Q1.

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

A1.

When Initial Applications are made available by the Division of State Police, you may apply online by visiting the "How to Apply" link of the New Jersey State Police public website www.njsp.org.

Q2.

Do I need minimum qualifications to apply?

A2.

The minimum educational and employment requirements are listed at the "Minimum Qualifications" link of this website. It is important to review them carefully along with the qualification information. Once submitted your application will be screened for, automatic disqualifications, and completeness. Only applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will be permitted to continue in the applicant selection process.

Q3.

I understand the background investigation to be a New Jersey State Trooper is very involved. If I have been in trouble will I be automatically disqualified?

A3.

A New Jersey State Police background investigation is very thorough and comprehensive. You are strongly encouraged to review the background investigation information listed at the "Selection Process" link before you consider applying.

Q4.

Does the satisfactory work experience need to be consecutive for the over a 24 month period to meet the minimum work requirement?

A4.

No, satisfactory work experience does not have to be consecutive. It can be cumulative, totaling 24 months. Applicants pursuing initial eligibility utilizing work experience must have also obtained the requisite college credits by the deadline date of the open initial application period.

Q5.

What is satisfactory military or work experience?

A5.

Satisfactory military experience is defined as at least 24 months of active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Satisfactory work experience is defined as lawful full time (35 hours per week or greater) or part time employment, (not less than 20 hours per week). Applicants pursuing initial eligibility utilizing military or work experience must have also obtained the requisite college credits by the deadline date of the open Initial Application period.

Q6.

Does the NJSP accept lateral transfers?

A6.

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

Q7.

What type of retirement plan does the State Police have?

A7.

The State Police Retirement System has a wide variety of retirement benefits benefits depending on your years of service. More information is available at www.state.nj.us.treasury/pension/sprs1.htm.

Q8.

Can you transfer a police or fire pension to the State Police Retirement System?

A8.

Yes, you can transfer a pension membership account from another New Jersey public retirement system. Only service rendered as a member of the Division of State Police may be used to satisfy the minimum creditable service requirements for retirement. An out-of-state pension account is not eligible for transfer.

Q9.

Where will I be assigned after graduation from the New Jersey State Police academy?

A9.

After successful completion of the academy, you will be assigned to a Troop based on operational needs. (excluding Troop 'D' and 'E').
Road Station Locations

Q10.

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

A10.

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

Q11.

Is swimming a requirement in the Academy?

A11.

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

Q12.

How can I prepare myself for the NJSP Academy?

A12.

NJSP Academy offers a residential training experience in a highly structured and 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 that receive a conditional offer of employment from the Division of State Police will be provided with full program information including specific dates for the New Jersey State Police Pre-Employment Preparation Program - (PEPP Phase II) applicants are encouraged to attend in order to familiarize themselves with various Academy expectations. For more information on this voluntary program, contact the Selection Process Unit at 609-882-2000 ext 2951, 2853, 2850 or, the Recruiting Unit at 1-877-NJSP-877

Q13.

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

A13.

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.

Q14.

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

A14.

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.

Q15.

Can I wear jewelry while in uniform?

A15.

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.

Q16.

Must I be a resident of New Jersey at the time I graduate from the State Police Academy?

A16.

Yes, everyone, without exception, must be a resident of New Jersey prior to the graduation date of his or her State Police class.

Q17.

I am currently a college senior but I will not obtain my bachelor's degree by the current application deadline or have 24 months of satisfactory work or military experience. Am I eligible to apply?

A17.

By May 29, 2012, applicants that currently possess a minimum of 90 college credits from an accredited college or university in pursuit of a bachelor's degree that will fulfill all obligations to be conferred a degree by a September 1, 2012 are also eligible to apply.

Applicants obtaining initial eligibility through this option that do not obtain a bachelor's degree by September 1, 2012 will be ineligible to continue in the selection process regardless of work or military experience gained after May 29, 2012.

Q1.

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

A1.

The New Jersey State Police does not provide veterans preference. However, unlike non-veteran applicants, veterans with 24 months of active duty military service need only 30 college credits to be eligible to apply. In addition, besides successful completion of the written examination, military service is one of several factors considered when selecting qualified applicants advancing to the background investigation phase.

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.

Prior military service does not count. Credit for military service after enlistment in the Division of State Police will be administered consistent with the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act of 1994.

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 2 years of active duty military service, do I satisfy the minimum qualifications?

A7.

A minimum of 24 completed months of active duty military service, along with 30 college credits from an accredited college or university by the filing deadline, is required in order to satisfy the minimum educational/employment requirement.

Q8.

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

A8.

If you have not done so already, request a military transcript of credits you have earned from your military service. Each service branch has its own system for recording military education and experiences.

• The Army (AARTS system),
• Navy and Marines (SMART system)
• Air Force (The Community College of the Air Force)
• Coast Guard (The Coast Guard Institute)

Locate one of the many accredited colleges and universities that participate in offering life experience credits, as well as credits for certain military schools and courses. At your request, each service branch will send an official copy of your military transcript, which can be transcribed by the receiving institution.

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.

Q1.

I have held driver’s licenses in more than one state, should I submit Certified Driver’s Abstract for each of those states?

A1.

No, only submit the Certified Driver’s Abstract for your current driver’s license.

Q2.

I have never been issued a driver’s license in any state, what should I do?

A2.

Applicants claiming to have never possessed a driver’s license are not required to submit a Certified Driver’s Abstract, however, applicants must still complete and return the Driver’s Abstract Certification page provided at the end of the online application. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license before the Background Investigation Phase commences.

Q3.

What is the most expedient way to obtain a New Jersey Certified Driver’s Abstract.

A3.

The most expedient way for applicants possessing a New Jersey driver’s license to obtain a Certified Driver’s Abstract is in person at local New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Agencies offering walk-in service or at a New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Regional Service Center.

Q4.

Can I submit a non-certified Driver’s Abstract?

A4.

No.
Applicants must submit a Certified Driver’s Abstract. A Certified Driver’s Abstract is certified as a true abstract of an applicants driving history by the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission.

Q5.

I possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license. Should I submit a Certified Complete Driver’s History Record?

A5.

No.
A 5 Year Certified Driver’s Abstract is sufficient for applicants possessing a New Jersey Driver’s License.

Q6.

Does the Certified Driver’s Abstract have to be current?

A6.

Yes, the Certified Driver’s Abstract must be from the current year.

Q7.

I am currently on active duty in the military stationed outside of my state of residence. How do I submit my Certified Driver’s Abstract?

A7.

Active duty military personnel stationed outside their state of residence during the open online initial application period are exempt from submitting the Certified Driver’s Abstract. The open online initial application period will be delineated in the initial application.

Q8.

Can I submit a copy of my driver’s history obtained from a non-Division of Motor Vehicle Agency such as a police department, municipal court, or other non Motor Vehicle Agencies?

A8.

No, only a Certified Driver’s Abstract generated from a State Motor Vehicle Agency is acceptable.

Q9.

Who will incur the cost of obtaining a Certified Driver’s Abstract?

A9.

Applicants are responsible for all costs associated with obtaining a Certified Driver’s Abstract.