Online Bail Bonding Courses and Training Programs

Students seeking to become bail bondsmen, sometimes known as surety agents, are often required to take educational or pre-licensing courses to prepare for the state-specific licensing exam. Online programs in this area are rare, but they do exist in some states.

How to Choose Online Courses and Training Programs for Bail Bonding

Licensing

Licensing of bail bondsmen is generally done by a state's insurance department. These requirements are state-specific, and can differ from state to state. Many states require bondsmen to attend approved pre-licensing education courses before they can obtain a license. States may also require bondsmen to attend periodic continuing education courses to keep their license current.
Courses are designed according to state specifications, which can vary greatly. Some states require bondsmen to attend a 20 hour pre-licensing course, while others require a 120-hour program. Some states offer different types or levels of licenses, which can affect educational requirements also. Most bail bonding courses are not offered by educational institutions, but by state-approved professional associations or private companies.

Program Type

Instruction is often available completely over the Internet, although some pre-certification programs require students to take their final exam in person. Students typically utilize an online learning management system and usually communicate with professors via e-mail.
Additional study materials, such as training books or state regulation manuals may need to be purchased separately. A personal computer with a high-speed Internet connection and word processing software is often necessary for these programs.

List of Online Bail Bonding Training Programs

Online Pre-licensing Courses

Pre-licensing courses for bail bondsmen and surety agents can cover a wide array of topics, from the terminology used in the business to the role that the courts play in setting bonds. A review of basic English, math and reading skills may be included in some courses.
Bail bonding courses generally emphasize the skills and concepts covered in the state's written licensing examination. An in-depth review of the state's laws, regulations and rules governing bail are typically the main focus of these courses. They may also touch on laws regarding arrest warrants, courtroom demeanor and court organizational systems.
Classes may also teach skills needed in managing a bail bond agency, such as money management, self-defense methods and issues regarding collateral. Depending on the state, students may also have to take certification courses after completing pre-licensing training.