To become an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agent, the typical pathway involves:

• Being a U.S. citizen and usually between 21 and 37 years old (some waivers for veterans and federal law enforcement experience apply).
• Having at least a bachelor's degree, often in fields like criminal justice, emergency management, homeland security, finance, foreign languages, computer science, or accounting. Some education requirements may be waived for veterans or those with significant experience.
• Passing a thorough background check, drug test, medical exam, and physical fitness tests.
• Applying for open positions via USAJobs and progressing through written exams, interviews, and sometimes polygraph tests.
• Upon hiring, completing about 22 weeks of training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).

Specific steps include:

1. Obtain the necessary education (bachelor's degree preferred).
2. Find and apply for an ICE agent position on the USAJobs website.
3. Pass pre-employment tests including physical fitness, drug screening, medical exam, background check, and interviews.
4. Complete training at FLETC once hired.

Age limits and prior experience may affect eligibility, and willingness to relocate and carry a firearm is required.