The Texas Application for Customs Broker License (Form AP-168) is a crucial document for individuals seeking to operate as licensed customs brokers in Texas. This form allows those already licensed by the United States Customs Service to obtain their Texas Customs Broker License, which is essential for issuing export certifications. To get started on your application, click the button below.
The Texas Application for Customs Broker License, commonly referred to as Form AP-168, plays a crucial role for individuals seeking to operate as customs brokers within the state. This application is specifically designed for those who have already obtained a license from the United States Customs Service and wish to expand their operations by securing a Texas Customs Broker License. To successfully complete the application, candidates must provide a copy of their U.S. Customs Broker license and adhere to specific guidelines outlined by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. The form covers essential information, including the applicant's legal name, business locations, and authorized employees who will handle customs transactions. Additionally, it outlines the fees associated with obtaining and renewing the license, which varies depending on the time of year, as well as bond requirements to ensure compliance with state regulations. The form also emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate records and adhering to security protocols, reflecting the responsibilities that come with being a licensed customs broker. With the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, applicants can navigate the process smoothly and ensure they meet all necessary criteria to operate legally in Texas.
Texas Application for Customs Broker License
General Information
Who May Submit This Application
If you have been licensed by the United States Customs Service, you may submit this application to receive your Texas Customs Broker License. You must include a copy of your United States Customs Broker’s license.
Definitions
United States Customs Broker - A person licensed by the United States Customs Service to act as a custom house broker.
Texas Customs Broker License - The license issued to the United States Customs Broker, to allow the broker to issue export certifications. A license is required for each business location.
Authorized Employee - “Authorized employee” means an employee of a customs broker:
(A)who is authorized by the broker to perform customs transactions on behalf of the broker;
(B)who is compensated by the broker with a regular salary or wages;
(C)who is under the direct control and supervision of the broker; and
(D)from whose salary or wages the broker is required to and actually does deduct and withhold a tax under federal law. Business Location - Each place of business of the broker where export certification forms are fully or partially prepared. Export Certification Stamp - Stamp that is affixed to the export certification form.
Broker Fees
Broker Annual License Fees (The Customs Broker License expires on December 31 of each calendar year).
License must be renewed on or before December 31 of each year.
Annual License Fee Schedule
1st Quarter (January - March)
$300.00
3rd Quarter (July - September)
$150.00
2nd Quarter (April - June)
$225.00
4th Quarter (October - December)
$ 75.00
NOTE: A license fee is due for each business location where export certifications will be issued.
Bond Fee
The amount of the bond or security required is $5,000. (The Comptroller may require Brokers to post additional $1,000 bond or security for each location, if the Comptroller considers it necessary to ensure payment of tax, penalty and fine amounts.)
Stamp Fee
The Comptroller shall charge $1.60 for each stamp.
For Assistance
If you have any questions about this application, or any other related matter, contact your nearest Texas State Comptroller’s office. You may also call (800) 252-5555 or (512) 463-4600. Spanish speaking assistance is available upon request.
General Instructions
•Please type or print.
•Do not separate pages.
•Fill in all blanks and answer all questions completely and fully.
•Completed application and payment (made payable to State Comptroller) should be mailed to:
Comptroller of Public Accounts
111 E. 17th St.
Austin, TX 78774-0100
NOTE: No export certifications may be issued until you provide a copy of your United States Customs Broker’s License, this application has been approved and your Texas Customs Broker License has been issued.
FEDERAL PRIVACY ACT - Disclosure of your Social Security number is required and authorized under law, for the purpose of tax administration and identification of any individual affected by applicable law, 42 U.S.C. 405(c)(2)(C)(i);Tex. Govt. Code 403.011 and 403.078. Release of information on this form in response to a public information request will be governed by the Public Information Act, Chapter 552, Government Code, and applicable federal law.
You have certain rights under Ch.559, Government Code, to request, review and correct information we have on file about you. Contact us at the address or phone numbers listed on this form.
AP-168-1 (Rev.8-11/5)
Completing the Texas Application for Customs Broker License (Form AP-168) is a crucial step for licensed customs brokers seeking to operate in Texas. By following these steps, you can ensure that your application is filled out accurately and submitted correctly.
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Texas Comptroller’s office. If approved, you will receive your Texas Customs Broker License, allowing you to issue export certifications. Remember, you cannot issue any export certifications until your application has been processed and your license has been issued.
The Texas AP 168 form, also known as the Texas Application for Customs Broker License, is a document required for individuals who wish to obtain a Texas Customs Broker License. This license allows licensed customs brokers to issue export certifications for merchandise being exported from the United States. It is essential for anyone operating as a customs broker in Texas to complete and submit this form.
Only individuals who have been licensed by the United States Customs Service can submit the Texas AP 168 form. Applicants must include a copy of their United States Customs Broker’s license along with the application. This ensures that only qualified individuals can operate as customs brokers in Texas.
There are several fees involved in obtaining and maintaining a Texas Customs Broker License:
It is important to note that these fees apply to each business location where export certifications will be issued.
The Texas Customs Broker License must be renewed annually by December 31. To renew, brokers must submit the renewal application along with the appropriate fee. Failure to renew on time may result in the inability to issue export certifications until the license is renewed.
Applicants must provide several key pieces of documentation when submitting the Texas AP 168 form, including:
It is crucial to ensure that all sections of the application are filled out completely and accurately to avoid delays in processing.
Licensed customs brokers in Texas have several responsibilities, including:
Failure to comply with these responsibilities may lead to suspension or revocation of the license.
If you have questions regarding the Texas AP 168 form or the licensing process, you can contact the Texas State Comptroller’s office. The office can be reached at:
For specific inquiries, visiting the nearest Comptroller’s office is also an option.
Providing your Social Security number is mandatory for the Texas AP 168 form. This information is required for tax administration purposes and helps in identifying individuals under applicable law. Failure to provide this information may delay the processing of your application or result in its rejection.
Incomplete Information: One of the most common mistakes is not filling out all the required fields. Every blank must be completed, even if it seems irrelevant. Leaving any section blank can delay the processing of your application.
Incorrect License Copy: Applicants often forget to include a copy of their United States Customs Broker’s license. This document is essential for your application to be considered.
Wrong Fee Amount: Submitting an incorrect license fee is another frequent error. Be sure to check the fee schedule and ensure the correct amount is enclosed based on the time of year.
Failure to Sign: Some applicants neglect to sign the application. A signature is crucial as it confirms your agreement to the terms outlined in the document.
Improper Formatting: Using a P.O. Box or rural route for the business location is a common mistake. The form specifically requests a street address, which must be adhered to.
Missing Power of Attorney: If you have employees authorized to issue certifications, you must include a power of attorney for each one. Omitting this can lead to delays or rejections.
Neglecting Contact Information: Failing to provide a daytime phone number or email can hinder communication. Ensure these details are accurate and up-to-date.
Not Reviewing the Form: Skipping a final review of the application before submission can result in overlooked mistakes. Taking a moment to double-check can save time and frustration.
The Texas Application for Customs Broker License (AP-168) is an essential document for those seeking to operate as customs brokers in Texas. Along with this form, several other documents and forms may be required to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Below is a list of related forms and documents often used in conjunction with the AP-168.
These documents play a crucial role in the application process and in maintaining compliance with legal requirements for customs brokers in Texas. Ensuring that all necessary forms are completed and submitted can help streamline the licensing process and facilitate smoother operations in the customs brokerage field.
The Texas AP 168 form shares similarities with the Federal Customs Broker License Application (CBP Form 3347). Both documents require applicants to demonstrate their qualifications to act as customs brokers. They both necessitate proof of prior licensing, ensuring that applicants have met federal standards before seeking state-level approval. Additionally, both forms require a detailed disclosure of the applicant's business information, including locations and authorized employees, making it clear who will be operating under the broker's license.
Another related document is the Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit Application (Form 01-339). This application is essential for businesses operating in Texas that sell taxable goods or services. Similar to the AP 168, it requires detailed business information and identification of authorized personnel. Both forms emphasize the need for compliance with state regulations and the importance of maintaining accurate records, reflecting the responsibility of the applicant to uphold the law.
The Texas Business License Application also parallels the AP 168 form. Both documents serve as gateways for businesses to operate legally within Texas. They require applicants to provide comprehensive information about their business structure, ownership, and operational details. Furthermore, both forms emphasize the need for a physical business location and the necessity of permits or licenses to conduct specific activities, ensuring that businesses meet local and state requirements.
The Application for a Texas Limited Liability Company (LLC) is another document that bears similarities to the AP 168 form. Both applications require the disclosure of the business's legal name and address, along with information about the owners or members. They aim to establish a clear record of who is responsible for the business and ensure compliance with state laws. Additionally, both forms may require applicants to pay associated fees, reinforcing the financial commitment involved in legally establishing a business entity.
Lastly, the Texas Occupational License Application has comparable features to the AP 168 form. This application is necessary for individuals or businesses seeking to operate in regulated professions. Like the AP 168, it requires applicants to provide personal and business details, as well as proof of qualifications. Both documents emphasize the importance of adhering to state regulations and maintaining the integrity of the profession, ensuring that only qualified individuals are permitted to operate within their respective fields.
When filling out the Texas Application for Customs Broker License (Form AP-168), it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application is processed efficiently and correctly.
Below is a list of common misconceptions regarding the Texas AP 168 form, which is the application for a Customs Broker License: