You've probably seen bounty hunters in action in your favorite TV shows and movies. But did you know that bounty-hunting is a real profession that is still used in modern times?
If you are interested in becoming a bounty hunter, keep reading. We'll talk about whether or not you will need a bounty hunter's license and the steps you can take to pursue this intense and thrilling career.
What Can You Do With a Bounty Hunter's License?
The regulations for becoming a bounty hunter can vary from state to state. In many states, you'll need to become licensed before you can begin working as a bounty hunter.
Bounty hunters typically work directly for bail bond agents or companies, often as independent contractors. They are responsible for locating and apprehending fugitives who have missed a court date.
Often, bounty hunters are free to use a variety of methods for tracking down their quarry. They are not governed by the same strict regulations as law enforcement officers or investigators.
What a bounty hunter is and is not allowed to do is ultimately determined by state and local regulations, not by the presence of a license.
Are you looking to become a bounty hunter? To learn how to earn your bounty hunter license, if needed, and begin working in this intense field, follow the steps below.
1. Earn an Education
Most states don't have educational requirements for their bounty hunters; however, you'll have a better chance of getting hired and building your career if you have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Bounty hunters benefit greatly from knowing the law and various law enforcement practices. Therefore, pursuing a degree in criminal justice or a related field can be helpful.
While in school, you may also want to take classes in business administration, {marketing|https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/degrees/free-marketing-classes-online.html], and finance. These will help you develop business skills and thrive as an independent contractor.
2. Find Out About Local Requirements
Before beginning your career, you'll need to know what will be expected of you as a bounty hunter. Develop a strong general understanding of the laws and regulations in your city, county, and state.
Since your work as a bounty hunter may take you across state lines, you'll also want to be familiar with the laws in surrounding states as well.
These laws will govern your daily activities and tactics as a bounty hunter. It is important to know the laws so that you don't unknowingly break any of them while carrying out your duties.
You'll also need to be familiar with the prerequisites of becoming a bounty hunter.
Find out whether a license is necessary in your state, the minimum age you have to be, and whether background checks or fingerprinting will be required.
3. Complete Specialized Training
Some states or localities may offer specialized training courses on how to become a bounty hunter. You may be required to complete these courses to obtain a state license.
These training programs will teach you various techniques and tactics when dealing with fugitives. You'll learn how to conduct investigations, locate fugitives, and de-escalate threatening situations.
Even if training and licensing aren't required in your state, you will benefit by taking part in defensive training to help sharpen your skills and protect yourself on the job.
Most bounty hunters receive extensive training in martial arts and the use of firearms. Bounty hunting is a dangerous profession, so knowing how to stay safe is crucial.
4. Get a State License
As noted above, you may or may not need to obtain a license to work as a bounty hunter. Some states require a license, while others do not.
If your state requires you to obtain a bounty hunter license, you may need to complete a specific training program or take an examination.
You may also need to pay an application fee and submit to various other requirements.
It's also a good idea to find out how often you will have to renew your license, what the renewal fee is, and whether continuing education is a requirement to maintain your license.
5. Build a Network
Once you have met all the state and local requirements to become a bounty hunter, you can start looking for jobs. As noted above, most bounty hunters work as independent contractors.
This means that to find consistent work, you'll need to network with bail bond agents and companies in your area.
Create a website advertising your training and services, and reach out to potential clients. Endeavor to build positive relationships and always follow through on your agreements to develop a good reputation.
Get Your Bounty Hunter's License Today
Bounty hunters work for bail bond agents to locate and recover fugitives. If this sounds like thrilling work to you, find out if your state requires you to get a bounty hunter license.
Then, follow the steps in this article to obtain your license and pursue bounty hunting as a career.
