DEA Agent

How to Become a DEA Agent

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) special agents are an important part of our criminal justice system. DEA agents have the difficult task of enforcing America’s controlled substance regulations and laws. A DEA agent is in charge of dismantling drug trafficking organizations, prosecuting those engaged in drug trafficking, and destroying the horrendous infrastructure that allows drug trafficking to be profitable all over the world.

DEA agents conduct complex crime investigations, monitor known criminals, and use dangerous but effective covert operations to interfere with the running of illegal drug rings. To get a clearer picture of what the job entails, you will want to attend a DEA orientation session at a local DEA field office. If there are none in your area, you can contact the national office at (800) DEA-4288.

DEA Agent Education Requirements

DEA agents are required to have a bachelor’s degree. DEA agents who have degrees in criminal justice, police science, accounting, finance, economics, a foreign language, or another related field are preferred.

DEA agents must also be:

  • In top physical condition
  • A United States citizen
  • Between the ages of 21 and 36

Potential DEA agents will be given a physical examination and must also be able to pass a background check.

DEA agent applicants receive further training at a government facility in located Quantico, Virginia that is also used by the FBI to train their agents. This intense 16-week program includes instruction in law, report writing, drug recognition, ethics, and leadership. Because of the serious nature of the job, DEA agents are also trained in weapon safety, marksmanship, deadly force decision-making, and tactical shooting.

Job Outlook for DEA Agents

Job opportunities look plentiful for DEA agents. A DEA agent’s salary starts between $49,746 and $55,483 depending on experience and education. In just four years, DEA agents can be eligible to make up to $92,592 annually.

Sources: “DEA Special Agents- Questions and Answers”, US Drug Enforcement Administration, http://www.justice.gov/dea/job/agent/faqs.html#question013
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition