Postsecondary Training Some college-level course work in criminal justice and psychology and training in law enforcement techniques are helpful. Many of todays bail bondsmen have college degrees in criminal justice, although that is not a requirement.
The bail bond agent will need you to sign some paperwork in order for you to secure their services. This usually means paying an amount to the agent, usually a percentage of the total bail amount, and signing off on any collateral for the bond.
Background Check and Disqualifications A clean background is crucial. You cannot have any felony convictions. If you have a felony on your record, you are automatically disqualified from becoming a bail bonds agent.
It pays well Although you may not become rich over night while working as a bail bondsman, the earning potential in this career is great. For instance, a bail bondsman working as a part-time agent by just writing three or four bonds a month can make enough income to replace a full-time paying job.
If the felonies on your record have been adjudicated by a court, in other words, not mere arrests where the cases have been dropped or dismissed by the prosecutors, then you will be prevented from qualifying for a license as a bail bond agent.
APPLYING FOR A BAIL BOND LICENSE Eligibility for a license is limited to persons who have not previously been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, any felony, or to a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or dishonesty.
Complete the Required Education in Pennsylvania. Take the Pennsylvania Bail Bondsman Examination. Apply for Pennsylvania State Licensure as a Bail Bondsman. Complete a County Affiliation Form. Get to Work in Pennsylvania and Maintain your Bail Bondsman License.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Bail Bondsman Age and Education: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Clean Criminal Record: You cannot have any felonies or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude.