How to Become a Bounty Hunter in Mississippi

Bail enforcement agents (also known as bounty hunters) are state-authorized agents of bail bonding companies who ensure that the people on bail attend their court dates. Most of a bounty hunter's job consists of tracking down defendants who have fled from prosecution or "jumped bail." In Mississippi, you can't work as a bounty hunter until you have a license from the Mississippi Department of Insurance.

Instructions

1. Complete 40 credit-hours of pre-licensing education with an accredited organization.

   You must receive eight hours of continuing education every year with a total of 16 hours per 2-year licensing period.

2. Go to your local police department and have it take a full set of fingerprints and photograph from you. Fees may vary depending on the police department you use.

3. Submit the completed and notarized Bail Enforcement Agent application to the Mississippi State Insurance Department.

4. Pay the $40 privilege tax payment/license fee.

Tips & Warnings

• Mississippi bounty hunters do not have to take a licensing test to receive their bail enforcement agent licenses.

• Your Mississippi Bail Enforcement License will expire every other Sept. 30. Your first license will last anywhere from 13 to 24 months, depending on the date you receive it.

• If you move from one bail bonding agency to another, you must reapply and pay a new privilege tax.

References

• Mississippi Insurance Department: Bail Enforcement Agent & Bail Soliciting Agent Licensing Instructions
• Additional Continuing Education for Mississippi Bail Agents

Resources

• Pre-Licensing and Continuing Education Guidelines
• License Application for Bail Agents
• Mississippi Insurance Department Contact and Location Information