Towing Issues: repo, thomas investigative publications, repossession industry

Question
QUESTION: Mr Cantrell,

Is there a certification that you recommend a newcomer to the repossession industry procure before I try to acquire any clients? CARS certification seems to be the most popular that Ive been able to find on the Internet. Or maybe you will tell me that it doesn't mean anything to have it, like I said I am very new to this industry. I have many things to line up before I actually go looking for clients, I guess the best place to start is getting some type of repossession certification to promote before I meet with prospective clients.

ANSWER: What state are you in?

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QUESTION: I live in Virginia, most of my work will be in Virginia, but I plan on servicing parts North Carolina.

Answer
Virginia is a self-help repossession state. You can repossess secured collateral as long as you do not breach the peace. I was not able to find anything on the license requirements in Va.
I am in the process of putting together a certification program through our local private investigation association (Alabama Private Investigator's Association). This will be available for out of state agents as well and will be nationwide. You can check for a book I published through Thomas Investigative Publications titled Professional's Guide to Auto Repossessions. Let me know if I can help.