FAQ
Orderly FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an orderly.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an orderly: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about orderlies
Do orderlies need certification?
Usually not; CPR is often required.
Is this a path into nursing?
Yes, many orderlies advance.
Is the job physical?
Yes, with lots of walking and lifting.
How much does an orderly make?
The median annual wage for orderlies was $38,290 ($18.41 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $32,240 and the highest 10% earned more than $50,600.
How long does it take to become an orderly?
Most people need about 1–4 weeks of training. A high school diploma is typical, plus short on-the-job training.
Do you need a degree to be an orderly?
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 orderly a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.0% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 7,200 openings each year. Upsides include quick entry into healthcare; a common challenge is that modest pay.
What skills does an orderly need?
Key technical skills include safe patient handling, wheelchair and stretcher use, infection control, and basic patient care. Employers also value reliability, kindness, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for orderlies?
Common credentials include BLS CPR, Safe patient handling training, Certified Patient Care Technician, and CNA. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Orderly fit quiz, compare with Certified Nursing Assistant, or explore Orderly training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-1132 (Orderlies).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Orderlies (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.