How to become a security guard in New Jersey
New Jersey security guards are licensed by the New Jersey State Police, Private Detective Unit (SORA). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed security guard in New Jersey, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a security guard in New Jersey?
- Pass a fingerprint-based criminal history check
- No conviction for a first-, second-, third- or fourth-degree crime or a controlled dangerous substance offense
- Do not work as a security officer until the State Police approve the application
- No reciprocity with other states
New Jersey security guard license requirements
| State license | Yes. Security officers must be registered with the New Jersey State Police under the Security Officer Registration Act (SORA). |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New Jersey State Police, Private Detective Unit (SORA) |
| License name | SORA Security Officer Registration (unarmed, "Yellow Card") |
| Education or training | 24-hour SORA training course taught by a state-certified SORA instructor, completed within 30 days of applying. Active law enforcement officers are exempt from the 24-hour course only. |
| License term | 2 years; 8-hour refresher course with a SORA-certified instructor before expiration to renew |
How much does it cost?
| Security officer initial application | $75.00 |
|---|---|
| Security officer renewal | $60.00 (fingerprint archive fees not included) |
| Initial fingerprints (SORA & PI) | $66.05 |
| Fingerprint archive fee (from Jan 1, 2025) | $19.62 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a security guard in New Jersey
- Create an account and submit the Security Officer application in the NJSP SORA applicant portal
- Pay the non-refundable fee by card
- Get fingerprinted through the IdentoGo link in your application
- Finish the 24-hour SORA course with a certified instructor within 30 days
- Wait for State Police approval before working
- Renew every 2 years after an 8-hour refresher course
Apply on the official New Jersey site
How do you check a security guard's license in New Jersey?
- Search the name or license number on the official New Jersey security guard license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.