Are you curious about what it is like to take the bail bondsman career path? Do you want to learn more about what they do and how they are an asset to the community?
Working as a bail bondsman in Virginia is a lucrative job that not only brings in a hefty salary but also benefits the people in your community. The job is always interesting as you have to go to local courthouses and jails or even go after fugitives on your own.
If you are interested in becoming a bail bondsman but aren’t sure of the steps you need to take to become one, please continue reading below. We will cover all you need to know about becoming a bail bondsman in Virginia and who you can contact for help in seeking employment after obtaining your license!
What Is a Bail Bondsman?
A bail bondsman is someone who handles the transactions of bail bonds. When someone needs to post bail for their loved one, they turn to bail bond agents and their services to get the money they need to get their loved ones out of jail. In order to start your bail bondsman career in Virginia, you have to be licensed.
What Are the Bail Bondsman Requirements?
Before you can become a bail bondsman in Virginia, there are a few requirements you must meet. For example, you must at least be 18 and a United States citizen. If you are a legal resident alien, you can apply to be a bail bondsman.
Additional requirements:
- GED or a high school diploma
- No felony convictions
- No crime involving moral turpitude in the last 10 years
So long as you meet the requirements, you can apply to become a bail bondsman.
Applying for the State License
In Virginia, you must complete the training needed for the license. This includes an entry-level core training that teaches you the ethical standards of being a bail bonds agent. This course takes about 40 hours to complete.
Firearms Training
In addition to taking the entry-level core training, you have to take firearms training as well. This is important for bail bond agents who want to apply for their firearms endorsement.
Take Your Licensing Exam
After you complete your required training, you have to sit for your bail bondsman licensing exam. It is imperative that you study for this exam because if you don’t pass it the first time, you will have to pay to take the exam again. Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your license.
Pay the Licensing Fee
When you submit your application to the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Service, also known as the DCJS, you must pay a $900 licensing fee. In addition to these fees, you must submit your fingerprints and pay a criminal history processing fee. If you plan on adding the firearms endorsement, the fee is $30 for the endorsement.
Obtain Your License
Once you’ve submitted all the applicable documents needed for your license, you have to wait for the Virginia DCJS to approve your application. Once they approve you, you have the opportunity to start working as a surety bondsman.
Keep in mind that you are licensed only for 24 months, and you have to renew your license well before that 24-month period if you want to continue working as a licensed bail bondsman. If you fail to renew your license and continue working as a bail bondsman, you could face legal issues.
Is It a Good Idea To Start a Bail Bondsman Career?
Yes, working as a bail bondsman is an excellent career path to consider. In general, most bondsmen make between $55,000 to $80,000 per year, and there is always plenty of work.
The bondsman takes their commission on every bond posted, and this depends on the company you work for. You can set how much commission you can take if you work for yourself.
Make a Difference in Your Community
Working as a bail bondsman in your community can be very rewarding. You have the ability to work with clients who are going through a hard time. These people are looking to you for support and to help them walk through this difficult time.
Long Term Career
If you decide to make this a long-term career, you will almost always be in business. Several companies are looking to hire bail bond agents to help you get your career. If you want to, you can go into business for yourself.
Once you learn the ropes of the business, you can create your own bonds business. When you own your business, you have the opportunity to build something from the ground up, and you can set your own schedule.
When you own your own business, you have to be backed by an insurance company that will authorize your bonds. Having experience as a bail bondsman before this moment will help you secure the insurance and business license you need to succeed in the bail bonds industry.
Start Your Bail Bondsman Career
A bail bondsman career has the potential to not only be lucrative but rewarding as well. You have the opportunity to work closely with your community as you build your experience needed to branch off and start your own business.
Starting your career in bail bonds is easy, so long as you are dedicated and focused. If you are ready to start your career in the bail bonds industry, contact us. We are ready to help you get your career off the ground and show you how to be the best bail bondsman in your community.