How to Become a Bail Bondsman in California

Bail bonds work is both challenging and rewarding. While it is a high-risk career, you have the potential for great financial reward. As a bail bondsman, you will supply defendants with the necessary funds to be released for a short time before they must appear before the court system. The state of California allows three types of bail licenses: bail agent, bail permitee and bail solicitor. Here are the steps to becoming a bail bondsman with any of these three licenses in California.

Instructions

1. Provide evidence of residence within California for at least the last two years. This means you will need to prove you have been a resident of California for two years. You can do this by supplying leases or documentation of your housing.

2. Provide evidence that you are of good moral character and reputation. Be prepared to supply references, both professional and personal.

3. Provide evidence that you do not have a felony or misdemeanor conviction. You will undergo a background check, and you must have a record clean of these types of convictions in order to become a bail bondsman.

4. File a surety bond with the Commissioner of Insurance for $1,000.00 (one thousand dollars).

5. Submit an application to the Commissioner of Insurance.

6. Notify the Commissioner of Insurance of your appointments with any insurance providers. You must be appointed with insurance providers before you are able to write any bonds. Look for companies that work in your state.

7. Take the 12-hour education course. Attendance is mandatory, so do not miss any days of course work.

8. Take and pass the Commissioner's exam.

9. Submit payment of licensing fees. This is typically done by check or money order.

10. File all annual notices to keep your license current. Pay all fees as due dates arise. Missing deadlines can cause a lapse in your ability to do your work, and could result in additional fines or fees.

11. Set up your office space. You may want to set up a location close to the courthouse for more referrals. Hire employees and set up documentation systems.

12. Begin networking with other agents and with the court clerk. Your reputation will take you far in this line of work. The more advertising you can do, the better.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay compliant with the Insurance Commissioner. A disruption in business could be disastrous.

Resources

• California bail laws
• More information from the California Department of Insurance