What is the Difference Between the SORA Training Level 1 and Level 2?
New Jersey’s Security Officer Registration Act (SORA) requires all security officers to be registered with the state, and provides procedures for their training and registration. The Act defines security officers as any person (excluding law enforcement officers) who protects people or property from harm and provides observation and deterrence of unlawful activity.
While all security officers must undergo SORA training, there are different levels of certification depending on whether the security officer carries a firearm.
SORA Level 1 training is required for all security officers working in the state of New Jersey.
The SORA Level 2 training is a form of SORA certification for armed security officers. Any security officer that is properly licensed to carry a firearm in the State of New Jersey and works as a security guard either with a private security firm or as an in-house security officer must be licensed through SORA with a SORA LEVEL-2 Armed Designation.
What Are NJ SORA License Classes’ Requirements?
There are three steps to getting your SORA license:
- You must take an approved SORA training course.
- You must get fingerprinted.
- You must register and apply with the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) to get a 30 day “Temporary Certificate of Registration as a Security Officer.”
You will only have 30 days to complete these steps, including your SORA course. The best way to ensure completion within this time frame is to schedule your SORA course, and then apply for your certificate.
In addition to these three steps, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid form of photo ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
FAQs About SORA License
How do I get fingerprinted correctly for the SORA License?
You must be fingerprinted by the state licensed agency. The MorphoTrust fingerprinting form is provided at the end of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) application. Please make sure to use the correct form.
If you live or work twenty miles or more outside the New Jersey border, you will be required to submit “ink and roll” fingerprint cards. These can be submitted directly to the NJSP Private Detective Unit (not directly to MorphoTrust), along with the completed Universal Form and a check payable to MorphoTrust.
You will only need to be fingerprinted upon initial registration for the SORA license, AFTER completing the course.
How long is my SORA License good for?
The SORA 1 registration must be renewed every 2 years. Your license must be renewed before your current SORA license expires.
Officers holding a SORA 2 license will need to renew their license annually.
How do I renew it?
You must submit a renewal application before expiration of your current SORA license. You will receive an email at 90 days, 60 days, and 30 days before your current SORA license expires.
Officers holding a SORA 2 license must also attend an 8-hour block of instruction by a licensed SORA instructor every year.
After completion of our renewal course we will notify the New Jersey State Police of your results.