State license required
How to become a security guard in New Jersey
Last reviewed August 28, 2026 · Regulator: New Jersey State Police — SORA Unit
New Jersey requires SORA certification from the State Police: 24 hours of state-certified training covering professional conduct, use-of-force law, detention, first aid, and terrorism awareness, renewed every 2 years.
At a glance
Steps to get started
- Complete the 24-hour SORA training with a state-certified instructor.
- Submit fingerprints for state and federal checks and apply to the NJSP SORA unit ($75).
- For armed work, separately obtain a NJ Permit to Carry through your local police department.
- Renew every 2 years (annually for armed) — notices go out 90, 60, and 30 days before expiry.
SORA Certification (Security Officer): Renewal training through a licensed SORA instructor is required each cycle — confirm current refresher hours with the NJSP.
Working armed in New Jersey
Armed officers (21+) must hold both SORA certification and a separate New Jersey Permit to Carry a Handgun, renew annually, and complete 8 hours of yearly refresher instruction.
Armed SORA Certification: Armed officers also need a separate NJ Permit to Carry a Handgun — SORA certification alone does not authorize carrying. 8 hours of annual refresher with a licensed SORA instructor.
Sources
tessura is an independent study and career tool, not affiliated with any state agency. Rules change — always confirm current requirements with the regulator before relying on them.
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