Career roadmap
How to Become a Billing Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a billing clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a billing clerk: (1) finish high school, (2) learn bookkeeping basics, (3) learn Excel and QuickBooks, (4) get hired, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a billing clerk
Finish high school
Or GED.
Learn bookkeeping basics
Course.
Learn Excel and QuickBooks
Skills.
Get hired
Billing clerk.
Advance
Billing specialist or AR lead.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; bookkeeping courses help.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist: For healthcare billing.
- QuickBooks certification: Software skills.
- Bookkeeping certificate: Helpful.
- Excel certification: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with invoicing, payment posting, and account reconciliation, and practice accuracy and organization. Learning the billing clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Billing Clerk: Entry.
- Billing Specialist: Complex accounts.
- AR Lead: Lead team.
- Billing Manager: Run billing.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Billing Clerk training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do billing clerks need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typical.
How long does it take to become a billing clerk?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; bookkeeping courses help.
Do you need a degree to be a billing clerk?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for billing clerks?
Common credentials include Certified Billing and Coding Specialist, QuickBooks certification, Bookkeeping certificate, and Excel certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-3021 (Billing and posting clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Billing and posting clerks (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.