Typical Day of a Special Agent - FBI, DEA, ATF, HSI

What does a Special Agent do in a typical day?

It's a great question that's tough to answer. It really depends on what agency you're working for, what part of the Country/world you're stationed in, what type of squad you're on, etc.

While there is no typical day, we try to answer that very question so you can have a basic understanding of what a Special Agent does.

[FormerFBISpecialAgent]

Great info folks - although there are lots of variables, I can attest that this generally reflects what I experienced in the FBI. Anyone interested in joining Federal law enforcement should digest this info (and let me state to everyone: the world doesn't revolve around the FBI ... the FBI is just one of several excellent Federal law enforcement entities; they all share common DNA and are worth considering applying to if you want this type of career). US Special Agent's channel has some great info (I have zero ties to this channel, just wanted to give a thumbs up for great info and content).

[CybrClric]

I’m a medical malpractice investigator, and this information is spot on.

[specialagentblog]

This is a very accurate overview of the "average day" for a special agent. Very well done.

[rennalybui]

Hi, I’m currently in college and studying psychology. I’ve been thinking of becoming a FBI special agent lately and it’s one of my career goals in the future. Thank you for the information!

[ayleenserenityy]

I am only 13 yearl old & I have always been interested in criminal work & investigation & all that so now I am just learning all about it so thank you for this video!

[Jillybear]

Honestly, this job sounds exaughsting. I'm glad that some folks are able to do this!!

[christopherpackham]

I watched this as I'm researching for character background. It was really interesting, but drives home how much of a persons life gets lost as the work is so demanding. Reminds me of my father's work as a Doctor. There was never really an "off" moment!

[kittytoebeans]

hi! i’m a student in university and becoming a special agent for the FBI is a dream waiting to come true. i’d love to see you guys post more videos!

[stephvandykeozzy]

Thank you for posting this video. It helped me to get ideas for a book.

[tipasefar]

Good evening to everyone!
How are you all doing?
Thank you very much for this video

[brandynjones]

How long would you say the typical report is? And I'm interested in becoming a DEA agent, or Marshal so do you know how heavily either agency relies on paperwork? Thanks

[danb]

If you haven't already improved it, a software engineer can study your forms/paperwork and help streamline the process. For instance integrating dictation software, or templates to prefill any common situations in forms (which are electronic now right??). The paperwork may be important but that doesn't mean the process of completing it needs to be cumbersome and time consuming.

[dickymo]

You talked about the GOV so how does that work do you get to pick any car that they have or do they have to just give you one and is gas and stuff like that paid for by the company?

[sarisatechasukij]

Regarding the paperwork and reports, is there a certain style it needs to be written in?
And about the exercise, what kind of exercises do agents do to stay in shape for working in the field?
Thank you kindly.

[Dagoodworks]

Is there any room for medical providers to become special agents ? I’m a military medic and now on my way to becoming physician assistant . Do you know if there is a way to combine my medical career with being a special agent ?

[ejohnehall]

Do you have a choice as to what specialized career you go into? like undercover operations or public affairs? I would really like to go into undercover operations, and how long do you have to be in before you get a specialized career?

[jacobavila]

I am an active duty military police officer, I am going to try and land a spot in CID since I heard they work with FBI frequently. And maybe socially network and make friends along the way for an application!

[runitupn]

What if you’ve served 4 years in the Air Force do you still need bachelors degree or can you get some sort of law enforcement experience then apply

[DREAMSWORLD]

Hey sir I have a question, I’m on my senior year of high school and I’m planing on getting my bachelors on criminal and justice degree, then I plan on working for the police force for 2-3 year to gain experience to be able to apply for the FBI. Do you think this is a good plan?

[theinvestorssquad]

Which gets more chance for field work, undercover, arrest operations etc. DEA or HSI/ICE ? ICE rarely has openings so would you say it's wiser to apply for CBP and then switch to HSI or just wait for open listing? Also once you choose one, how hard is it to change agencies?