In the last years, the New Jersey Judicial system has been resolving over 50,000 criminal cases yearly and surveys indicate that yearly bond turnover of approximately $14 billion, this sector provides those already in the field and those looking to join a rare opportunity to leverage the growing number of cases requiring bail bondsmen. Today, it is estimated that the current number of bail bondsmen in the U.S is about 15,000 and while this figure may look huge, the ever-rising number of cases continues to put pressure on the available bail bondsmen. Therefore, those looking to enter the field have ample room to keep enjoying high returns from investment. A bail agent New Jersey provides the much-needed funds to help people secure their bonds for purposes of being released prior to a hearing and determination of the case.

The process involved before you can become a bail bondsman is state-specific, but a majority of the states have adopted a process that encompasses the following steps:
• Determining Your Eligibility
• Completing Training
• Taking and passing a State Licensing Exam

Below is a brief explanation of each of the above steps:

Determining Your Eligibility

The profession of a bail bondsman is such a complex and demanding one, requiring that the professional is highly competent on matters of finance, insurance, law, and state legislative policies on bail bonds. Therefore, you are required to meet certain requirements before you are handed a license to practice. You need to:

• Be above the age of 18 years
• Hold a GED or a high school diploma
• Complete a pre-licensing course
• Take and pass the state licensing exam
• Have access to sufficient finances in order for you to meet the burdensome surety obligations
• Obtain sponsorship from a reputable surety company

Complete Educational and Training Requirements

Although the state requires only a high school diploma, many bail bondsmen prefer going in for higher qualifications in order to prepare for the challenges that come with this lucrative yet demanding career.

Pass the State Licensing Exam

Typically, this is a timed exam that can take between 50 minutes to 1 hour and is usually a multiple-choice exam. A potential bail bondsman will be expected to pay a fee of between $40 and $100 before being allowed to take a test. You are allowed to take the exam multiple times as and when they are offered if you fail.

Apply for a State License

You will be required to submit an application available on New Jersey State website, pay the license fee using a credit card, a check, or a money order, submitting the licensing agency with your test scores, and providing details of the surety company sponsoring you.

After all the necessary checks have been performed, a potential bail agent in New Jersey will be issued with a license that will pave the way for you to either join a bail bond company or choose to start your own company. However, it is advisable to work under a reputed company to gain the requisite skills and expertise before opening up your own company. This helps to give you the kind of resilience and experience needed to manage a company in a highly complex and often risky setting.