How to get your license: Bail bond recovery agent

Our Customer Service Counter has moved. The counter is located at 405 Black Lake Blvd, Olympia, WA 98502. Map and driving directions (google.com)

Who needs a license?

Anyone who is paid to apprehend criminal defendants for whom bail bonds have been posted.

All bail bond recovery agents must:

Be at least 21 years old.
Be a United States citizen or resident alien.
Have no criminal convictions that directly relate to their ability to perform the duties of a bail bond recovery agent or that hinders public safety.
Have a high school diploma, GED, or proof of 3 years' experience in the bail industry.
Complete the bail bond recovery agent training requirements.
Pass an exam covering the training topics. We'll schedule your exam at the location you choose within 3 weeks of receiving your paid application.

Submit all of the following:
- Bail Bond Recovery Agent License Application
- Proof you've completed the pre-license training.
- A copy of your current concealed pistol license
- Fee — Check or money order payable to Department of Licensing.
Mail to:
State of Washington
Department of Licensing
Business and Professions Division
PO Box 35001
Seattle, WA 98124-3401
Get fingerprinted for state and national background checks.
- Inside Washington: Go to www.identogo.com to schedule an appointment through MorphoTrust, our electronic fingerprinting vendor. You will pay IdentoGO for taking your fingerprints and for the background checks required for your license type.
- Outside Washington: Call the Bail Bond program at 360.664.6611 for fingerprint card submission instructions.
- For more details, see Fingerprinting and background checks.

U.S. Veterans may be eligible for partial reimbursements of costs. For more information: Education and Training | Licensing and Certification