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Virginia Bail Bond — Requirements & Free Practice

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Agent Bail Bondsman

Agent Bail Bondsman regulated by Virginia DCJS.

Licensing authority: department of criminal justice services · Application information

Addition of category to an existing bail bondsman license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the category application and nonrefundable category fee; meet category-specific requirements of 6VAC20-250-40 B-D.
Existing license
Already hold a current Virginia bail bondsman license.
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement following suspension for dishonored fee payment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Repayment
Request reinstatement and pay the dishonored amount plus required fees or penalties.
Suspension
License suspended after written notice of dishonored required fee payment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Application after failure to meet renewal or in service deadlines
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Expired license
Renewal requirements not completed before license expiration, or in-service training not completed by expiration; initial licensure and entry-level training requirements apply.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.
Restoration following satisfaction of forfeited recognizance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Forfeiture
License suspended for unpaid forfeited recognizance under 9.1-185.8 K.
Satisfaction
Satisfy the forfeited recognizance; suspension ends only if there is no other cause for suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure using pre July 2005 SCC examination evidence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board exam instruction
The controlling statutory alternative settles the current exam exemption. The lower-ranked rule nevertheless states: 1. Pass the bail bondsman exam as prescribed by the board at a certified or licensed private security services training school with a minimum passing grade of 70%. Any applicant who improperly uses notes or other reference materials, or otherwise cheats on the exam, shall be ineligible to become a licensed bail bondsman.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Prior exam
Must have passed the former SCC surety bail bondsman examination before July 1, 2005. It is historical applicant evidence: Article 6.2 was repealed effective July 1, 2005; it is not a current examination leaf.
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.
Application more than 120 days after termination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Lapsed license
More than 120 days after termination: initial license application requirements apply.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.
Nonresident transfer or application
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.
Transfer
Apply as a nonresident transfer; an existing foreign-jurisdiction license does not waive Virginia requirements under 9.1-185.7.
Reinstatement within 120 days after category related termination
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Restored qualification
Restore the collateral requirements (property/agent) or obtain a new SCC property and casualty agent license (surety) before applying.
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.
Time limit
Apply no more than 120 days after termination with the reinstatement application and nonrefundable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Timely license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with approved in service training extension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Extension
Before expiry, submit a signed dated request, projected compliance date and physician records or military/foreign-service orders for extended illness, injury or military/foreign service. DCJS may grant up to 12 months and additional written extensions; expired licenses cannot receive an extension.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Sponsor
Provide the sponsoring licensed property bondsman's special power of attorney appointing the agent; the sponsor must support $200,000 collateral for each agent.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Property Bail Bondsman

Property Bail Bondsman regulated by Virginia DCJS.

Licensing authority: Department of Criminal Justice Services · Application information

Addition of category to an existing bail bondsman license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the category application and nonrefundable category fee; meet category-specific requirements of 6VAC20-250-40 B-D.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Existing license
Already hold a current Virginia bail bondsman license.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement following suspension for dishonored fee payment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Repayment
Request reinstatement and pay the dishonored amount plus required fees or penalties.
Suspension
License suspended after written notice of dishonored required fee payment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Application after failure to meet renewal or in service deadlines
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Expired license
Renewal requirements not completed before license expiration, or in-service training not completed by expiration; initial licensure and entry-level training requirements apply.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.
Restoration following satisfaction of forfeited recognizance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Forfeiture
License suspended for unpaid forfeited recognizance under 9.1-185.8 K.
Satisfaction
Satisfy the forfeited recognizance; suspension ends only if there is no other cause for suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure using pre July 2005 SCC examination evidence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Board exam instruction
The controlling statutory alternative settles the current exam exemption. The lower-ranked rule nevertheless states: 1. Pass the bail bondsman exam as prescribed by the board at a certified or licensed private security services training school with a minimum passing grade of 70%. Any applicant who improperly uses notes or other reference materials, or otherwise cheats on the exam, shall be ineligible to become a licensed bail bondsman.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Prior exam
Must have passed the former SCC surety bail bondsman examination before July 1, 2005. It is historical applicant evidence: Article 6.2 was repealed effective July 1, 2005; it is not a current examination leaf.
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.
Application more than 120 days after termination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Lapsed license
More than 120 days after termination: initial license application requirements apply.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.
Nonresident transfer or application
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.
Transfer
Apply as a nonresident transfer; an existing foreign-jurisdiction license does not waive Virginia requirements under 9.1-185.7.
Reinstatement within 120 days after category related termination
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.
Restored qualification
Restore the collateral requirements (property/agent) or obtain a new SCC property and casualty agent license (surety) before applying.
Time limit
Apply no more than 120 days after termination with the reinstatement application and nonrefundable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Timely license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with approved in service training extension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Board collateral instruction
DCJS implementing instructions state that pledged Virginia real estate must be free and clear of liens/obligations; provide the specified collateral verification, deed, title search, appraisal or assessment and ownership documents.
Cash collateral
Verify cash or certificates of deposit and the holding financial institution; submit required control agreements and financial statements.
Collateral
Show at least $200,000 eligible collateral for the bondsman and an additional $200,000 for each agent; nonstandard collateral requires DCJS approval.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Extension
Before expiry, submit a signed dated request, projected compliance date and physician records or military/foreign-service orders for extended illness, injury or military/foreign service. DCJS may grant up to 12 months and additional written extensions; expired licenses cannot receive an extension.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
Historic collateral exemption
A continuously certified property bondsman certified before July 1, 1989 who never supplied $200,000 collateral retains the statutory exemption; submit certified prior certificate and court collateral records and meet all other requirements.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Joint ownership
Provide individual powers of attorney or entity authorizations for collateral not solely owned by the bondsman.
Real estate
Virginia real estate requires certified current tax assessment or licensed appraisal prepared within one year, equity/encumbrance affidavit, and if ordered a deed of trust and title certificate; DCJS can request further verification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Surety Bail Bondsman

Surety Bail Bondsman regulated by Virginia DCJS.

Licensing authority: department of criminal justice services · Application information

Addition of category to an existing bail bondsman license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the category application and nonrefundable category fee; meet category-specific requirements of 6VAC20-250-40 B-D.
Existing license
Already hold a current Virginia bail bondsman license.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement following suspension for dishonored fee payment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Repayment
Request reinstatement and pay the dishonored amount plus required fees or penalties.
Suspension
License suspended after written notice of dishonored required fee payment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Application after failure to meet renewal or in service deadlines
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Expired license
Renewal requirements not completed before license expiration, or in-service training not completed by expiration; initial licensure and entry-level training requirements apply.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.
Restoration following satisfaction of forfeited recognizance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Forfeiture
License suspended for unpaid forfeited recognizance under 9.1-185.8 K.
Satisfaction
Satisfy the forfeited recognizance; suspension ends only if there is no other cause for suspension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure using pre July 2005 SCC examination evidence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board exam instruction
The controlling statutory alternative settles the current exam exemption. The lower-ranked rule nevertheless states: 1. Pass the bail bondsman exam as prescribed by the board at a certified or licensed private security services training school with a minimum passing grade of 70%. Any applicant who improperly uses notes or other reference materials, or otherwise cheats on the exam, shall be ineligible to become a licensed bail bondsman.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Prior exam
Must have passed the former SCC surety bail bondsman examination before July 1, 2005. It is historical applicant evidence: Article 6.2 was repealed effective July 1, 2005; it is not a current examination leaf.
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.
Application more than 120 days after termination
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Lapsed license
More than 120 days after termination: initial license application requirements apply.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.
Nonresident transfer or application
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.
Transfer
Apply as a nonresident transfer; an existing foreign-jurisdiction license does not waive Virginia requirements under 9.1-185.7.
Reinstatement within 120 days after category related termination
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Restored qualification
Restore the collateral requirements (property/agent) or obtain a new SCC property and casualty agent license (surety) before applying.
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.
Time limit
Apply no more than 120 days after termination with the reinstatement application and nonrefundable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Timely license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with approved in service training extension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application, fingerprints and criminal history, nonrefundable license/category fees and applicable collateral or insurance/power-of-attorney documentation.
Existing license
Hold the current category license; apply at least 30 days before expiration and complete all renewal requirements before expiration.
Extension
Before expiry, submit a signed dated request, projected compliance date and physician records or military/foreign-service orders for extended illness, injury or military/foreign service. DCJS may grant up to 12 months and additional written extensions; expired licenses cannot receive an extension.
Firearms
If armed, complete the separate annual firearms endorsement and retraining requirements.
Good standing
Maintain good standing in every licensing jurisdiction; an operational probationary period is excepted.
In service
Complete eight hours of in-service training during the last 12 months of the license; eligible third-party training may receive alternative credit under 6VAC20-250-150.
Insurance license
Hold and supply a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license; this is another profession's credential condition, not an insurance examination leaf.
Power of attorney
File each insurer's qualifying power of attorney, identifying the surety agent and issuing company's registered agent. No bond may be written for an insurer before its power is filed.
Termination
The surety bail license terminates immediately when the SCC property and casualty agent license terminates; it cannot be applied for again until that license is reissued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Surety Bail Bondsman Licensure Letter

Temporary licensure letter giving a surety bail bondsman applicant 30 days to submit a qualifying power of attorney; it does not authorize bonding.

Licensing authority: Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services · Application information

Temporary surety letter using historical SCC exam evidence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Board exam instruction
6VAC20-250-40 A 1 nevertheless states: 1. Pass the bail bondsman exam as prescribed by the board at a certified or licensed private security services training school with a minimum passing grade of 70%. Any applicant who improperly uses notes or other reference materials, or otherwise cheats on the exam, shall be ineligible to become a licensed bail bondsman.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Maintain a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license.
Missing power
Applicant cannot obtain a qualifying insurer power of attorney before issuance; DCJS may issue the temporary letter for no more than 30 days.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Prior exam
Passed the former SCC surety bail bondsman examination before July 1, 2005.
Restricted authority
The letter does not authorize bonding; file the powers within 30 days.
Statutory instruction
9.1-185.5 D 2 permits issuance with later filing within 30 days after receipt; the implementing rule/page imposes the temporary-letter 30-day period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary surety letter pending insurer power of attorney
Bail Bondsman Exam
Age
Must be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the prescribed application, nonrefundable processing and category fees, Virginia physical records address, and legal/fictitious company names and addresses.
Background
Submit fingerprints, criminal-history information, processing application and fees; a felony requires a pardon or restored civil rights.
Citizenship
Must be a United States citizen or legal resident alien.
Education
Must hold a high school diploma or a Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; the equivalency examination is an education condition, not a bail-bond examination.
Entry training
Complete 40-hour 40E entry-level training at a DCJS-certified or licensed school and apply within 12 months of completing training.
Excluded employment
Cannot be an employee of the listed jail, sheriff, police, Commonwealth attorney, corrections, DCJS or pretrial/community probation offices, or a conservator of the peace.
Firearms
If armed or having immediate access to a firearm on duty, obtain the separate firearms endorsement, satisfy firearms training and qualification for each action and caliber, and if carrying concealed obtain the permit and employer permission.
Household exclusion
Va. Code 9.1-185.4 B 8 applies the spouse/household exclusion to specified employees who are sworn officers or have direct inmate-record access. The broader administrative rule states: 8. Spouses of or any persons residing in the same household as persons referred to in subdivisions 2 through 7 of this subsection.
Insurance license
Maintain a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license.
Missing power
Applicant cannot obtain a qualifying insurer power of attorney before issuance; DCJS may issue the temporary letter for no more than 30 days.
Nonresident
Va. Code 9.1-185.7 requires nonresident applicants and transfers to satisfy the same licensing requirements as residents; no automatic reciprocal waiver is provided by that provision.
Practical exercises curriculum
6VAC20-250-130 E lists one practical exercise each for Law, Fugitive recovery, Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody, and Documentation; retain that four-exercise curriculum alongside the three-graded-exercise statement without resolving the discrepancy. These are course-completion conditions, with no separately identified examination.
Practical exercises grading
6VAC20-250-210 B 9 a requires: a. Successfully complete each of the three graded practical exercises required;
Restricted authority
The letter does not authorize bonding; file the powers within 30 days.
Statutory instruction
9.1-185.5 D 2 permits issuance with later filing within 30 days after receipt; the implementing rule/page imposes the temporary-letter 30-day period.
Temporary surety letter during renewal pending insurer power of attorney
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Insurance license
Maintain a current SCC property and casualty insurance-agent license.
Missing power
Applicant cannot obtain a qualifying insurer power of attorney before issuance; DCJS may issue the temporary letter for no more than 30 days.
Renewal
Meet timely surety renewal requirements, fingerprints, fees, good standing and eight-hour in-service training.
Restricted authority
The letter does not authorize bonding; file the powers within 30 days.
Statutory instruction
9.1-185.5 D 2 permits issuance with later filing within 30 days after receipt; the implementing rule/page imposes the temporary-letter 30-day period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Bail Bondsman Exam

Provider
DCJS-certified or licensed private security services training schools
Format
Written examination following entry-level bail bondsman training
Passing score
70%
Examination outline
  • Orientation - two hours
    • Ethical standards
    • Ethical standards / Professionalism
    • Ethical standards / Misrepresentation
    • Ethical standards / Conflicts of interest
    • Ethical standards / Information protection, confidentiality, and discretion requirements
    • Brief introduction to Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman
  • Law - 12 hours plus one practical exercise
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Definitions
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Licensing procedures and requirements
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Compulsory minimum training standards
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Standards of practice and prohibited acts
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Administrative requirements/standards of conduct
    • Code of Virginia and regulations relating to bail bondsman / Administrative reviews, complaints, procedures, and responsibilities
    • Basic law
    • Basic law / Legal terminology and definitions
    • Basic law / Purpose and function of law
    • Basic law / U.S. Constitution
    • Basic law / U.S. Constitution / Amendments
    • Basic law / U.S. Constitution / Bill of Rights
    • Basic law / Landmark cases
    • Basic law / Limitations and liability
    • Surety and property law
    • Surety and property law / Surety bail bondsman
    • Surety and property law / Surety bail bondsman / Insurance companies
    • Surety and property law / Surety bail bondsman / Agent vs. attorney-in-fact
    • Surety and property law / Surety bail bondsman / Virginia qualification requirements
    • Surety and property law / Property bail bondsman
    • Surety and property law / Property bail bondsman / Virginia property requirements
    • Surety and property law / Property bail bondsman / Agent requirements
    • Courts
    • Courts / Civil court system
    • Courts / Civil court system / Federal
    • Courts / Civil court system / State
    • Courts / Civil court system / Local jurisdiction
    • Courts / Civil court system / Definitions
    • Courts / Civil court system / Civil judicial procedures
    • Courts / Criminal court system
    • Courts / Criminal court system / State and federal
    • Courts / Criminal court system / Legal authority and related issues
    • Courts / Criminal court system / Liability concerns
    • Courts / Criminal court system / Definitions/interpretations
    • Courts / Criminal court system / Magistrates
    • Release from legal obligation
    • Release from legal obligation / When defendant answers charge
    • Release from legal obligation / Circulate the bail piece release
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / The recognizance
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / Preliminary hearing
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / Bond continuation pending pre-sentence report
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / Sentencing
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / Withhold findings
    • Release from legal obligation / Special considerations / Bond reinstatement
  • Fugitive recovery - 24 hours plus one practical exercise
    • Legal procedures
    • Legal procedures / Bondsman's legal right to recover
    • Legal procedures / Notice of show cause hearing
    • Legal procedures / Entry of finding of default
    • Legal procedures / Payment of forfeiture
    • Legal procedures / Recovery: 24 months from entry of finding of default
    • Legal procedures / Section 9.1-185.15 of the Code of Virginia, recovery of bailees
    • Criminal statutes
    • Criminal statutes / Liability considerations/liability insurance
    • Criminal statutes / Case law
    • Criminal statutes / Law enforcement
    • Criminal statutes / Law enforcement / State
    • Criminal statutes / Law enforcement / Federal
    • Criminal statutes / Reasonable force to effect apprehension
    • Use of recovery agents in Virginia
    • Use of recovery agents in Virginia / Virginia legal requirements
    • Use of recovery agents in Virginia / Recovery agents authority
    • Use of recovery agents in Virginia / Employee vs. independent contractor
    • Use of recovery agents in Virginia / Liability considerations/liability insurance
    • Investigative techniques
    • Investigative techniques / Surveillance
    • Investigative techniques / Court research
    • Investigative techniques / Law-enforcement coordination
    • Investigative techniques / Interviewing
    • Investigative techniques / Impersonation and misrepresentation
    • Investigative techniques / Reference materials and resource list
    • Investigative techniques / Skip-tracing techniques
    • Investigative techniques / Fugitive identification
    • Recovery procedures
    • Recovery procedures / Pursuit
    • Recovery procedures / Pursuit / Foot
    • Recovery procedures / Pursuit / Vehicular
    • Recovery procedures / Pursuit / Other
    • Recovery procedures / Entry and search
    • Recovery procedures / Perimeter/interior room control
    • Agent survival
    • Agent survival / Confrontation management
    • Agent survival / Use of force
    • Agent survival / Deadly force
    • Agent survival / Escalation of force
    • Agent survival / Emergency procedures
    • Apprehension of a fugitive
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Compliant versus noncompliant procedures
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Search of person
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Search of person / Personal items
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Search of person / Seizure of contraband
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Handcuffing techniques
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Rights of the accused
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Detainment and transportation
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / Interstate transport
    • Apprehension of a fugitive / False arrest
  • Responsibilities of bondsman and remanding to custody two hours plus one practical exercise
    • Recovery in Virginia
    • Recovery out of Virginia; Uniform Extradition Act
    • International recovery
    • Legal detainment facilities
    • Entering the jail or sally port
    • Signing the bail piece/return to court
    • Hospital procedures for injuries
  • Documentation - two hours plus one practical exercise
    • Required by the courts
    • Required by DCJS
    • Recordkeeping
    • Reporting
    • Retaining records
Examination sources