California Guide License Bond

The California Guide License Bond is a type of surety bond required by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for anyone applying for a fishing or game guide license. the bond amount is $1,000 and  the cost of the surety bond is usually the minimum premium and fees of $150.

How to Get a California Guide License Bond

At Surety1.com we make it easy to obtain this surety bond. Our simple, three step process is:

1. Complete the easy to navigate and secure online application. ¹
2. Review the free, no obligation quote from one of Surety1’s professional surety bond agents, usually within one business day.
3. Sign some paperwork and pay the bond premium

Once these steps have been completed, the California Guide License Bond will be shipped to the bond applicant.
^{1 -The name of the applicant on the surety bond application must match exactly the full legal business name of applicant for the license.} 

Surety1.com is a service of AssuredPartners one of the largest and fastest growing insurance agencies in the nation. Representing over a dozen surety bond companies, Surety1.com is the premier online provider of surety bonds nationwide since 2003.

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How to become a licensed guide in CA

The process of becoming a licensed guide in California depends on the specific type of guide you want to be. Here’s a general overview, and remember to always check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website for the latest requirements and application details:

1. Determine the type of guide license you need:
   • Fishing Guide: If you wish to guide clients on fishing trips, you need a Guide License from the CDFW. There are separate licenses for freshwater and saltwater fishing.
   • Hunting Guide: To guide clients on hunting trips, you require a Hunting Guide License from the CDFW. Different licenses exist for big game, small game, and bird hunting.
   • Combined Hunting and Fishing License: You can also opt for a combined license to guide clients on both hunting and fishing activities.
   • Other Specialized Licenses: California offers additional licenses for guiding specific activities like commercial passenger fishing vessel operations, whale watching, and scientific collecting.

2. Meet the eligibility requirements:
   • Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
   • Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien.
   • Experience: Certain licenses require documented experience in the related field (e.g., fishing or hunting).
   • Education: Some licenses may require specific educational qualifications, such as CPR or first aid certification.
   • Criminal background check: You must pass a criminal background check with no convictions for wildlife-related offenses or certain other crimes.

3. Complete the application and pay fees:
   • Download and fill out the relevant application form from the CDFW website.
   • Gather required documents like proof of citizenship, residency, experience, and education.
   • Pay the application and license fees.

4. Pass the knowledge exam:
   • Each license type requires passing a specific knowledge exam administered by the CDFW. These exams test your understanding of relevant laws, regulations, wildlife management practices, and safety procedures.
   • Study materials and exam preparation courses are available from the CDFW and various private providers.

5. Obtain a California Guide License Bond:

Additional Resources:

• CDFW Guide License Information: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Guide 
• CDFW Hunter Education Program: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Hunter-Education
• CDFW Fishing Education Program: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Learning

Remember, these are general steps, and specific requirements may vary depending on the type of guide you wish to become. Always consult the official CDFW resources for the latest and most accurate information.