The bail bond agent job potential is estimated to grow by 8%, producing 2,600 job opportunities. Most bail bondsmen now make $18.95 an hour on average.
A bail bondsman is a person that acts as a surety for someone in jail. They pledge money or property for the person so they can get out.
Becoming a bondsman is quite simple; you just need a bail agent license. That is why many people are interested in how to become a bail bondsman.
Keep reading to find out how to get your bail agent license.
Do Some Research
The first thing you need to do is start doing research. Bail bondsman licensing will come later on in the process.
First, you need to see if this is a job you would be good at. Look into the industry and see what kind of opportunities there are.
For instance, would you be able to do this job where you currently live? Would you be able to make a livable income with your financial needs right now?
These are questions that you need to ask yourself before proceeding. You will also be working closely with local law enforcement, defense attorneys, and judges.
Because of this, you need to make sure you are comfortable working with these people.
Look at the Requirements
Bail bondsman requirements are not excessive for the industry. A little research will show you what kind of requirements you will need to meet for this career.
It is important to make sure you meet the requirements so that you don’t waste time. The main requirement is that you must be at least 18 years old.
You also have to have a high school diploma or your GED. These are the main requirements before you begin the process of getting your bail agent license.
Take a Pre-Licensing Course
If you want to start a bail bondsman business, you need to take a course. A pre-licensing course will help you to pass your bail bond state exam.
This is a very important thing to do since the course will instruct you on what your job will be. You will understand the state’s bail bond laws and specific practices.
Everything that will be on your exam will be included in the course. Keep in mind that this is not always a requirement to become a bail bondsman.
But it is usually necessary so that you have the experience to start working. You may even want to consider other educational classes in this area.
The more education you have, the better you will be able to do your job. This will also give you the confidence boost you need when starting your career.
Take the Bail Bonding License Exam
The most important step of this process is passing the bail bonding license exam. This is what is going to determine if this is a career choice you can pursue.
This is an exam and very similar to other types of exams you may have taken. There are multiple-choice questions, and you will be given 50 to 60 minutes to complete the exam.
These should be questions that you already understand from the courses you have taken. Keep in mind that these exams are provided by different providers.
Because of this, each exam may be slightly different with different requirements. If courses are required, you will need to prove that you completed this education.
You will also need to have the money to pay for your fingerprinting fee for the exam.
Apply for a State License
When you have passed your exam, you can apply for a state license. This is something that will be necessary if you want an online bail bonds business.
Having a state license is required for you to legally work in that state. You will need to visit your state’s Department of Insurance online.
You will have to pay a licensing fee and provide the scores for your licensing exam. You will also need to have proof of sponsorship coming from a surety company.
It is important to keep in mind that bail bondsman licensing requirements change every few years. Because of this, you may need to take more education, later on, to get your license renewed.
Benefits of Becoming a Bail Bond Agent
There are many benefits to being a bail bondsman. This may not be a career choice everyone chooses, but it is a secure option.
Part of why this is such a good job is that you have job security. Bail bondsmen are always necessary, and you could even branch out on your own.
Companies like Amistad Bail Bonds and Associates contracts bail bond agents. This provides job security and flexibility in your career.
Another benefit is that you will have job options no matter where you go. Bail bond agents are needed everywhere, so you don’t have to move to find work.
There is also plenty of opportunity for paycheck growth as you gain experience.
Bail Agent License: Step-by-Step Process
If you want to become a bail bond agent, you need a bail agent license. There is a step-by-step process that will help you to achieve this in very little time.
As far as careers go, becoming a bail bondsman is a very simple process. It provides a stable career where there is plenty of room for growth.
Are you interested in becoming a bail bondsman? Contact us today at Amistad Bail Bond and Associates to apply to join our team.