How do you become a US air marshal?
Sophia Terry
Updated on January 04, 2026
Steps for Becoming an Air Marshal
- Attend a degree program and/or gain experience in a related field.*
- Apply for an air marshal job on the USAJOBS website.
- Be interviewed and perform other assessments.
- Submit to fingerprinting and a background investigation.
- Take and pass a drug screening.
- Take and pass a medical exam.
How much money does a US air marshal make?
Salary Ranges for Federal Air MarshalsThe salaries of Federal Air Marshals in the US range from $12,656 to $339,013 , with a median salary of $61,150 . The middle 57% of Federal Air Marshals makes between $61,150 and $152,668, with the top 86% making $339,013.
Is there a US marshal on every flight?
Air marshals can be found on approximately 5% of flights. The main reason why there aren't air marshals on every flight is because it simply wouldn't be cost-effective (the cost for each air marshal is estimated to be around $3,300 per flight).Do air marshals fly first class?
Most flights with an air marshal will have only one. Under some circumstances, however, they may work in pairs. At one time, air marshals sat in first class. On today's flights, they primarily sit in the last row of economy class.Is it hard to be a US marshal?
Becoming a Deputy U.S. MarshalIt takes very dedicated and motivated people to make their way through the hiring process and pass the rigorous training academy. The salary and benefits are well worth the hard work, though, as are the rewards of knowing you'll be working in a challenging and important career.