What qualifications does the designated manager/owner need?

All owners and operators must meet minimum qualifications: age 25+ and either five years of law enforcement experience (and no longer employed/attached to any law enforcement agency) or five years in a supervisory/management capacity with a licensed security officer company (N.J.A.C. 13:55A-2.1; P.L. 2023, c.320 ).

Do employees of my security business also need licenses?

Yes. Individual security officers must register under SORA and meet training/background requirements before working assignments ( N.J.A.C. 13:55A-3.2 ; N.J.A.C. 13:55A-4.1 ).

Is there a difference in fees based on the size of my business?

Fees are set by rule and are not scaled by company size. Each owner/operator pays a $300 non‑refundable application fee; renewals are $200 for the company license (N.J.A.C. 13:55A-2.2; N.J.A.C. 13:55A-2.7 ).

What happens if my application is denied?

Denials may occur for reasons listed in the regulations (for example, certain criminal convictions or false statements). You may reapply when you meet all requirements ( N.J.A.C. 13:55A-2.9 ).

Are there ongoing compliance requirements after licensing?

Yes. Maintain the $5,000 bond; ensure all employed security officers are SORA‑registered; and keep employee and location records and notifications in the form and timeframes required by rule ( N.J.A.C. 13:55A-6.3 ).

New Jersey Private Security License

Licensing Requirements

Private Security License Requirements in New Jersey — Full checklist of New Jersey requirements, fees, and steps.
Private Security License in Connecticut
Private Security License in Delaware
Private Security License in Maine
Private Security Licensing — All States — State-by-state private security licensing overview.

Related Licensing Guides

Private Security License Requirements in Oklahoma (2026 Guide) — A complete guide to private security licensing in Oklahoma: the Oklahoma Private Security Company License, Oklahoma Department of Public Saf
Private Investigator License Requirements in New Jersey (2026 Guide) — A complete guide to private investigator licensing in New Jersey: the New Jersey Private Detective License, New Jersey State Police - Privat
Private Security License Requirements in Indiana (2026 Guide) — A complete guide to private security licensing in Indiana: the Indiana Private Security Company License, Indiana Department of Public Safety
Private Security License Requirements in Pennsylvania (2026 Guide) — A complete guide to private security licensing in Pennsylvania: the Pennsylvania Private Security Company License, Pennsylvania Department o