Q1.

How do I obtain an application to become a New Jersey State Trooper?

A1.

Applications can be obtained at State Police stations, county clerk offices, state police recruiters, and the NJSP website.

Q2.

Can I apply online?

A2.

No, applications can be downloaded and mailed to the recruiting unit for processing.

Q3.

Do I need minimum qualifications to apply?

A3.

Applications are screened for minimum qualifications, automatic disqualifications, and completeness. Applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will be considered for selection. Applicants that do not possess the minimum qualifications will not continue in the applicant selection process.

Q4.

Does the work experience for the minimal requirements need to be full time for the entire two years?

A4.

No, work experience does not have to be consecutive. It can be accumulative, totaling 2 years.

Q5.

Does the NJSP accept lateral transfers?

A5.

No, all applicants must apply and proceed through the selection process regardless of your current job training.

Q6.

What type of retirement plan does the State Police have?

A6.

The State Police has a wide variety of retirement benefits depending on your years of service.

Q7.

Can you transfer a police, fire pension?

A7.

Yes, you can transfer a pension plan. However, you may not transfer an out-of-state pension plan.

Q8.

Where will I be assigned after the academy?

A8.

After successful completion of the academy, and consistent with operational needs, you will be assigned to the Troop geographically closest to your residence (excluding Troop 'D' and 'E').
Road Station Locations

Q9.

Can I join the State Police and immediately begin a specialist assignment?

A9.

No, everyone, without exception, is assigned to general road duty responsibilities for at least two years.

Q10.

Is swimming a requirement in the Academy?

A10.

Swimming is not required to enter the Academy. However, recruits are required to successfully complete the 40 hour Water Safety program during Academy training. Applicants are strongly recommended to be familiar with basic swimming strokes and be comfortable in the water. It would be beneficial to those individuals, who are marginal or non-swimmers, to practice or receive instructions in upgrading their swimming skills prior to entry into the Academy. To find out how to receive more information on improving swimming skills, please visit the YMCA Web site at:. http://www.YMCA.net

Q11.

How can I prepare myself for the NJSP Academy?

A11.

NJSP Academy training is a highly structured and highly disciplined environment. Academy life is extremely demanding and stressful, and is designed to prepare the recruit for the physical and mental demands of being a New Jersey State Trooper. Applicants appointed to the NJSP Academy are strongly advised to organize their personal affairs, finances, and family matters prior to entering the NJSP Academy. Recruits often separate from Academy training for failure to organize their personal affairs prior to entry.
Applicants should be training at least 4 days a week, upon approval from your personal physician. The intensity of the workouts should be increasing gradually each week. Applicants having difficulty increasing the intensity, frequency or duration of their workouts, may want to consider the NJSP Pre-Employment Preparation Program (PEPP). For more information on this voluntary program, contact the Recruiting Office at:
609-882-2000 ext 2853 or 1-877-NJSP-877.

Q12.

Will running on a treadmill sufficiently prepare me for the running program in the Academy?

A12.

While running on a treadmill can help increase cardiovascular endurance, it alone will not provide the necessary resistance required to avoid susceptibility to lower extremity injuries. Academy training includes running on a variety of surfaces including dirt, grass, asphalt and sand, in all weather conditions.

Q13.

Does the New Jersey State Police have a policy regarding tattoos?

A13.

Yes.
No tattoos/body art/brands on an enlisted member's face, head, neck, scalp, hands, or any parts of the exposed body shall be visible when in uniform or in civilian clothing while on duty. Additionally, no member shall publicly or privately display a tattoo/body art/brand that is prejudicial to good order, discipline, or causes a discredit to the member or the Division while acting in any capacity.

Q14.

Can I wear jewelry while in uniform?

A14.

Yes.
However, no visible jewelry of any kind may be worn above the shoulders while in uniform. Jewelry which detracts from the professional appearance of an enlisted member, or which constitutes a safety hazard, is not permitted. This would include, but not limited to, dental ornamentation.

Q1.

If I served in the military, do I receive status of preference?

A1.

The New Jersey State Police does not provide veterans preference.

Q2.

Can I take the test prior to my E.T.S. date from the military?

A2.

Yes

Q3.

Can I stay in the military reserves if selected to the NJSP?

A3.

Yes, but you must complete the academy and meet the necessary training requirements. Military leave is available for active reservists.

Q4.

Does my military time count as years served with the State Police?

A4.

No

Q5.

If I qualify for the State Police but serve in the military overseas, will the State Police mail my commander the test to be proctored so I can proceed with the selection process?

A5.

No, the test is proctored by members of the NJSP to maintain the integrity of the test and fairness. You should make a request for authorization leave so you can take the test at the designated test sites.

Q6.

If my military occupation required a top-secret clearance or confidential status, does the State Police assist financially in moving me back to New Jersey?

A6.

No, you must be a resident of New Jersey at the completion of the academy and absorb any moving expenses upon your E.T.S. date from the military.

Q7.

If I have two years active military, do I satisfy the minimum qualifications?

A7.

Two years of active duty military service along with 30 college credits from an accredited college or university will satisfy the minimum educational requirement.

Q8.

How do I get college credits for my military schools and time served?

A8.

Locate one of the many colleges that participate in giving life experience credits as well as credits for certain military schools and courses.

Q9.

If I have a military specialist occupation, can I pursue the same occupation in the State Police?

A9.

Yes, however, every member starts his/her career as a general road duty Trooper. A Trooper may then apply for any of our 120 different units.