Want to Become a Drug Enforcement Agent (DEA)?

If you are an active law enforcement officer who is passionate about combating the harmful effects of drug trafficking and abuse, a career as a DEA agent might be for you.

The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association (MNOA) is an active resource for any law enforcement officer who wants to expand their knowledge and further their training in narcotics and drug enforcement.

Find out what it takes to join this elite group of law enforcement professionals. The MNOA officer’s resource guide will explore the qualifications and training required to become a DEA agent.

What Are the Steps and Requirements to Become a Drug Enforcement Officer?

A law enforcement officer must meet different federal requirements to become a Federal Drug Enforcement Agent. Besides basic eligibility requirements that all law enforcement officers must meet, a federal drug enforcement officer must meet the following criteria.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or law enforcement.
• Active Law enforcement experience is required

The DEA highly values law enforcement officers who are fluent in foreign languages or have prior experience dealing with crimes involving cybersecurity and accounting.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Drug Enforcement Officer

A DEA agent is a federal law enforcement officer who is tasked with investigating and enforcing the laws surrounding controlled and illegal substances.

As a federal drug enforcement agent, you can expect to work across multiple fields, including undercover operations, criminal investigations, and drug interdiction efforts. DEA agents often collaborate with local and state law enforcement agencies, including members of the MNOA, to dismantle drug trafficking organizations.

What to Expect During the DEA Hiring Process

The hiring process for DEA agents is rigorous and involves several steps that every law enforcement officer must complete to be considered for the position.
Online Application

• Each DEA applicant: Must submit their resume and qualifications through the USAJobs.gov
• Written Assessment: Each applicant must complete a written exam that evaluates logical reasoning, judgment, and decision-making skills.
• Physical Fitness Testing: Every DEA applicant must meet or exceed the strength, endurance, and agility standards for drug enforcement agents.
• Oral Interview Assessment: Each applicant is assessed for character, professionalism, and ability to handle high-pressure situations during a panel interview.
• Medical and Psychological Evaluations: These assessments ensure candidates are mentally and physically fit for the demands of the role of drug enforcement agents.
• Federal Background Investigation: A thorough review of each applicant’s personal and professional history.

Although becoming a drug enforcement agent can be difficult, the career path and opportunities that come with it are extremely rewarding for the officers and the communities they protect.

What Kind of Training is Conducted at the DEA Academy?

If a candidate is successful and accepted into the drug enforcement program, they will be sent to the DEA Training Academy located in Quantico, Virginia. The academy training program is an 18-week program which includes:

• Firearms training
• Tactical driving
• Surveillance techniques
• Legal and ethical instruction
• Physical fitness conditioning

After completing DEA training academy, graduates are ready to be sworn in as DEA Special Agents and begin their assignments.DEA agents have a variety of career paths to explore once they graduate from the academy, including special investigations, forensic science, diversion control, and even international assignments.

The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association is Here to Assist You!

Becoming a DEA agent requires determination, discipline, and a passion for justice. Whether you’re just starting your law enforcement career or looking to take your expertise to the federal level, the MNOA is here to support you.

The Missouri Narcotic Officers Association is critical in partnering with local and federal agencies by assisting Missouri DEA applicants and current DEA agents.By fostering partnerships, offering Narcotics Training opportunities, and sharing resources, MNOA is proud to stand alongside future DEA agents in the fight against drug-related crime.

For more information about DEA careers, Contact the MNOA for guidance and support.