Become a bail bond agent

What is a bail bond agent?
If an individual happens to find themselves in jail, a bail bond agent would be a key individual to a speedy release, of course after the bail has been made. The duties of a bail bond agent have increased over the time to include preparing for arraignments outside of the primary duty of arranging bail payment.

What is the difference between a bail bond agent and a bounty hunter?
A bail bond agent helps individuals to be released from jail by bail payment. A bounty hunter normally is responsible for finding a person through a roundabout way. A bounty hunter, in states where they are allowed, they have the authority to re-arrest by entering into their private property. Yes, if you are a fugitive, a bounty hunter can enter into your property with warning or warrant, re-arrest you and transport you back to jail.

Why are bail bond agents used?
Bail bonds agents are handy because they assist individuals/families in paying a portion (usually 10%) of the bail to have friend/ family member released before trial. The client will assume additional charges outside of the bail payment in compensation the bail bond agent.

Is formal training required?
Generally, there is no formal training required. Most states that require license are looking at a person's background and an insurance policy. There may a written examination to test a person's knowledge on the law and limitations of their license, but usually formal training is not required in most states.

Does it matter the type of training I receive, if any?
As with any profession, there are formal and informal methods of training available and/or needed. The process of becoming a bail bond agent is determined primarily by the state the interested individual lives in. States vary on the qualifications needed to obtain the license.

Can I attend classes to help me prepare as a bond agent?
Of course, there are classes, seminars and evens schools that specialize in preparing bail bond agents. A person can choose to take these classes to help towards their license or purely to gain formal knowledge and connections.

What is the general process to obtaining a license?
The general process includes ensuring the individual is over the age of 18, be recognized by the state's Department of Insurance, obtain bondsman surety insurance and prepare and pass necessary examinations. There may be additional requirements based on the state you apply for your license. An interested individual should contact their local government and enquire about the bail bond agent licensing process.

What states can you write a bail bond in?
Not all states will allow individuals to write a bail bond. In Wisconsin, Oregon, Illinois and Kentucky, both bounty hunting and bonding has been outlawed. Florida, North and South Carolina have some strict regulations you must follow to become and remain a bail bond agent. The following states require a license (the process differs in each state): Indiana, Nevada, Mississippi, South Dakota, Connecticut, Arizona, Utah, Iowa, Louisiana, California and West Virginia.