New Jersey Police Badge Requirements & Regulations Guide
Complete guide to PTC certification, badge standards, and law enforcement credentials in the Garden State
New Jersey law enforcement badges are governed by the Police Training Commission (PTC) certification requirements. All sworn officers must be PTC-certified. New Jersey follows East Coast shield traditions strongly influenced by proximity to NYPD. The state’s 21 county sheriff’s offices typically use shield or modified shield designs rather than stars. Security badges are strictly regulated under N.J.S.A. 45:19A.
- ~35,000 sworn law enforcement officers
- 21 county sheriff’s offices
- ~500 police departments
- NJ State Police: ~3,000 troopers
- 11th most populous state (9+ million residents)
PTC Certification Requirements
- Complete PTC-approved Basic Course for Police Officers (minimum 960 hours—one of the longest in the nation)
- Pass state certification examination
- Be employed by a New Jersey law enforcement agency
- Meet extensive background, medical, and psychological requirements
- Complete annual in-service training
Badge Styles in New Jersey
New Jersey’s badge traditions are heavily influenced by neighboring New York and Pennsylvania:
- Municipal Police: Shield designs dominate throughout the state
- Sheriff’s Offices: Unlike most states, NJ sheriffs often use shields or modified designs rather than stars
- State Police: Distinctive triangular design
- Port Authority (shared with NY): Shield with PA emblem
Major New Jersey Departments
| Agency | Type | Sworn Officers | Badge Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newark Police | Municipal | ~1,100 | Shield |
| NJ State Police | State | ~3,000 | Triangular |
| Jersey City Police | Municipal | ~900 | Shield |
| Essex County Sheriff | Sheriff | ~500 | Shield |
New Jersey’s coastal humidity and winter road salt exposure require durable badge construction. Specify hard enamel and quality plating for all NJ badges. Shore departments should consider marine-grade finishes.
- New Jersey has ~35,000 sworn officers across 520+ agencies
- PTC certification with 960-hour academy (among longest in U.S.)
- Shield designs dominate—even for sheriffs (unusual)
- Strong NYPD influence on badge traditions
The Bottom Line
New Jersey’s law enforcement community follows East Coast shield traditions, with even sheriff’s offices often using shield-style badges rather than the stars common elsewhere. The state’s rigorous training standards reflect a highly professional force.
For more information, see our procurement guide or explore NYPD badge history for context on regional traditions.