How to Become a Bounty Hunter in California
In the state of California, bounty hunters are called bail agents. Their job is to ensure that criminal defendants on bail show up to their hearing, but most of the work involves tracking down bail jumpers and returning them to police custody. Many former law enforcement or military professionals find second careers working as bounty hunters. However, to become a California bounty hunter or bail agent, you must apply with the California Department of Insurance for a license.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Meet the applicant requirements, which include being at least 21 and an American citizen who is not currently a member of law enforcement. You must also be free of felonies in your past. Take 12 hours of pre-licensing classroom education with an accredited school.
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2
Fill out the proper paperwork, including the California State Bail Agent License Application, the Notice of Appointment form for every surety company you will work with and the Form List describing all of the forms you will use as a bounty hunter.
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3
Mail your forms with a check or money order of that totals $213 for each Notice of Appointment form and $42 for the exam fee addressed to The California Department of Insurance at P.O. Box 1120, Sacramento CA, 95812-1139.
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4
Pay a licensed fingerprint vendor to scan your fingerprints and submit them to the state of California for background testing.
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5
Pass the written exam that tests your knowledge of California penal codes, insurance codes and codes of regulations.
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1
Tips & Warnings
California offers the bail agent exam in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Sacramento locations. You choose testing location you want to go to on the bail agent location and receive the testing information via mail. If you fail the test, you have to pay another $42 to take the test again.
Any false statements made during the bail agent licensing process will result in your either being denied your license or having your license revoked if it has already been issued.
