Requirements to Become a Customs Broker in Mexico 2026

To become a customs broker (agente aduanal) in Mexico, you must obtain a license (patente) granted by the SAT (Tax Administration Service) under Article 159 of Mexico's Customs Law. Requirements include: being a Mexican citizen by birth, holding a professional degree, having no felony convictions, at least 3 years of customs experience, passing both a knowledge exam and a psychometric exam administered by the SAT, and demonstrating financial solvency. The license authorizes you to represent importers and exporters before customs for merchandise clearance.

Legal Requirements (Art. 159 Customs Law)

• Be a Mexican citizen by birth with full exercise of civil rights.
• No felony convictions and not currently subject to criminal proceedings.
• Be current on all tax obligations.
• Not be a public servant, nor have been one in the 2 years prior to the application.
• Not have had a customs broker license previously revoked or canceled.
• Hold a professional degree or equivalent in areas determined by the SAT.

Academic Requirements

A bachelor's degree is required. The most common fields among customs brokers are: International Trade, International Business, Law, Business Administration, Public Accounting, and International Relations. There is no single mandatory degree, but the SAT may establish specific knowledge area requirements. Additionally, a graduate degree or specialized certifications (such as those from CAAAREM) can strengthen your profile.

The Licensing Process

• Public call — The SAT publishes periodic calls (no fixed schedule) in the Official Gazette and on its website.
• Application and documentation — Submit application with all supporting documents to AGACE.
• Knowledge exam — Written test covering customs legislation, tariff classification, customs valuation, non-tariff regulations, trade agreements, and clearance procedures.
• Psychometric exam — Evaluates aptitudes and competencies required for the role.
• Interview — Some processes include an interview with SAT officials.
• Resolution — The SAT issues a resolution granting or denying the license, assigning a license number and home port.

Customs Broker vs. Customs Agency

Since the 2018 reforms to the Customs Law, two figures coexist: the customs broker (individual with a personal license) and the customs agency (legal entity with collective authorization). A customs agency can be formed by one or more licensed brokers and operates under a collective authorization. Both are empowered to perform customs clearance. The regulatory trend points toward greater institutionalization of the service through agencies.

How Camtom Empowers Customs Brokers with Technology

Whether you are a practicing customs broker or working toward your license, Camtom is the platform that helps you operate more efficiently. Our AI automatically classifies products under the TIGIE, generates electronic documentation (including the MVE mandatory from June 2026), and verifies regulatory compliance. Over 100 customs agencies already use Camtom to reduce time and errors in their operations.

Are you a customs broker or aspiring to become one? Try Camtom for free and discover how technology transforms customs clearance.