime.

Specializing Through Education

For those looking to specialize in a particular area, regionally accredited online colleges offer degree programs in cybersecurity, forensic psychology, criminal justice, and intelligence analysis. These programs can help professionals pivot into careers that align more closely with their skills and interests, whether in government, private industry, or academia. The job growth for roles as detectives and criminal investigators have a job growth at 4% from 2023 to 2033, translating to around 2,600 new jobs by the end of the period.

While the FBI may be the most well-known investigative agency, it is not the only path to a fulfilling career in criminal investigations and national security. Whether through alternative law enforcement agencies, private-sector roles, or specialized fields, individuals with strong analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills can build impactful careers that align with their expertise and interests.

Interestingly, even outside of investigative fields, some professionals make successful transitions into sales or business roles that rely heavily on communication, persuasion, and analytical thinking. One example is the pharmaceutical sales rep career path, which appeals to those with strong interpersonal skills and a background in science or healthcare. These roles involve educating healthcare providers on medical products and require both strategic planning and the ability to build long-term client relationships.

Likewise, individuals who enjoy education and physical activity may consider teaching roles, especially in schools or athletic programs. While the PE teacher salary varies by district and level of experience, it can offer a stable and rewarding career for those passionate about student wellness and physical education.

Is specialized legal certification a valuable asset for FBI agents?

In today’s complex investigative environment, targeted legal certifications can offer agents practical expertise in navigating regulatory frameworks and managing critical legal documentation. Earning an ABA approved online paralegal certificate equips agents with precise skills for case briefing, evidence management, and interagency communication, thereby streamlining legal processes during investigations and enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

Here's What FBI Agents Have to Say About How to Become an FBI Agents

Being an FBI agent is not just a job—it’s a commitment to justice. There are long hours, unpredictable assignments, and high-pressure situations, but knowing that my work makes a difference keeps me motivated. From solving violent crimes to protecting national security, every case reminds me why I chose this path. Mark
I joined the Bureau right after law school, and I’ve been amazed by the continuous training and professional development opportunities. Whether it’s specialized tactical training or leadership programs, the FBI gives you the tools to grow in your career while serving a higher purpose. Samantha
I started in cybercrime investigations because of my background in computer science. The FBI values diverse expertise, and I’ve been able to use my technical skills to track hackers and protect critical infrastructure. Whether you have experience in law, finance, or psychology, there’s a place for you here. Derrick

Can interagency collaboration broaden FBI agents’ strategic capabilities?

FBI agents can benefit from structured partnerships with other federal agencies through streamlined intelligence sharing and joint operational exercises. Such collaboration exposes agents to diverse tactics, fosters cross-functional expertise, and enhances the agility required to address complex national security challenges. Engaging with external agencies, like the CIA—with outlined CIA case officer requirements—offers unique operational insights that can further refine investigative strategies and expand career horizons without duplicating existing training or certification processes.

Can an advanced degree in legal studies enhance career prospects for FBI agents?

An advanced degree in legal studies provides a deeper understanding of federal regulations and legal frameworks, which can complement an FBI agent’s investigative and analytical skills. This specialized education refines the ability to interpret complex legal documents, supports precise decision-making during high-stakes operations, and facilitates effective communication with legal authorities. Notably, obtaining an online master in legal studies offers the flexibility to integrate advanced academic insights with on-the-job responsibilities, thereby bolstering career progression and readiness for specialized assignments.

What are the opportunities for career advancement in the FBI?

FBI agents benefit from structured promotion tracks and continuous professional development. Progression from field roles to specialized or supervisory positions is merit-based, with advancements reflecting experience, additional training, and proven leadership. Some agents choose to enhance their credentials through further academic study, such as an online criminal justice degree, to better qualify for advanced roles. Performance evaluations, specialized certifications, and cross-training in diverse fields further support upward mobility within the agency.

How do FBI agents balance work and personal life?

FBI agents face a demanding schedule with unpredictable hours and high-pressure assignments, yet they adopt a variety of strategies to sustain their personal well-being. Structured resilience training, access to specialized mental health programs, and tailored wellness initiatives play pivotal roles in managing stress. Flexible scheduling options, when available, further help agents maintain a healthy balance between duty and downtime. Additionally, some agents explore alternative career paths to mitigate burnout and secure long-term stability, such as considering what criminal justice job pays the most, which may offer a different work environment and lifestyle.

Can Supplemental Legal Certifications Enhance Mission-Critical Performance?

Specialized legal certifications offer FBI agents focused skill development that can streamline case documentation and legal briefings, reinforcing the department’s operational effectiveness. Such credentials, including the fastest paralegal certification, provide deeper insights into legal procedures and evidence management without the time commitment of a full degree. This targeted training allows agents to support investigative tasks more efficiently and adapt to the evolving legal challenges encountered in federal cases.

Key Findings

The average annual salary for federal investigators is approximately $97,756, with FBI special agents earning between $74,733 and $162,672, depending on their rank and experience.
The Bureau has an estimated 38,000 employees, including 10,100 special agents and thousands of support personnel in intelligence, cybersecurity, and law enforcement operations.
FBI agents have diverse career paths. From intelligence analysis to cybercrime investigations, the Bureau offers opportunities for professionals with backgrounds in law, forensic science, cybersecurity, and financial crimes.
Detectives and criminal investigators see steady job growth. The field is expected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, adding around 2,600 new jobs, reflecting ongoing demand for investigative expertise.
Protective services salaries differ widely. Police officers and detectives earn a median salary of $74,910, while private detectives and investigators earn $49,540, highlighting the financial benefits of federal law enforcement careers.
Law enforcement careers vary in pay across industries. Detectives and criminal investigators in federal, state, and local government earn an average of $121,770, making it the highest-paying sector, followed by the Postal Service ($111,930) and psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals ($89,490).

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become an FBI Agent

How hard is it to be in the FBI?

Becoming an FBI agent is highly competitive and requires meeting strict eligibility requirements. Candidates must pass a thorough background check, physical fitness test, written exams, and structured interviews. The hiring process can take several months to over a year due to its rigorous selection standards. Once hired, agents must complete intensive training at the FBI Academy, which includes law enforcement techniques, firearms training, and investigative procedures. The job itself is physically and mentally demanding, often involving high-pressure situations, long hours, and potential danger.

How long is FBI training?

FBI training lasts 18 weeks and takes place at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. During this period, trainees undergo extensive instruction in investigative techniques, intelligence gathering, defensive tactics, and physical fitness. They also receive firearms training and participate in simulated case exercises to prepare for real-world scenarios. Passing all required assessments is necessary to graduate and officially become a special agent.

What degree is best for the FBI?

The FBI does not require a specific degree, but fields such as criminal justice, forensic science, cybersecurity, computer science, finance, and foreign languages are highly valued. A degree in accounting or law can also be beneficial, especially for financial crime investigations. The best degree depends on the desired specialization, as the FBI hires agents with diverse expertise to handle different types of cases.

What are the most dangerous assignments for FBI agents?

Some of the most dangerous assignments for FBI agents include counterterrorism, gang investigations, organized crime, drug enforcement, and undercover operations. Agents working in these areas may face violent criminals, armed confrontations, and high-risk raids. Hostage rescue and tactical operations also carry significant danger, as they involve responding to crisis situations. While all FBI agents receive extensive training to handle threats, certain roles involve higher levels of personal risk.

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