The New Jersey Application For Retention of Professional (NEAR) is an application submitted by individuals interested in maintaining their professional credentials in the State of New Jersey. It is used to apply for the retention of professional licenses such as those for attorneys, real estate agents, architects, engineers, and many other professions. The application requires information such as the applicant's name, contact information, education background, work history, and other pertinent details. There are two types of NEAR: the Initial Application and the Renewal Application. The Initial Application is used for applicants applying for professional retention for the first time, while the Renewal Application is used by individuals who already have an active professional license and are seeking to renew it. Both applications must be accompanied by the required documents, such as a copy of the applicant's resume and proof of continuing education credits, and must be submitted to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.