How to become a bailiff
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You could do a credit control and debt collection specialist advanced apprenticeship before moving into bailiff work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
Direct Application
Your employer will give you the training you need to get a Bailiff General Certificate. You'll need this before you can carry out any bailiff duties by yourself.
You'll need to:
- prove to a county court judge that you’re a ‘fit and proper person', with no criminal or debt record
- have knowledge of bailiff law
- put a £10,000 bond in place with the court - you can take out an insurance policy to cover this
- provide 2 references
You'll find it useful to have:
- work experience in sales, the military, the prison service (HMPPS), housing or the police
- experience in dealing with the public in difficult situations
To work as a court-appointed bailiff or high court enforcement officer you may also need GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths.
More Information
Further information
You can find details on relevant training for enforcement officers from the Chartered Institute of Credit Management.
You can find out how to train as a high court enforcement officer from the High Court Enforcement Officers Association.