SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 – The history of bounty hunters in the US dates back to colonial times, when daredevil private citizens commonly used to apprehend fugitives and collect rewards for doing so. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that bounty hunting started to gain legitimacy, becoming formalized by law enforcement agencies and courts, and elevated to the status of a full-fledged profession.
While they do retain some of that “daredevil poise”, modern bounty hunters (or, professionally: bail enforcement agents) are different beasts altogether. Trainees introduced to legal principles related to bail bonds, fugitive recovery tactics, and conflict resolution become well-educated in matters of law and defensive tactics, become problem solvers, critical thinkers, capable investigators and good communicators.
Above all, they are determined, disciplined, and excel under pressure, which are essential qualities for everyone interested in working in high-risk environments. If you believe that you fit this profile, then this guide is for you!
What do you need to be a bounty hunter?
Before we get to the specifics, it is important to note that each US state has its own set of rules and regulations regarding bounty hunting. For this reason, we’ve decided to compile a comprehensive list, outlining general requirements. However, you should do your own research and familiarize yourself with the rules of your state, so you can know which of these steps you should focus on. With that said, let’s get started.
Background checks
In virtually every state, background checks are obligatory for anyone who wants to become a bounty hunter. Also, in most states, having a criminal record automatically disqualifies individuals from operating in this capacity.
Licensing
In many states, a specific license is required for a person to legally operate as a bail enforcement agent. Typically, these licenses are issued by state regulatory agencies, such as the Department of Public Safety, and often require that you meet certain criteria in terms of training, experience, and/or insurance.
Training & Certification
Due to the high-risk nature of the job, it’s highly recommended that aspiring bounty hunters complete training programs, imbuing them with the knowledge necessary to thrive in the line of duty.
These courses usually include legal procedures, self-defense training, and techniques for the safe apprehension of fugitives, as well as communication skills essential for de-escalating critical situations. Also, note that these courses are mandatory in some states.
Firearms training & license to carry
Bounty hunting often requires dealing with dangerous fugitives, many of whom are ready to do whatever it takes to evade capture. Therefore, even though it’s not mandatory, obtaining training and a license to carry firearms is highly desirable in this line of work.
Networking
As soon as possible, you should start building relationships with bail bond agents, seeing as they’re the ones who’ll be setting you up with contracts throughout your career, as well as helping you in your endeavors. What’s more, they can also offer you stipends to help you with further education or training, which is certainly a great bonus.
Education
While formal education is not a strict requirement in most states, deepening your knowledge can help you further advance your career. Fortunately, you’re nothing if not spoiled for choice here, and there are many different paths you can take. Criminal justice or law are always popular choices, but there are those who choose to take a more “entrepreneurial” path and study marketing or business management to develop their bail enforcement agencies.
Insurance
Some US states, such as California, Connecticut, Oregon, and Florida, mandate that bail enforcement agents carry liability insurance or surety bonds. Damages and legal issues are relatively common in this line of work, and insurance is there to protect both the bounty hunter and their clients.
Can you make a living as a bounty hunter?
Bail enforcement agents make an average of $50,000 per year but, with age and experience, this number can climb to $100,000+. In addition, bounty hunting is steadily growing throughout the US, making this line of work certain to persist for the foreseeable future. Therefore, the answer to this question is unequivocal “Yes”.