US Border Patrol BORTAC: Joining Requirements, Selection Process, and Training

The Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) was established in 1984 as part of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It fulfills the need for a specialized tactical unit capable of handling high-risk operations along the US borders.  

While there are other elite tactical units like the CIA’s Special Activities Division or FBI Hostage Rescue Team, few are as selective as  BORTAC / BORSTAR.

BORTAC’s selection process typically has a clearance rate of 25%, meaning you have a one in four chance of passing the test. And it WILL push you to your due to its rigorous rucking, load-bearing, running, and other PT.

According to this article from military.com, you can expect to cover over 80 miles of load bearing/rucking with serious loads of 75-100 pounds in one week alone.

BORTAC Eligibility Criteria

You will have to meet several stringent eligibility criteria to enter the BORTAC division. And that’s by design – to ensure only the most capable and prepared individuals are considered.

Basic Requirements

US Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen and legally eligible to work in federal law enforcement.

Age Limits: Applicants must typically be between the ages of 21 and 37 at the time of application. However, age waivers may be available for exceptional situations.

Educational Qualifications: A minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required to apply. However, a higher level of education may be beneficial. Degrees in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields are particularly advantageous.

Medical and Physical Standards: BORTAC candidates must meet rigorous medical and physical standards. We’ll discuss these requirements in detail, but to give you some context – a BORTAC candidate should (at minimum) be able to do at least 50+ push-ups and sit-ups, a few dozen pull-ups, a 1.5mile run under 10-11 minutes, and showcase good marksmanship with a pistol.

Law Enforcement Experience

Required Experience in Law Enforcement or Military

Applicants must have at least three years of relevant experience in law enforcement or military service. It is a critical requirement to have a foundation of tactical knowledge, discipline, and operational expertise.

Candidates who have served in specialized units, such as SWAT or military special operations, are highly preferred.

Preferred Skills and Background

Some of the preferred skills include:

• Advanced marksmanship and firearms proficiency
• Tactical training and experience in high-risk operations
• Physical fitness and combat readiness
• Leadership and team coordination skills
• Experience in counter-terrorism, drug interdiction, or human trafficking operations
• Specialized certifications (e.g., EMT, paramedic, SCUBA certification)

Because candidates with these additional skills and experiences are better prepared for the demanding nature of BORTAC missions, they’re naturally preferred.

Read More: How to Join the FBI Hostage Rescue Team?

BORTAC Application Process

As a civilian, you cannot directly enter the BORTAC division. You must apply to the US Border Patrol first. This involves completing an application form available on the CBP website. Once accepted as a Border Patrol Agent, you can work towards qualifying for BORTAC.

You can find most of the details in the applicant resources section on the CBP website.

Pre-Selection Screening

Before you can be considered for BORTAC, you must go through a pre-selection screening process, which includes:

• Background Check: A thorough background check will ensure you meet the security standards.
• Polygraph Test: You may be required to pass a polygraph test as part of the security clearance process.
• Physical Fitness Tests: This will most certainly take you to hell and back a few times over, so be prepared.

There are typically one or two BORTAC selection courses held each year. You must have at least two years of experience as a Border Patrol Agent before applying.

If you pass the selection and qualification process, you may qualify for a local or national team. For more details on the selection process, refer to BORTAC Conducts Selection and Certification Course.

BORTAC Selection Process

Here are the study guides and preparation manuals for the entrance exam.

The selection process spans approximately three weeks, followed by an eight-week certification course for those who pass the initial phases.

Phase 1: Initial Screening

The first phase (initial screening) includes a Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and standard background checks.

The Physical Fitness Test (PFT) uses several exercises to assess overall physical fitness, including strength, endurance, and agility.

1. Sit-ups

2. 300-Meter Sprint

3. Push-ups (untimed)

4. 1.5-Mile Run

5. Pull-ups (untimed)

*Note: Unlike some other federal agencies, the scoring system of BORTAC’s selection process isn’t as well-known. So these numbers are estimates.

There’s also a ruck session that is supposedly held beforehand on Selection Day 0. It’s about a 6-mile ruck with 50+ lbs of weight.

Based on your training experience and background, these numbers and event may seem daunting or a fun challenge. While I mainly work with Army Special Forces candidates, I am currently working with one candidate in the BORTAC pipeline.

Interested in 1-on-1 coaching? I accept a select few athletes, with slots becoming available as candidates ship out. You can apply for coaching here.

Read More: Does The CIA Have Special Forces? How To Apply, Prepare, And Qualify?

Phase 2: Selection Course (Breakout)

Breakout aims to screen and evaluate candidates’ reactions under extreme fatigue and pressure. This phase lasts several days and pushes candidates to their limits. By the end of it, you’ll know if you have the fortitude and physical prowess required for BORTAC.

This includes intensive physical and mental stress tests to ensure you’re eligible for the high-stakes situation at BORTAC.

Additionally, you’ll have non-stop physical activities and evaluations. You’ll also be subjected to sleep and food deprivation to artificially create the situations you would be dealing with on missions.

Phase 3: Field Training Exercise

The final part of the selection course includes a field training exercise where candidates are tested on what they have learned. This exercise simulates real-world special operations missions to evaluate:

• Tactical Decision Making
• Team Coordination
• Operational Effectiveness under Stress

Phase 4: Certification Course

Advanced Tactical Training: Candidates who successfully clear the first three phases move on to the eight-week certification course. This phase involves intense training in

• Small Unit Tactics
• Close Quarter Combat (CQC)
• Interdictions and Vehicle Assaults
• Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance
• Assault Climber Techniques
• Operational Planning
• Advanced Weapon Skills
• Defensive Tactics
• Airmobile Operations

Breaching Certification: You will also receive a level 1 breaching certification, which includes training in:

• Ballistic Breaching
• Mechanical Breaching
• Exothermic Breaching

BORTAC Training Program

The training program for BORTAC is designed to prepare you for the demanding and high-risk operations of this elite tactical unit.

Initial Training

The initial training program lasts approximately eight weeks and is conducted at the US Border Patrol training facility in Ft. Bliss, Texas.

Specialized Training Modules

Tactical Skills and Weapons Training

• Small Unit Tactics: Training in the coordination and execution of operations involving small teams.
• Close Quarters Combat (CQC): Techniques for engaging threats in confined spaces.
• Advanced Marksmanship: Precision shooting and firearms proficiency with various weapons, including the M4 carbine, SIG Sauer P229, and Glock 19.

Medical and Emergency Response Training

• Basic and Advanced First Aid: Techniques for stabilizing and treating injuries in the field.
• Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC): Specialized medical training for providing care under fire.
• Emergency Response: Procedures for handling medical emergencies during operations.

Counter-Terrorism and High-Risk Operations

• Interdictions: Techniques for intercepting and stopping illegal activities.
• Vehicle Assaults: Methods for safely and effectively neutralizing threats in and around vehicles.
• Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance: Skills for monitoring suspects and avoiding detection.
• Assault Climber Techniques: Advanced climbing skills for operations in challenging terrains and urban environments.
• Operational Planning: Strategies for developing and executing tactical plans.

Field Training Exercises

Real-World Scenarios and Simulations

• Simulated Special Operations Missions: Realistic training missions replicating the conditions and challenges of actual BORTAC operations.
• Team-Based Operations: Exercises emphasizing teamwork, communication, and coordination among team members.

Team-Based Operations and Coordination

• Team Dynamics: Understanding roles and responsibilities within a team.
• Communication Skills: Techniques for maintaining clear and effective communication during operations.
• Coordination and Execution: Strategies for synchronizing actions and movements to achieve mission objectives.

Career Path and Salary in BORTAC

For someone who wants to join the BORTAC, I trust that you thoroughly understand what the job entails. Regardless, here’s a quick overview for you.

Salary and Benefits for BORTAC Agents

BORTAC agents are compensated according to the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with additional allowances for their specialized roles:

• Base Salary: Agents typically start at the GS-11 level, with opportunities to advance to GS-13 and higher.
  • GS-11 Range: $62,107 annually.
  • GS-12 Range: $74,441 annually.
  • GS-13 Range: Approximately $79,468 to $103,309 annually.
• Overtime Pay: BORTAC agents often receive overtime pay, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.
• Special Pay Adjustments: Additional compensation for hazardous duty, location-based cost of living adjustments, and administratively uncontrollable overtime (AUO).

In addition to competitive salaries, BORTAC agents enjoy a range of benefits and perks, including:

• Health Insurance
• Retirement Plans
• Life and Long-Term Care Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Professional Development
• Travel Opportunities

The data is sourced from CBP’s website.

Initial Assignments

As a newly trained BORTAC agent, you will be tasked with various high-risk and critical duties. These typically include counter-terrorism operations, high-risk arrests, hostage rescue, surveillance and reconnaissance, tactical training and support.

Career Advancement

BORTAC offers numerous opportunities for career advancement and specialization. As you gain experience, you can pursue roles such as:

• Team Leader
• Sniper/Observer
• Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist
• Tactical Instructor.
• Command Positions

BORTAC agents can also access ongoing education and training programs to enhance their skills and knowledge. These programs include:

• Advanced Tactical Courses
• Leadership Development
• Cross-Training Opportunities

Preparation for BORTAC Physical Tests

You HAVE to engage in self-made tactical fitness programs or with a training regimen like ours.

1. Cardio/Endurance Focus:

• Bigger Individuals: Focus on aerobic conditioning. Repeat cardio sessions and add more miles as you go to help build the necessary aerobic base. Unfortunately, rhabdomyolysis is common during these tests, so we must do our best to actively avoid it.
• Thinner Individuals: Do exercises to build muscle mass and strength, essential for handling the heavy rucking and equipment typical of BORTAC operations.

Read More: How To Run Faster, Longer And Harder For Special Forces

2. Injury Prevention

Endurance athletes can minimize the risk of injuries by focusing on strength training while maintaining cardio conditioning through running, rucking, and swimming.

A long-term, progressive training program is key to success in preparing for BORTAC. You should engage in a structured regimen lasting at least 12-24 weeks, gradually increasing in intensity and volume.

3. High-Volume Training

Aim to build a foundation that can handle the intensity of selection. While it’s unnecessary to regularly hit 80 miles per week, you should work towards high-mileage weeks as a gut check.

Consider splitting workouts into multiple sessions throughout the day to build the required work capacity.

4. Load-Bearing and Team Building

Rucking with heavy loads (70-80 pounds) and engaging in team-building exercises that add extra weight (50-100 pounds) are crucial.

Of course, this was a very generalized approach for preparation. You can apply for 1 on 1 coaching with me – a personalized plan tailored to your needs and current physical condition.

Important Resources

I have given quite a few links and resources throughout this article, so many that I think they deserve their own space.

You can search for any available jobs / openings on the USAJOBS website.

Detailed information on study manuals and prep guides is available on CBP website’s resources page.

The CBP website also has a vast section of applicant resources.

You can also connect to a recruiter from CBP for your application.

How Many BORTAC Agents Are There?

The exact number of BORTAC agents is classified, but the unit is known to be relatively small compared to other federal tactical units. This small size allows for greater flexibility and rapid deployment capabilities.

What Guns Do BORTAC Use?

BORTAC agents typically use the M4 carbine, a versatile and reliable weapon for close-quarters combat and longer-range engagements. They also use the SIG Sauer P229 and Glock 19 as standard sidearms.

For specialized operations, agents might carry sniper rifles such as the Remington 700 or the Barrett M107 for long-range precision.