Career roadmap
How to Become a Cashier
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a cashier, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a cashier: (1) apply at stores and restaurants, (2) learn the register, (3) build speed and accuracy, (4) take on more, (5) advance. Most people need about Several days. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a cashier
Apply at stores and restaurants
Many hire without experience.
Learn the register
Practice scanning and payments.
Build speed and accuracy
Balance your drawer every shift.
Take on more
Train new cashiers or work customer service.
Advance
Become a front end supervisor or move into office roles.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Cashiers learn on the job in a few days.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Several days |
Certifications and licenses
- NRF Foundation RISE Up Customer Service: Retail customer service credential.
- Responsible alcohol and tobacco sales training: Training for age-restricted sales.
- Food handler card: For cashiers in food service.
- Cash handling training: Accuracy and fraud prevention.
Skills to build now
Start with pos operation, cash handling, and payment processing, and practice friendliness and accuracy. Learning the cashier vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Cashier: Run a register.
- Customer Service Desk: Handle returns and questions.
- Front End Supervisor: Lead cashiers.
- Assistant Store Manager: Manage store operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Cashier 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
How long does it take to become a cashier?
Most people need about Several days of training. No formal education is required. Cashiers learn on the job in a few days.
Do you need a degree to be a cashier?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for cashiers?
Common credentials include NRF Foundation RISE Up Customer Service, Responsible alcohol and tobacco sales training, Food handler card, and Cash handling training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 41-2011 (Cashiers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Cashiers (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.