How to Become a Bail Bondsman

The role of bail bondsman is important in the modern justice system. For those who have just been arrested, turning to a bail bondsman is sometimes the only available option for posting bail and returning to their families and careers. For the courts, a bail bondsman provides assurance that those released on bail will show up to their court date.

Bail Bond Policy in Your State

The first step for those who are thinking about taking on the rewarding challenge of becoming a bail bondsman is to check if their state of residence allows for private bail. This essentially refers to whether a state’s courts will allow bail to be posted from a bail bondsman. The following states and districts do not permit private bail at this time:

• Illinois
• Wisconsin
• Kentucky
• Oregon
• Washington, D.C.
• Massachusetts
• Nebraska
• Maine

General Requirements

If you’ve determined your state allows private bail, the next step is to begin identifying what requirements you must meet to be considered eligible. In addition to possessing knowledge of finances, the court system, contractual law and criminal law, there are a small handful of requirements a candidate must meet, such as:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass a background check
• Be appointed by an approved surety

Next Steps

The next step is to apply for your bail bondsman state license. The process generally involves submitting an application through the state department of insurance for approval. The application requires a licensing fee and background check.

Bail Bondsman You Can Trust

If your application is approved by your state’s department of insurance, you’re free to work as a bail agent independently or as part of a network of bail agents, such as the ones at Goldberg Bail Bonds. For those considering becoming bail agents, it’s best to check with your state’s department of insurance for exact requirements.

Although bail agents’ duties can be challenging, it’s a much-needed service that truly helps many people. For more information about the services provided at Goldberg Bail Bonds, contact us online or call (612) 333-8811. Bail agents are available 24/7 to help those in need!