NJ SORA Class in Middletown — 24-Hour Armed & Unarmed Security Certification

24-Hour SORA Training in New Jersey

The Security Officer Registration Act (SORA) requires all aspiring security guards in New Jersey to complete a 24-hour certification course with an NJSP-approved instructor. Bernard Shalkowski offers this armed and unarmed SORA class in the Middletown area, with options for both online and in-person attendance.

Since 2007, SORA training has been mandatory for all contract security positions throughout the state. This class prepares you for the certification exam and qualifies you for both armed and unarmed security roles.

Choose Your Training Format

Bernard Shalkowski may offer this SORA class in the following formats:

• Live Virtual Training (Zoom): Complete the entire 24-hour course from your home in Middletown or anywhere with reliable internet. Perfect for busy schedules. Camera must be active throughout — NJSP requires visual confirmation of attendance.
• Classroom Training: Face-to-face instruction in the New Jersey area. Ideal if you prefer a structured, in-person learning environment.

Check with the instructor to see which options are currently available for upcoming sessions.

What You’ll Learn

This 24-hour curriculum covers all NJSP-mandated topics for security officer certification:

• New Jersey Security Officer Registration Act (SORA) — your legal authority, responsibilities, and limitations as a security officer
• Use of Force — NJ Attorney General’s Use of Force Policy, de-escalation techniques, and when force is legally justified
• Emergency Response — fire safety, evacuation procedures, first aid basics, and emergency communication
• Report Writing — proper incident documentation, daily activity reports, and evidence preservation
• Ethics & Professional Conduct — professional standards, confidentiality, and conduct expectations
• Access Control & Patrol — securing entrances, patrol techniques, surveillance, and suspicious activity detection
• Homeland Security Awareness — counter-terrorism basics, threat recognition, and reporting procedures
• Armed Security Topics — NJ firearms laws, safe handling, and armed officer responsibilities (for armed certification)

Your Path to NJ Security Guard Certification

Getting your SORA license involves three steps. The entire process must be finished within 30 days from when you submit your application:

Step 1: Register with NJ State Police

Apply online at eapps.njsp.org. The application fee is $75 (credit/debit card only). Save your login credentials — you’ll need them later. Print your Temporary Certificate of Registration as a PDF.

Step 2: Take This SORA Training Course

Complete all 24 hours of this NJSP-approved training course with Bernard Shalkowski. Attendance for the full duration is mandatory — there is no partial credit. Bring your Temporary Certificate and a valid photo ID.

Step 3: Get Fingerprinted

Schedule fingerprinting through IdentoGo ($68.98 fee). Book early — appointments can fill up 2-3 weeks out. Fingerprinting can be done before or after the class, but must be completed within your 30-day window.

What to Bring to Class

• NJSP Temporary Certificate of Registration (printed or PDF)
• Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID)
• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• For virtual classes: working webcam, stable internet, and a quiet distraction-free space

Security Guard Jobs in New Jersey, NJ

New Jersey is part of New Jersey and offers security employment opportunities across corporate offices, healthcare facilities, retail centers, and residential communities.

After getting your SORA certification, you can pursue positions with corporate security, healthcare facility security, retail loss prevention, and residential building security.

New Jersey's diverse economy provides security employment across multiple sectors.

Nearby areas also served: surrounding communities throughout the area.

Key Facts About SORA Certification

• 30-day deadline: From the moment you submit your NJSP application, you have 30 days to complete training and fingerprinting
• Mandatory since 2007: Every contract security officer in New Jersey must hold a valid SORA certification
• Validity: Unarmed certificates last 2 years; armed certificates last 1 year — mark your renewal date
• E-SORA is here: As of late 2024, New Jersey is transitioning to electronic SORA IDs, replacing physical cards
• Instructor-led only: Self-study courses are not accepted — you must train with a registered NJSP instructor like Bernard Shalkowski

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take this class online from Middletown?
Many instructors offer live virtual training via Zoom. Contact Bernard Shalkowski to confirm online availability for upcoming sessions.

Do I need fingerprints before the class?
No. You can complete fingerprinting before or after the class, but it must be done within your 30-day application window.

What happens if I miss part of the class?
NJ State Police policy requires attendance for the entire 24 hours. If you miss any portion, you’ll need to restart the full course.

Is this for armed or unarmed guards?
This 24-hour course covers both armed and unarmed topics. Your specific certification type is determined by your NJSP application.

How soon can I start working after completing the class?
Once you’ve completed the training, NJSP application, and fingerprinting, your certification is processed by the State Police. Processing times vary, but many students begin working within 1-2 weeks.

Questions? Get in Touch

Reach out to instructor Bernard Shalkowski at 732-500-5593 for class schedule information, pricing, and to reserve your spot. Classes fill up — don’t wait until the last minute.