Requirements for a Bail Bondsman License

Many states require a bail bondsman license of some sort in order for a person to either organize a bail bond company or to work for a bail bond company. The requirements differ from state to state, with some states, like Nebraska, having no licensing for bail bonds companies and others like forbid that forbid companies or individuals from making a profit from a person's incarceration. It's important to know how to determine what regulations are in force in your state before you seek a bail bond license.

• Find the proper state agency. In many states, the Department of Insurance is the agency in charge of licensing, regulations and other aspects relating to bail bonds companies. Sometimes it's a different agency, such as a specialized parole agency created in the state.
• Get rules, regulations. Once you find the proper agency, you should ask for all the rules and regulations pertaining to the bail bond industry, including specific steps on how to earn a bail bond license.

What Rules Should I Expect to Get a Bail Bondsman License

While they can vary from state to state, many of the rules and regulations for someone to enter the bail bond business aren't too dissimilar. Here are some of the basics that most states require:

• 18 or older. You must be "of the age of majority" in order to get a bail bondsman license in any state that requires licensing in the country. In some states, the minimum age is 21.
• State residency. Some states require that you have been a resident for a certain minimum period of state - often a year or two - in order to qualify for a bail bond license.
• Background check. Expect the state to look into your criminal background. You won't be allowed to work for or establish a bail bond company with a felony on your record in many states. Also, some states do not allow people associated with the criminal justice system, such as jailers or police officers, from also acting as bail bonds officials.
• Bail bond school. Some type of educational component is required in the majority of states that give out bail bondsman licenses. The specifics vary, with some most states requiring a certain number of hours that must be completed to qualify for a bail bondsman license.
• Bail bond exam. You also must pass an exam on bail bonds in many states in order to qualify for a bail bondsman license. The exam is often administered by a certified bail bond school. A list of approved schools - some states permit bail bond course over the Internet - is available from state officials that regular the industry.