AL HB356

Professional bondsmen must complete a 12-hour instructional course and pass an examination administered by a statewide bail bond association approved by the Association of Circuit Judges before soliciting or executing appearance bonds.

Professional bondsmen must complete 8 hours of continuing education annually and submit proof of completion to relevant court officials by January 31 each year.

Maximum fees are $500 for the initial 12-hour course and examination, and $500 for the annual 8-hour continuing education course.

Collected fees are distributed as: 85% to the administering association, 5% to the local Judicial Administrative Fund, 5% to the circuit clerk's fund, and 5% to the Alabama Sheriff's Association.

Professional bondsmen who fail to comply with certification or continuing education requirements are suspended from practicing until satisfactory proof of compliance is provided to the appropriate judicial officer.