Armed federal agents accompany each classified shipment. They operate tractors, escort vehicles, communications, and other convoy equipment.

Federal agents are authorized by the Atomic Energy Act to make warrantless arrests and carry firearms in the performance of their duties. They carry both a photo identification cards and a shield certifying their federal status. Federal agents are required to obey all traffic laws and will cooperate fully with law enforcement officers.

After careful screening and selection, federal agent trainees undergo a 20-week basic training course, during which they receive instruction in tractor-trailer driving, communications systems operation, and firearms.

Tests in operating procedures, physical fitness, driving, firearms and other job-related subjects must be passed in order to complete the training and be certified as a federal agent. Following recruit training, the federal agent spends the balance of the first year in on-the-job training. The first year of employment is probationary, which the federal agent must successfully complete to be retained.

Federal agents are given in-service training throughout their careers. These classes are designed to refresh and update the training taught during basic training, in addition to preparing agents for demonstrations or armed attacks. Subjects such as team tactics, terrorist tactics, and new adversary technology are taught. In addition, physical and firearm proficiency is tested.

Federal agents must continue to meet periodic qualification requirements relative to firearms physical fitness, and driving proficiency. They must also undergo and pass an annual examination for continued certification under the Department of Energy Personnel Assurance Program. In addition, federal agents are subject to randomized drug and alcohol testing.

If a federal agent fails to meet any of the minimum requirements necessary for agent certification, the individual is temporarily removed from active status and provided additional training until demonstrated performance reaches an acceptable level.