The Customs Brokers Licensing Regulation ( CBLR ) Examination is a competitive exam in India for individuals aspiring to become authorised customs brokers.
Customs Broker
Authorised individuals who assist importers and exporters in compliance with laws and regulations, handling inward and outward processing of vessels, import and export of goods, and audits at customs stations.
Customs Brokers Licensing Regulation (CBLR) Examination
The CBLR exam is conducted by the NACIN, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs ( CBIC ) and assesses candidates on their knowledge of customs laws, regulations, and procedures related to import and export.
Who can Apply?
Law graduates, corporate lawyers looking for a career shift, in-house counsels, and professionals like Company Secretaries ( CS ), Chartered Accountants ( CA ), Cost & Management Accountants ( ACMA/FCMA ), and MBAs interested in cross-border trade activities can apply.
Challenges and Preparation
Study Time Constraints – Full-time professionals struggle to find dedicated study hours.
High Competition – With a pass percentage of only 10-12%, candidates must avoid errors and focus on high-weightage areas.
Syllabus Memorization – A vast syllabus requires strategic study plans and mentorship.
Examination Changes – Frequent format changes and lack of past papers increase uncertainty.
Specialised Subjects – The exam covers unique subjects like Customs Law, requiring focused preparation.
CBLR Exam Question Papers for Preparation and Admit Card
A dummy Question paper for the purpose of awareness of candidates will be made available on the NACIN websites under the icon/tab <GSTP/CBLR Exam>. A link to download the admit card will also be provided therein.
Admit cards shall also be sent by email to eligible applicants 12 days in advance before the date of examination.
The pattern of the examination will be computer based written examination, followed by an oral examination.
Written Examination
The written examination will be a Computer Based Examination with Multiple Choice Questions. Questions will be bilingual i.e. in English and Hindi.
Candidates have the option to answer either in English or Hindi. Other details are as follows:
No. of questions : 150
Time duration : Two and half hours (10:30 hrs to 13:00 hrs)
Marking scheme : +3 for each correct answer
-1 for each incorrect answer
Maximum marks: 450
Qualifying marks : 270 (60%)
Those qualifying in the written examination will have to appear in oral examination in terms of Regulation 6 of the Customs Brokers Licensing Regulations, 2018, as amended. The pass percentage marks for qualifying in the oral examination will be 60%.
For any query, please visit the websites (www.cbic.gov.in and www.nacin.gov.in) or contact the nearest Customs Commissionerate/ NACIN, Faridabad @ e-mail ID- nacin.cblr@icegate.gov.in
Benefits of Clearing CBLR Examination:
Recession-proof Career: Customs clearance remains active even during economic downturns.
Pan-India Operation: Brokers can operate across major and minor ports in India.
International Exposure: Interaction with trade intermediaries and knowledge of government initiatives.
Lucrative Earnings: Service fees per container cleared and additional consultancy fees.
Conclusion
The CBLR Examination is a gateway for professionals to enter the field of customs brokerage, offering a stable and lucrative career. With strategic preparation and guidance, candidates can overcome the challenges and succeed in this competitive exam.
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