New Jersey Private Security and Private Investigation Licensing Guide

New Jersey regulates private detectives under the Private Detective Act and regulates security officers and security officer companies under the Security Officer Registration Act administered by the Superintendent of State Police.

Last reviewed: February 2026

How Licensing Works in New Jersey

New Jersey regulates private investigation through the Private Detective Act framework administered by the Superintendent of State Police. This structure covers private detective licensing and related agency controls administered by the New Jersey State Police.

New Jersey regulates private security through the Security Officer Registration Act (SORA). Under this framework, security officer companies are licensed by the Superintendent, and security officers are subject to registration requirements administered by the New Jersey State Police.

New Jersey operates as a centralized, statewide regime for these regulated activities through the State Police.

Licenses Issued by the State

Security Services

  • New Jersey Security Officer Registration
  • New Jersey Security Officer Firearms Certification

Private Investigation Services

  • New Jersey Private Detective License
  • New Jersey Private Detective Agency License

Operational Notes for Multi-State Firms

New Jersey separates private detective regulation from security officer regulation, with both administered through the Superintendent of State Police. Firms should distinguish between private detective services and security officer services when mapping licensing and registration obligations.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing requirements, regulators, and statutes may change without notice. Always confirm licensing requirements through official state channels.