What Is a Bail Bondsman? What Do They Do?

Q: What Is a Bail Bondsman? What Do They Do?

A bail bondsman (also called a bail agent or bail bond agent) is a licensed professional who posts bail on behalf of defendants. They charge a non-refundable 10% fee and guarantee the full bail amount to the court. In Florida, bail bondsmen must be licensed by the Department of Financial Services.

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Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026

Quick Answer: A bail bondsman (also called a bail agent or bail bond agent) is a licensed professional who posts bail on behalf of defendants. They charge a non-refundable 10% fee and guarantee the full bail amount to the court. In Florida, bail bondsmen must be licensed by the Department of Financial Services.

What a Bail Bondsman Does

Assesses the risk; Reviews the charges, bail amount, defendant's history, and flight risk
Collects the premium; Charges 10% of the bail amount (set by Florida law)
Posts the bond; Submits paperwork and financial guarantee to the court/jail
Monitors the defendant; Ensures the defendant attends all court dates
Recovers defendants; If a defendant skips court, the bondsman may use recovery agents (bounty hunters) to locate them

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Florida bail bondsmen must:

Be at least 18 years old
Complete a 200-hour training course
Pass a state licensing exam
Obtain a license from the Florida Department of Financial Services
Be appointed by a licensed surety insurance company
Maintain continuing education credits

Verify any bondsman's license at myfloridacfo.com.

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