If you want to work in private security or private investigations - even if you're a retired police officer - you must have Security Officer Registration Act (SORA) training. While some can work under someone else's license, that will traditionally pay less than having your license. Obtaining your license may also expand your job prospects significantly.
The license requires 24 hours of classroom instruction.
SORA training is a three-step process that can be completed within 30 days. These steps include registration with the New Jersey State Police, completing a 24-hour, in-class training program with a certified SORA instructor, and fingerprinting.
Topics Covered
- Role of a Security Guard
- NJ Attorney General’s Use of Force Policy
- Security Measures: Prevention and Deterrence
- Suspicious Letters and Packages
- First Aid Awareness
- Ethics
- Report Writing
- Active Shooter
Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years of age
- You must have a valid photo ID
- You must register with the New Jersey State Police to obtain your 30-day temporary certificate. You must pay for the $75 application fee when applying. You will be assigned an application ID number that you must present to the instructor.
- You must be fingerprinted. You can schedule your fingerprints when you create your account with the State Police. They will provide a link to schedule your fingerprints. You will only have 30 days to complete the process, which includes your SORA class. You must pay the fingerprint processing fee at the time of your appointment.