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NJ SORA Certification (Initial Training)

State‑Approved • In‑Person & Virtual • Flexible Scheduling • Led by Law Enforcement Professionals

Start your security career with CPS Training's New Jersey SORA Certification Course — a state‑approved, employer‑trusted program designed to prepare you for real‑world security work.

We offer in‑person and virtual classes, with weekday, weekend, and evening options to fit your schedule.

Whether you're entering the security field for the first time or transitioning from another career, our training gives you the skills, confidence, and credentials you need to get hired fast.

➡️ Register Now — Seats Fill Quickly

What Is SORA Certification?

The Security Officer Registration Act (SORA) is New Jersey's mandatory certification for most security officer positions. To work legally as a security guard in NJ, you must:

  1. Register with the NJ State Police

  2. Complete fingerprinting

  3. Complete a state‑approved 24‑hour SORA training course

  4. Receive your SORA card

CPS Training guides you through every step.

🎓 What You'll Learn in Our SORA Initial Course

Our curriculum is aligned with New Jersey State Police requirements and taught by experienced law enforcement professionals.

Course Topics Include:

  • NJ security officer laws & regulations

  • Use of force & de‑escalation

  • Ethics & professionalism

  • Emergency response procedures

  • Report writing & communication

  • Situational awareness

  • Terrorism awareness

  • Fire safety & evacuation

  • Handcuffing fundamentals (where applicable)

  • Career pathways in security

This training prepares you for real‑world security work, not just certification.

🖥️ In‑Person or Virtual — Your Choice

We offer both formats to meet your needs:

Virtual Training

  • Live instructor‑led sessions

  • Interactive discussions

  • State‑approved

  • Perfect for students with transportation or schedule challenges

In‑Person Training

  • Hands‑on learning

  • Classroom interaction

  • Ideal for students who prefer face‑to‑face instruction

Flexible Scheduling

  • Weekday classes

  • Weekend classes

  • Evening options

  • Fast‑track sessions available

➡️ View Upcoming Class Dates

📝 SORA Certification Requirements

To complete your SORA certification, you must:

1. Register with the NJ State Police

We provide step‑by‑step guidance.

2. Complete Fingerprinting

We help you schedule your appointment.

3. Complete the 24‑Hour SORA Course

In‑person or virtual — your choice.

4. Receive Your SORA Card

This allows you to work legally as a security officer in NJ.

CPS Training supports you through the entire process.

💼 Job Placement Support

Security companies across New Jersey trust CPS Training graduates.
We help you connect with employers hiring for:

  • Retail security

  • Corporate security

  • Residential security

  • Event security

  • Armed and unarmed positions

  • Loss prevention

  • Patrol services

Many students secure interviews immediately after certification.

 

🔥 Why Choose CPS Training for SORA Certification?

✔ Led by Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals

Real‑world insight from instructors who've served NJ communities.

✔ In‑Person & Virtual Options

Choose the format that fits your life.

✔ Flexible Scheduling

Weekdays, weekends, and evening classes.

✔ State‑Approved & Employer‑Trusted

Meets all NJ State Police requirements.

✔ Job Placement Support

We will help you get hired fast.

✔ Multi‑Service Training Center

SORA • Firearms • CPR • Legal Protection • Guns.com Affiliate

CPR Instructor Julian Collins (l) and his dad, Daniel Collins, SORA Instructor

CPR Instructor Julian Collins Sr (l) and his dad Daniel Collins, SORA Instructor 

SORA Security Officer Requirements in New Jersey

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the SORA Initial course?

24 hours, typically completed over 2–3 days.

Do you offer virtual SORA training?

Yes — our virtual classes are live, interactive, and state‑approved.

Do I need SORA to work as a security officer?

Yes — most NJ security jobs require a valid SORA card.

What do I need to bring to class?

A valid ID, notebook, and a willingness to learn. We provide everything else.

How soon can I start working after training?

Many students begin applying immediately after receiving their SORA card.

Armed Security Officer_edited.jpg

Important information  before booking

The initial 24-hour training involves three weekly training days, and renewal sessions involve 8-hours of training. Please get in touch with us to arrange personalized days of instruction, including virtual training.

Upon completion of the armed SORA training, the applicant will be eligible for firearms training if they possess the required documents from the state.

Before an applicant can undergo firearms training and carry a firearm in NJ, they must possess the following:

  1. An NJ Firearms Identification Card

  2. Own a firearm. If you don't own a weapon, you must obtain a handgun purchasing permit from the local municipal police department to purchase a gun.

  3. A valid photo ID

  4. Have a permit to carry a weapon. You will obtain the carry application from the local police department.

 

Additionally, the New Jersey State Police has authorized "virtual training" for SORA candidates. Prospective students should contact our office for more information. If you are an interested prospective student, you must supply the following for the virtual training course:

  • Before starting the "virtual/online" training process, a valid government photo identification and a valid SORA Temp/Application number card.

  • Additionally, students must send a digital photo to their instructor before starting the training course.

In addition, a student considering the virtual online course must use the following:

  • a desktop or laptop computer with a web camera

  • Download the free Zoom application.

Due to its unique training, our main office is the site for the in-person CPR Training since it requires hands-on proficiency demonstration. So please call before registration.

So that you know, you must attend the initial training session to receive your SORA and CPR Certifications. 

If you cannot attend a class due to unseen events or emergencies, please contact us at least 8 hours before class. Just letting us know of your absence will help us reschedule the course to finish your certification. 

If you miss one class without notice, you will forfeit your certification, and your payment will be non-refundable. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: REFUND POLICY:

CPS Training will provide its services in good faith. No refunds upon completion of the training service, and the applicant is responsible for ensuring all information entered into the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) web portal is accurate and correct. CPS Training will not be liable for nor give a refund for any error made during the NJSP application process, nor will a refund be given if the NJSP declines to issue a SORA license to the applicant. 

 

Additionally, there is no refund if the applicant fails to meet the state-mandated firearms qualifications. However, they may qualify for a partial refund, minus the non-refundable registration fees, if the applicant provides documentation to CPS Training about unforeseen circumstances that may prevent an applicant from completing the training. Payment for training services represents an understanding and acceptance of this refund policy.

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