Everything you need to know about the Security Officer Registration Act — from NJSP registration to receiving your E-SORA card. Follow these steps and you'll be working as a licensed security officer in New Jersey.
Total Estimated Cost
Training Required
To Get Licensed
NJSP Registration
IdentoGo Fingerprinting
Training Class Fee
Total estimated cost: $263–$543 for initial certification. Renewal is cheaper ($60–$200 for the 8-hour class + $75 re-registration).
Visit the official NJSP SORA application portal to start your registration. You'll need:
After completing the application, you'll receive a 30-day temporary Application ID number. All remaining steps (fingerprinting and training) must be completed within this 30-day window.
NJSP SORA Application Portal: eapps.njsp.org/applicant/logon.do
Important: Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you. The NJSP Superintendent makes the final determination on eligibility.
All SORA applicants must complete a biometric fingerprint screening. This is handled by IdentoGo (formerly MorphoTrust).
Pro tip: Schedule your fingerprinting and training class around the same time to complete everything within the 30-day window. A credit card is highly recommended but not always required.
Enroll in a 24-hour initial SORA training class with an NJSP-approved instructor. Classes are available in-person and virtually across all 21 New Jersey counties. Typical cost ranges from $120–$400.
The 24-hour curriculum includes:
Find an instructor near you
Use NJ SORA Portal to compare 400+ verified instructors by county, price, class type, and schedule.
Search Training ClassesAfter you complete training, your instructor submits your roster to the NJ State Police. Once the NJSP processes your application (registration + fingerprints + training verification), you'll receive your Electronic SORA ID (E-SORA) card digitally.
E-SORA Card (New as of Nov 2024): New Jersey replaced physical SORA cards with digital E-SORA cards. Your E-SORA is available through the NJSP portal and serves as your official authorization to work as a security officer in NJ.
Processing time is typically 2–4 weeks. Once issued, your SORA certification is valid for two years.
Your SORA certification expires every two years. To renew, you must complete an 8-hour recertification class with an NJSP-approved instructor before your current card expires.
Do not let your certification lapse. If your SORA card expires, you cannot legally work as a security officer until you recertify.
If you need to carry a firearm on duty, you must obtain an Armed SORA certification in addition to your standard (unarmed) SORA. The armed training process includes:
Search for NJSP-approved SORA training classes near you. Compare prices, schedules, and reviews across all 21 NJ counties.
