Oregon is a state that values personal liberty and a pioneer spirit, which is exemplified by the “Oregon Pioneer” statue standing atop the state capitol building. It contains the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake, which is world-renowned. Sometimes, as with every state, criminals go on the run from the law. In Oregon, these fugitives are hunted by licensed law enforcement officers. Bounty hunters are expressly forbidden in this state, but those wishing to get involved in a similar field can pursue employment as a private detective.
Oregon Bounty Hunter Requirements
You cannot become an authorized or licensed bounty hunter in Oregon. It’s one of four states that prohibit the practice, as well as commercial bail bonding. Those who wish to pursue a similar career can endeavor to become a licensed private investigator.
Basic State Requirements
- Education: Formal instruction of at least 500 hours can substitute for experience requirements.
- Age: All private investigators must at minimum be a legal adult.
- Degree: While a degree is not required to work as a P.I., earning education in criminal justice can be helpful.
- Experience: Private investigators must have 1,500 hours of fact-finding work experience before being accredited as a private investigator. This usually requires working for a PI or detective agency.
- Citizenship: You must be legally eligible to work in the United States.
Additional Requirements
- Background Screening: Fingerprint screening including a PS-4 affidavit are required for licensure.
- Insurance: A corporate bond is required of at least $5,000, plus errors and omissions insurance of $5,000.
- Exam: After your application is submitted, you must complete the 50-question PI Ability Test.
Oregon Bounty Hunter License
- License Application: Your application must include 3 professional references, two recent passport-style digital photos, your resume, a testing and fingerprinting authorization fee of $79, and a licensing fee of $550.
- Licensure: Your permit is valid for two years, during which time you must complete 32 hours of continuing education, two of which must be in ethics.
Oregon Bounty Hunter Education
Degrees in criminal justice, in law enforcement, in forensics, in psychology or sociology, or similar fields can be very helpful in developing your skills.
Major Cities in Oregon
Major Oregon cities include Portland, Salem, Eugene, Beaverton, and Bend. PIs can be found in most major city centers.
Job Duties of a Bounty Hunter in Oregon
Again, there are no bounty hunters in Oregon, but private investigators perform a wide variety of investigative and fugitive tracking duties, often in conjunction with local law enforcement. You must be educated in and obey all relevant state and federal laws.
Related Careers
Private Investigations are closely related to law enforcement and court process servers, who present summons and paperwork for outstanding court cases.
Employment Numbers in Oregon
Employment figures for private investigators in Oregon, according to most projections, indicate that the job field is going to expand by a full 18% over the next five years.
Oregon Bounty Hunter Salary
Salary figures for PIs indicate that, on average, a private detective in Oregon should make around $42,690 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Bounty Hunter Programs and Schools in Oregon
Bounty Hunter Programs and Schools in Oregon
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. Private investigators are used by law firms, law enforcement, insurance companies, as well as individuals to conduct investigations to build criminal and civil cases. A degree related to criminal justice could benefit an aspiring private investigator greatly. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!