The role of a bail bondsman is a specialized profession within the Arkansas justice system, requiring individuals to provide financial assurances to courts for defendants awaiting trial. This career path is governed by the Arkansas Professional Bail Bondsman Licensing Board (APBBLB), which establishes the standards for practice. Aspiring professionals must complete several steps to operate legally.
Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before an individual can begin the formal licensing process, they must meet several prerequisites. The state of Arkansas mandates that any prospective bail bondsman be at least 21 years of age and hold United States citizenship or be a legal resident alien.
A component of eligibility revolves around a candidate’s personal history and character. Arkansas law prohibits anyone with a felony conviction from becoming a bail bondsman. Convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude are also disqualifying, as the role demands a high degree of trustworthiness and financial responsibility.
Complete the Pre-Licensing Education
After confirming basic eligibility, the next step is mandatory education. Arkansas requires all prospective bail bondsmen to complete an eight-hour pre-licensing course from a state-approved provider. This course provides a foundation in the laws and procedures that govern the bail industry.
The curriculum focuses on Arkansas state laws, APBBLB regulations, and professional ethics. Students learn about the legal framework of bail, procedures for posting bonds, and the responsibilities a bondsman has to the court and defendant. Completing this course is a prerequisite for taking the state exam.
Pass the Arkansas Bail Bondsman Examination
Upon completion of the pre-licensing education, candidates must pass the Arkansas Bail Bondsman Licensure Exam. A passing score of 70 percent or higher is required, and this score is only valid for one year. An applicant must secure their license within that timeframe or retake the exam.
The examination can be taken in person at the APBBLB office in Little Rock or electronically on specific days. A non-refundable $25 testing fee must be submitted with the exam application, payable by money order or a check from the sponsoring bail bond company.
Submit Your License Application
With a passing exam score, the next phase is to submit an application package to the Arkansas Professional Bail Bondsman Licensing Board. The package must include the formal license application (form B-10) and a company statement from a licensed bail bond company, as sponsorship is a requirement. A personal reference form signed by three individuals is also necessary.
A part of the application process is undergoing a thorough background check. Applicants must submit their fingerprints for both a state and federal criminal history check at the Arkansas State Police Headquarters. The application must be accompanied by the Arkansas State Police record check authorization and an FBI release form.
Candidates must also satisfy all financial requirements. The application packet must include a $125 fee, which covers the $100 application fee and the $25 exam fee, payable by a company check or money order. Applicants must also provide a Qualifying Power of Attorney form from their sponsoring insurance company to demonstrate the financial backing necessary to underwrite bail bonds.
Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain a license in good standing, Arkansas requires practicing bail bondsmen to complete ongoing training. This continuing education is a mandatory component for license renewal and ensures that professionals remain current on state laws and industry regulations.
Licensed bondsmen must complete eight hours of continuing education, available through state-licensed schools. There are exemptions for this requirement, as individuals who are 65 or older or who have been licensed for 15 or more years are not obligated to complete these courses.