Diplomatic Security Service

About this Agency

The Diplomatic Security Service is also known as several other names including: United States Diplomatic Security Service and the Bureau of Diplomatic Security. The Diplomatic Security Service is the federal law enforcement agency of the United States Department of State.

The main responsibility of the Diplomatic Security Service is to provide a safe environment for the conduct of United States foreign policy. It is important to note that it is the only agency with a presence in nearly every country.

All Diplomatic Security Service agents have the ability to make arrests, serve warrants, and carry firearms. Agents are also trained to protect the United States Secretary of State and other foreign relation employees.

According to the State Department’s website, the Diplomatic Security Service is "a world leader in international investigations, threat analysis, cyber security, counterterrorism, security technology, and protection of people, property, and information."

The Diplomatic Security Service has changed names and responsibilities many times over the years. The agency was first formed in 1916 as the Bureau of Secret Intelligence. At this time, there are approximately 1,500 Diplomatic Security Service agents.

Hiring Process and Eligibility

Qualifications for becoming a Diplomatic Security Service agent include:

1. United States citizen.
2. Bachelor’s degree at time of appointment.
3. Between the ages of 21 and 37 at time of appointment.
4. Successful completion of oral and written assessment.
5. Completion of a background check.
6. Successfully pass a medical exam.
7. Pass numerous physical fitness tests.
8. Valid United States driver’s license.
9. Willingness to travel the world.
10. Successful completion of a six month training program.

Contact Information