How to Become a Licensed Bounty Hunter in California

Bounty Hunter Accessories

California Bounty Hunters are officially referred to as Bail Fugitive Recovery Agents. A Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent either contracts with, or is employed by, a bail bond company. When a person does not make a court appearance, and has a bond in place, it is the Recovery Agent who searches for and apprehends the person, often called a "skip". Recovery Agents make a commission of what the bond is worth. In California, there are strict laws that must be followed in order for a Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent to be legally licensed and able to work. The following are guidelines that tell how to gain initial licensure. Keep in mind that there are continuing education requirements that change over time and with the implementation of new state laws.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Yellow pages, or California business directory
• Minimum age of 18 years
• Driver's license or state issued ID
• Clean criminal background- no felonies
• Money and time to attend 52 hours of certification, and to pay for Live Scan fingerprinting

Instructions

1. Ensure that you meet the legal requirements of the state of California. You must be at least 18 years of age and have a clean background with no felony convictions. Also, you will need to have the time and monetary resources to cover your own expenses.

2. Research various Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent training programs. Call and inquire about when and where classes are held, and the associated cost.

3. Check training programs listed by the California Department of Insurance. If you do not see the training program listed, call the Department of Insurance to inquire about the program. For the training program to be valid, and certification legal, it must be approved by the California Department of Insurance.

4. Pay for training and attend 40 required hours of Power of Arrest certification. Receive your certificate and make several copies for your records.

5. Pay for and attend 12 hours of classroom education. Receive your certificate and make several copies.

6. Locate a Live Scan fingerprinting location. Make an appointment to be fingerprinted. Request a background check. Fees and hours of operation vary by location.

7. Apply for a contract as a Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent. Keep a copy of your certification on your person when working.

Tips & Warnings

• California State University campuses with on-site police departments provide LiveScan fingerprinting service.

• Refer to the California Codes Penal Code Section 1299-1299.14 for the official state laws regarding Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent licensing and employment.

• Bounty Hunters may encounter dangerous situations and criminals. It is a very unpredictable line of work, and laws must be recognised at all times, in order to maintain a Bail Fugitive Recovery Agent license.

• California law does not allow Bounty Hunters to carry any type of firearm, although pepper spray can be carried.

Resources

• California Department of Insurance- Approved Certification Programs
• California Department of Justice- Fingerprinting Information
• Fugitive Recovery Network
• California Bail Agents Association