Career roadmap
How to Become a New Accounts Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a new accounts clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a new accounts clerk: (1) finish high school, (2) work as a teller, (3) learn products, (4) open accounts, (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 new accounts clerk
Finish high school
Or GED.
Work as a teller
Common start.
Learn products
Training.
Open accounts
Build skills.
Advance
Personal banker.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| 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
- BSA/AML training: Required.
- Banking product training: Employer.
- Customer service training: Helpful.
- ABA banking courses: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with banking products, identity verification, and account opening systems, and practice friendliness and accuracy. Learning the new accounts clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Teller: Entry.
- New Accounts Clerk: Open accounts.
- Personal Banker: Advise.
- Branch Manager: Lead branch.
Get a head start
Our self-paced New Accounts 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 new accounts clerks need a degree?
No.
How long does it take to become a new accounts 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.
Do you need a degree to be a new accounts 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 new accounts clerks?
Common credentials include BSA/AML training, Banking product training, Customer service training, and ABA banking courses. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-4141 (New accounts clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for New accounts 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.