F Card (Customs Broker License) - Information & Preparation Guide
The F Card is issued to individuals who wish to become licensed Customs Brokers (CBs) under the
Customs Brokers Licensing Regulations (CBLR), 2018, governed by the Customs Act, 1962.
Holding an F Card allows you to operate independently as a Customs Broker, handling
import-export clearances on behalf of clients.
Eligibility for F Card Exam (CBLE - Customs Broker Licensing Exam):
1. Educational Qualification - Must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university.
2. Work Experience - Minimum 2 years of experience in customs clearance operations (if not a
graduate).
3. Financial Solvency - A bank guarantee of Rs. 5 Lakhs may be required.
4. Citizenship - Must be an Indian citizen.
5. Age Limit - No specific age limit, but should be a working professional.
Exam Pattern (CBLE - Customs Broker Licensing Exam):
1. Written Examination (Objective & Descriptive) - 150 Marks
2. Oral Examination (Interview) - 50 Marks
Subjects Covered in the Exam:
- Customs Act, 1962
- Customs Tariff Act, 1975
- Foreign Trade Policy (FTP)
- GST & Allied Laws
- Shipping & Logistics Regulations
- Duty Structure & Exemptions
- Export-Import Documentation
- Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) & ICEGATE Procedures
Passing Criteria:
- Minimum 60 percent marks in the written exam to qualify for the oral exam.
- Final selection is based on the combined score of written & oral tests.
Preparation Strategy for F Card (CBLE) Exam:
1. Understand the syllabus - Read the Customs Act, CBLR, and FTP.
2. Use Official Resources:
- CBIC Website: www.cbic.gov.in
- ICEGATE Portal: www.icegate.gov.in
- Indian Trade Portal: www.indiantradeportal.in
3. Read Reference Books:
- "Customs Law Manual" by R.K. Jain
- "Guide to Customs Clearance" by M.L. Kachhawaha
- "Foreign Trade Policy & Handbook of Procedures"
4. Gain Practical Experience:
- Work with a licensed Customs Broker or Freight Forwarder.
- Learn about duty calculations, HS Code classification, and exemptions.
5. Solve Previous Year Question Papers:
- Attempt mock tests based on previous CBLE exams.
- Prepare for the oral exam by discussing customs laws with experienced professionals.
How to Apply for the F Card (CBLE) Exam?
1. The CBLE notification is released by CBIC and is usually held once a year.
2. Apply online through the CBIC or ICEGATE website.
3. Submit the required documents, educational qualifications, and experience proofs.
4. Appear for the written exam, followed by the oral examination if qualified.
5. If selected, you receive the Customs Broker License (F Card) after completing the required
formalities.
Career Scope after F Card (Customs Broker License):
- Start your own Customs Brokerage Firm.
- Work with import-export businesses, logistics companies, and shipping firms.
- Expand into international freight forwarding and supply chain management.
- Provide customs consulting services to exporters and importers.
For more details, visit your local Customs Office or CBIC website.