How to Become a Professional Bail Bondsman

A bail bondsman writes the bond for the release of a defendant. The bail bondsman works with a bounty hunter to secure a defendant to meeting court dates. In order to become a bail bondsman, a license is required, as well as educational courses depending on your state’s Department of Insurance. Being a bail bondsman offers a challenging but lucrative opportunity for an individual interested in assisting defendants to resolve legal issues.

Instructions

1. Identify your state's required educational courses to complete and start the process for a bail bond class license. Contact the Department of Insurance in your particular state to determine schools in your area.

2. Schedule a date to take the educational courses for the license 60 days before your anticipated date of starting your services. Provide current photo identification at the time of taking the educational courses.

3. Contact your state Department of Insurance to complete a producer application. Attach your bail license or insurance qualification certificate with your agent application. You should receive your bail license or insurance qualification certificate within 60 days of completing your state's required educational courses.

4. Mail your completed producer application and license to the state Department of Insurance. Make at least two copies of the application and license before sending the package.

5. Verify restrictions or mandatory compliance with the Department of Insurance in your state. Each state has specific statutes for bail bondsmen to follow before issuing a bond.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you have available the personal assets to post a bond.