Career roadmap
How to Become a Payroll Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a payroll clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a payroll clerk: (1) finish high school, (2) learn bookkeeping basics, (3) get hired in payroll, (4) earn the FPC, (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 payroll clerk
Finish high school
Or GED.
Learn bookkeeping basics
Course.
Get hired in payroll
Entry role.
Earn the FPC
Credential.
Advance
Payroll specialist or CPP.
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
- FPC: Fundamental Payroll Certification.
- CPP: Certified Payroll Professional.
- Payroll software certifications: Helpful.
- Bookkeeping certificate: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with payroll processing, wage and hour law, and payroll taxes, and practice accuracy and confidentiality. Learning the payroll clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Payroll Clerk: Entry.
- Payroll Specialist: Complex payroll.
- Payroll Supervisor: Lead team.
- Payroll Manager: Run payroll.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Payroll 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 payroll clerks need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typical.
How long does it take to become a payroll 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 payroll 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 payroll clerks?
Common credentials include FPC, CPP, Payroll software certifications, and Bookkeeping certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-3051 (Payroll and timekeeping clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Payroll and timekeeping 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.