With a population of over 4.8 million people, Alabama presents great business opportunities for bail bonds businesses. Besides, the crime rate is also high and that means many accused persons are continually in need of bail bond services to help secure their release from jail. So, how do you start a successful bail bonds business in Birmingham, Alabama? Below is a step-by-step guide to help you get your bail bonds in Birmingham Al business up and running in no time.
Step 1: Undertake the required prelicensing course
Bail bondsmen are required to take a 20-hour prelicensing course to understand the principles of bail bond insurance, five hours of which must cover Alabama law. The Alabama Department of Insurance approves the providers allowed to offer the prelicensing course. You can find these providers online.
Step 2: Pass the Bail Bond Examination
After successfully completing your prelicensing course, you’ll be awarded a certificate allowing you to sit for Alabama’s bail bond insurance exam. You must sit for exams within a year of the date indicated on the certificate. It is administered through various campus locations throughout Alabama. As an examinee, you are required to register for this test at least 7 days prior to the desired testing date. You’ll have to answer 50 exam questions in 60 minutes and pass before applying for a license.
Step 3: Undergo a Fingerprint check
They have to carry out a thorough background check before they can issue you with a license. Professional bondsmen must be free of any convictions relating to felony and moral turpitude. Complete a fingerprint check to determine whether you are clean to get a license. This service is offered through a third-party provider contracted through the state.
Step 4: Apply for your license
Now that you’ve successfully completed your prelicensing course, sat for and passed the relevant examination, and undergone a fingerprint check, it is time to apply for your license. As a prospective bondsman, you are required to submit your application via the National Insurance Producer Registry. Submit your application as soon as you’ve been fingerprinted, as your background check results will remain in the system for only 30 days.
Step 5: Start practicing by working under another person or company
Once you get licensed, it is time to go out there and start practicing as soon as possible. You can get valuable experience by working under another bondman. This will enable you to become an experienced bondsman and forge meaningful and professional business relationships. While you can start your own business as soon as you acquire your license, it is better for you to gain experience and build relationships while working for someone else than make many mistakes that would cost you money. The experience you gain from your employer will enable you to understand the business process and become a better manager of your business.
Step 6: Register and launch your bail bonds business
Now that you’re confident in your ability to run a business and have years of experience in the industry. It is time to register and launch your business.
As with any other business, starting a bail bonds business in Birmingham, AL requires you to prepare adequately by getting the right license and registering your business. Remember that you’re going to face challenges along the way but you’ll need patience and perseverance to pull through.
