Yes, some questions are repeated across different Customs Broker Exams. Sometimes the questions are similar, but they can also be almost identical. However, it is really important to note that though questions may be repeated, their correct answers may be different for different test administrations. This is because the regulations and HSN tariff are often amended from time to time with the result that the answers may change for the same question, depending on the tariff and regulations in force, at different points of time.

Here is an example of a question that was asked in the October 2007 and October 2009 Tests with different correct answers in the two tests. In 2007, the correct answer for this question was that the effective duty rate was 0.8 cents/kilogram. However, by 2009, the tariff had been amended and so the correct answer had changed to Free.

October 2007

  1. What is the duty rate for NAFTA-originating fresh cucumbers from Mexico released under a special permit for immediate delivery on February 23, 2007 if the entry summary is filed in proper form on March 8, 2007?

    A. Free
    B. 4.2 cents/kilogram
    C. 5.6 cents/kilogram
    D. 0.8 cents/kilogram
    E. 6.6 cents/kilogram

Answer: 31 D 19 CFR 142.21; 142.22; HTS General Note 3(b)

October 5, 2009

  1. What is the duty rate for NAFTA-originating fresh cucumbers from Mexico released under a special permit for immediate delivery on February 23, 2009 if the entry summary is filed in proper form on March 8, 2009?

    A. 1.5 cents/kilogram
    B. 4.2 cents/kilogram
    C. 5.6 cents/kilogram
    D. 6.6 cents/kilogram
    E. Free

Answer: 16 E 19 CFR 142.21; 142.22; HTS 0707.00.4000

The current tariff reads:

0707.00 Cucumbers, including gherkins, fresh or chilled:

0707.00.40 00 If entered during the period from March 1 to April 30, inclusive, in any year (here entry summary is filed on March 8)

The column special rate of duty reads: Free (A, AU, BH, CA, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, MX, OM, P, PA, PE, SG)

As per General Note 3(c) Products Eligible for Special Tariff Treatment.

Programs under which special tariff treatment may be provided, and the corresponding symbols for such programs as they are indicated in the “Special” sub column, are as follows:

North American Free Trade Agreement:

Goods of Canada, under the terms of general note 12 to this schedule…………………….CA

Goods of Mexico, under the terms of general note 12 to this schedule……………………..MX

Since MX is included in the column for special rate of duty of Free under 0707.00.40 00, the applicable rate of duty is currently Free.