FAQ
Bank Teller FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a bank teller.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a bank teller: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about bank tellers
Do bank tellers need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typical.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects decline, but turnover creates openings.
What’s a universal banker?
A teller who also opens accounts and sells products.
How much does a bank teller make?
The median annual wage for bank tellers was $43,030 ($20.69 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,360 and the highest 10% earned more than $49,680.
How long does it take to become a bank teller?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a bank teller?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is bank teller a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -13.2% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 26,800 openings each year. Upsides include short training; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a bank teller need?
Key technical skills include cash handling, transaction processing, fraud detection, and banking products. Employers also value accuracy, friendliness, and trustworthiness.
What certifications are available for bank tellers?
Common credentials include Bank teller certificate, BSA/AML training, Customer service training, and Universal banker training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Bank Teller fit quiz, compare with Loan Officer, or explore Bank Teller training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-3071 (Tellers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Tellers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.