Bounty hunters, also known as fugitive recovery or bond enforcement agents, track down people who didn't show up in court in exchange for a percentage of the individual's bail.This can be lucrative, but it's also dangerous.If you want to become a bounty hunter, you need to meet a number of requirements.
Step 1: You should consult your state laws.
Many states require special licenses and testing to work in bounty hunting.You can inquire about the proper licensure for your state by calling the police station, courthouse, or bondsman.Most states require bond enforcement agents to be at least 18 years old.The legal age requirement in some states is raised due to weapons permits.The National Association of Fugitive Recovery Agents has more information on licensure.Since bounty hunters sometimes have to work across state lines, check the licensing requirements in neighboring states to make sure you meet them as well.It is illegal to hunt for bounty in some states.You won't be able to follow fugitives internationally because most other countries consider bounty hunting illegal.
Step 2: You should pass a background check.
To become a bounty hunter, you need to pass a background check.Depending on your employer and the state laws, there may be specific requirements for the background check.You can get more information on background checks from your local law enforcement office.Past criminal record, education, work history, and even social media use are some of the information that background checks look for.Depending on the type of background check that they run, employers might be able to see information about your financial and medical history.
Step 3: You need a permit to carry firearms in your state.
Many states require a license to carry a concealed weapon, which proves that you have the training and knowledge to use a gun.If you want to register your gun and license with local law enforcement, you have to fill out an application.Most licenses only cover one state and won't allow for transportation of a handgun across state lines.If you are going to work in different states, make sure you have the proper license and keep it on you at all times.Depending on the laws in your state, you will have to have your concealed weapon license renewed every 3-6 years.Don't allow your license to expire if you're aware of the requirements.You can get directions on how to get a gun license in Minnesota, Massachusetts, or Georgia.
Step 4: If your state requires it, get certified as a bounty hunter.
Bounty hunter certification is required in many states.Sometimes, this means attending training classes in law enforcement, and other times it just means passing an exam.If there is one, your state laws will clarify the process.If you have questions about the certification process, you can ask your local law enforcement for more information.There is no certification process in Hawaii, Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Kansas, Minnesota, Michigan, Alabama, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Vermont, Maine, Delaware, or Rhode Island.The law regarding bounty hunting is subject to change every few years.
Step 5: Network with bond enforcement agents.
If you want to get your foot in the door, you need to find a mentor in your field.Once you have secured all of your certifications, ask the bounty hunters in your area if you can ride along with them on a few jobs.If your state doesn't require certification or licensure, this is even more true.An experienced agent will tell you what you need to know and be honest with you.If you have never met professionals before, be polite and patient.Let them know who you are, what you want to do, and how they can contact you by calling or sending an email.I am a recent graduate of the criminal justice field and I would like to send an email to the local enforcement agent.I am interested in working as a bond enforcement agent and have begun the process for certification.Would you be willing to meet in the upcoming weeks to discuss your job and field in general?You can contact me.
Step 6: Criminal justice, psychology, or sociology are optional.
While a college degree isn't required for bond enforcement, classes in these fields will give you the abilities and skills necessary for the job.Law enforcement theory, investigation practices, and criminal behavior are some of the topics you will learn about.It is a good idea to take martial arts classes to learn hand-to-hand combat and defense techniques.You are more likely to get work if you have hands-on experience through your degree.It's important to keep track of your education and experience on your resume.
Step 7: Purchase safety gear.
You should have handcuffs, taser, pepper spray, and protective gear.You can buy these from catalogues or online retailers.When making arrests, some states require you to wear clothing that identifies you as a bounty hunter.This is to keep you safe.In case of emergency situations, you will want to purchase a firearm.If you want to register a firearm in your state, be sure to check the laws.
Step 8: Purchase a car with good gas mileage.
You will need to drive long distances to find fugitives when you start out.Choose a car that is small, roomy, and reliable.For larger SUVs, vans, and trucks, look at Toyota, Chevrolet, or Kia.Make sure the car is insured in your state.When you work as a law enforcement officer, you don't want to be pulled over.
Step 9: You can make connections with bail bondsmen who can act as agents for you.
Notices for court dates and upcoming bails are sent to bail bondsmen, who will likely know the names of local fugitives.Introduce yourself and be friendly to them.Let them know that you want to be notified of available work.Bounty hunters must only work with bondsmen who act as their employers in some states.The bondsman is responsible for keeping track of the enforcement agents that they use.Offer to do your first gig for free to gain experience, show that you're capable and true to your word, and prove you can get the job done.
Step 10: Keep track of your clients.
You can offer your services to bail bond agencies.Like any self-employed professional, you are in charge of marketing, keeping track of your earnings, and creating a professional network as a bounty hunter.If you get an assignment, you should get a certified copy of the bond so that you can arrest the fugitive if you find them.Work for a bounty hunter is sporadic, so be prepared to be notified of new cases at a moment's notice, and act as if you're always on call!
Step 11: You can research the individual using your investigative skills.
When you get a case, the first thing you need to do is find out about the fugitive.Search through databases of addresses, access and analyze phone records, look at registered license plate and Social Security numbers to figure out where the fugitive might be.You can use social media to find friends and family, and learn about the fugitive's past.Some fugitives have their location made public on their social media posts.Keep an eye out for people who have been betrayed by the fugitive and may be willing to give up information on them.
Step 12: Stay calm while speaking to the fugitive.
It might be easier to negotiate with some skips.Before getting physical, try to use logic and reason.Make them feel like they are making the right decision by coming with you and avoiding physical confrontation.You can use force to get the skip to cooperate.
Step 13: The time is right to arrest the fugitive.
Many bounty hunters show up in the middle of the night to trick a fugitive into coming in contact with them.Put handcuffs on the suspect and take him or her to a jail in the county where he or she was originally arrested.Some states allow the enforcement agent to enter a home if there is consent from the people inside, while others don't.Before entering a dwelling, check with your state laws.Before making an arrest, be sure to follow proper channels for notifying law enforcement.Most states require some form of advance notice when an enforcement agent plans to make an arrest.
Step 14: Pick up your services quickly and professionally.
Contact the bondsman after the fugitive has been captured to begin the payment process.If you want to prove that the job has been completed, you have to have records of the arrest.Track your travel expenses for tax purposes.You should keep your receipts for gas, hotel stays, and food expenses since you will be self-employed.During tax season, these can be used as write-offs.