Law Enforcement Careers

If you’re wondering how to become a DEA agent, you must first learn how to get into the law enforcement field or legal system because most Drug Enforcement Administration agents have some experience in these areas before they join the DEA force. In order to work in the field of enforcing controlled substance laws and bringing violators to justice, you must have some experience with law enforcement or the legal system, and you have to stand out from the crowd. The DEA doesn’t accept just anybody, but with the right degrees and qualifications you might just have what it takes.

There are certain degrees needed to be prepared to enter the drug enforcement profession. Most DEA agents received a criminal justice degree or completed the policy academy training in order to become a police officer. You will also have more career options if you get additional language training in Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Spanish or other foreign tongues. The most important traits that anyone should have if they are wondering how to become a DEA agent are good physical shape, good mental health and excellent hearing, as there will be a physical and psychological examination. You must be between the ages of 21 to 37 to enter the agency.

Also, before you can get a job with the DEA, you must undergo a drug test, polygraph test and background examination. All the required tests could take up to one year to complete. If you pass them, you will be sent to the DEA training academy in Quantico, Virginia for 16 weeks of grueling training. Once you complete all these challenging requirements, though, there will be many benefits to the job. The salary is the biggest perk, as DEA agents entering the service as a GS7 or GS9 will earn between $49,746 and $55,483, and there is a possibility to earn as much as $92, 592 after four years of experience and progression to GS13.

It’s always a good idea to talk with experienced DEA agents who can provide additional valuable career information about how to become a DEA agent. It is a challenging career, but there are also many perks and personal rewards.