What to Expect

The New Jersey State Police Academy is located in Sea Girt, New Jersey, and training consists of approximately 24 weeks. The Academy is residential, and each recruit is required to report for training each Monday at 6:00 a.m. The recruits are dismissed each Friday at approximately 6:00 p.m.

Recruits will receive extensive education and personal training in various areas of law enforcement including law enforcement science, self-defense, leadership, crisis intervention, driving, military drill, first aid, water safety, mental health, wellness, and resilience. The written examinations require a minimum passing score of 70%. The practical assessments are hands-on scenarios that require recruits to demonstrate proficiency in the subject matter and skills covered in the unit.

Recruits participate in approximately 60 hours of firearms instruction and are required to qualify on the range with each weapon with a passing score of 80%. Recruits are required to pass a firearms safety quiz with a passing score of 100%, before they are allowed to participate in the live fire training. Recruits will be issued a firearm upon graduation.

Recruits will be instructed in the use of pepper spray and will experience the effects in a controlled environment.

Recruits must reside in the State of New Jersey and possess a valid New Jersey Driver's License upon graduation.