How to Get a Court Reporter License in New Jersey
Last updated: March 2, 2026
New Jersey is a densely populated state with high property values and strong commuter-market demand, making it an excellent place to start a career as a court reporter. Licensing in New Jersey is overseen by the New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board. The process requires 2400 hours of pre-license education and costs between $21,500 and $22,500 in total. You'll need to pass the New Jersey CSR Exam (administered by New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board) with a score of at least 70%.
At 2400 hours, New Jersey has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 2400 hours. Budget between $21,500 and $22,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring court reporters complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
New Jersey Court Reporter License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 2400 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — New Jersey CSR Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $125 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Governing Body | New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Court Reporter License in New Jersey
- 1
Complete a Court Reporting Program
Enroll in a NCRA-approved court reporting program. Programs teach machine shorthand (stenography) and require reaching speeds of 225+ WPM.
Time: 2-4 years Cost: $350 - 2
Achieve Required Speed Proficiency
Practice stenography to achieve minimum speed requirements: 225 WPM for testimony, 200 WPM for jury charge, and 180 WPM for literary material.
Time: Included in program - 3
Pass the New Jersey CSR Exam
Register and pass the RPR or state-specific certification exam. The exam tests real-time writing speed and accuracy. The exam fee is $200.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $200 - 4
Apply for State Certification
Submit your application to the New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board. Include exam results, program transcripts, and the application fee of $125.
Time: 2-6 weeks Cost: $125 - 5
Begin Your Court Reporting Career
Once certified, you can work as a court reporter in New Jersey. Positions are available in courtrooms, depositions, captioning, and CART (real-time translation) services.
Time: Immediate once certified
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The New Jersey CSR Exam is administered by New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: New Jersey requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: New Jersey accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How New Jersey Compares
New Jersey requires 2400 hours of pre-license education for court reporters. This is close to the national average of 2400 hours. The average total cost in New Jersey is around $22,000, compared to the national average of $18,000. New Jersey's 2-year renewal cycle is longer than the national average of 1.2 years.
How Much Does a Court Reporter License Cost in New Jersey?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $125 |
| Exam Fee | $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $21,500 - $22,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 24 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $75
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 2400 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Practice speed building daily: Reaching 225 WPM on the stenotype machine requires consistent daily practice. Use speed-building software and dictation exercises. Many students who drop out do so because they underestimate the time commitment.
- Consider CART and captioning careers: Beyond courtroom work, court reporters are in high demand for CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) for deaf/hard-of-hearing individuals and broadcast captioning. These roles often pay well and offer remote work flexibility.
- Budget approximately $22,500 for your New Jersey license: This includes $125 in application fees, $200 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $75 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a court reporter license in New Jersey?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (2400 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a court reporter license in New Jersey?
The total cost ranges from $21,500 to $22,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($125), and the exam fee ($200).
Can I get a New Jersey court reporter license with a criminal record?
The New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a court reporter in New Jersey?
No. New Jersey does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 2400 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in New Jersey?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: New Jersey Certified Shorthand Reporters Board