Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol Agent (CBP BPA) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success

The correct answer focuses on IDENT hits as a common reason for a referral for soft secondary. IDENT refers to the Automated Biometric Identification System, which is used to identify individuals through biometric data collection, such as fingerprints. If a traveler triggers an IDENT hit, it means that their biometric information has matched a record in a database, which may indicate potential concerns that require additional investigation. This can include possible criminal history, outstanding warrants, or other issues that could warrant further scrutiny during border processing.

The other options do not inherently indicate a reason for additional investigation. Excess luggage might raise a question about compliance with regulations, but it doesn't suggest an immediate security risk. Long wait times could simply be a function of busy traffic at the border and do not present an individual reason for further checks. Frequent flier status may only indicate that an individual travels often and does not imply any level of risk or need for closer inspection. Thus, IDENT hits stand out as a significant factor triggering a soft secondary inspection.