How to Get a Booking Agent�s License in California

Who Needs a Booking Agent�s License?

Booking agents, also known as talent agents, are the link between artists and those who hire entertainers. In California, a talent agent/agency is defined as �a person or corporation who engages in the occupation of procuring, offering, promising, or attempting to procure employment or engagement for an artist or artists� (with the exception of recording contracts). Talent agencies may also �counsel or direct artists in the development of their professional careers.�

Artists include actors, musicians, directors, writers, cinematographers, composers, models, and others who work in the entertainment industry.

If you want to operate in California as a talent agent or open a talent agency, you must first be licensed by California�s Labor Commissioner.

What Does the Licensing Process Involve?

The licensing process is carried out by the California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standard Enforcement, Licensing and Registration Unit. Here is an overview of the steps in the process:

1. Obtain an application one of the following ways:
   • Using the Talent Agency Application Online System
   • Downloading it as a PDF file
   • Emailing a request for an application to DLSE.licensing@dir.ca.gov
   • Requesting one by mail or in person at the Licensing and Registration Unit, 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1902, Oakland, CA 94612
2. Gather the required supporting documentation listed on the Licensing and Registration web page. This will involve purchasing a $50,000 talent agency surety bond.
3. Pay the $25 filing feeand submit the completed application and supporting documents.
4. Pay the $225 license fee when a new or renewal license is issued.

Why is a Surety Bond Required?

The talent agency business, like many others, carries the potential for causing financial harm to the public unless it operates in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The surety bond requirement ensures that funds will be available to compensate anyone who suffers a financial loss as a result of a talent agency�s unlawful or unethical actions.

How Does It Work?

Every surety bond agreement is a legally binding contract that gives an injured party the right to file a claim against the bond and receive payment for damages. There are three parties to a booking agent/talent agency surety bond agreement, which are the state of California (the �obligee� that requires the bond), the talent agency (the �principal� required to purchase the bond), and the company that underwrites and issues the bond (the �surety�).

The obligee specifies the conduct that would be a violation of the surety bond agreement. The principal is legally obligated to pay every valid claim against the bond. The surety decides what the principal will pay for the bond and investigates each claim to make sure it�s valid.

Although the responsibility for paying claims rests with the principal, in many cases, the surety will pay a claim upfront to expedite payment and give the principal some time to gather the necessary funds. However, the principal must then reimburse the surety.

How Booking Agent Licensing Works in California

The annual premium for any type of surety bond is only a fraction of the bond�s �penal� amount (the maximum amount that will be paid on a claim). The surety bases the premium rate primarily on the principal�s personal credit score. The higher the credit score, the lower the premium rate. If your credit score is low, you should still be able to get bonded, but you will pay a higher premium rate.

Get Bonded Today

Request an online quote today for the surety bond you need to work as a booking agent or talent agency in California. Or, call and discuss your bonding needs with one of our surety bond experts.