What Kind of Education Do You Need to Be a Bounty Hunter?

Education

Most bounty hunter jobs do not require a formal college education, all though many jobs may require a high school education or GED equivalent. However, getting an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field could help you land a job as a bounty hunter. For example, a degree in criminal justice will teach you about the legal system. If you plan to go into business for yourself, a business degree will teach you the necessary tools you need to successfully run your business, such as business management, basic accounting and basic marketing.

As a bounty hunter, you must know self-defense techniques and have the skills required to carry a firearm. You can take self-defense and basic martial arts or fighting courses at local gyms or through private facilities. These courses will give you the skills you need to apprehend suspects or to defend yourself. Some bounty hunter jobs may require you to carry a firearm, depending on the laws in your state. You can take firearm courses through local shooting ranges. Some local police stations offer also courses in firearm safety.

Many states require bounty hunters to carry a Bail Enforcement Agent license. To obtain this license, you will need to complete an application and pass an examination conducted by the state licensing department. You can request an application through the licensing board in your state. Most states also require you to carry a weapons license, if you plan to carry a weapon on the job. Obtaining this license may also require you to pass an exam. You can find the state specific firearms requirements in your state by visiting a local police office or contacting the licensing board.

Some vocational schools offer certification for bounty hunters. These schools offer a training course that covers the essential information you will need to know on the job, such as negotiation tactics, how to apprehend suspects and safety. By passing the examinations, you will receive a certificate from the school. While not required, having a certificate can help you stand out from the competition and may make it easier to get a job as a bounty hunter.