Career roadmap
How to Become a Postal Clerk
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a postal clerk, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a postal clerk: (1) apply on USPS careers, (2) pass the assessment, (3) complete training, (4) work as a clerk, (5) advance. Most people need about A few weeks of training. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a postal clerk
Apply on USPS careers
Online.
Pass the assessment
Hiring steps.
Complete training
Retail academy.
Work as a clerk
Window and distribution.
Advance
Lead clerk or supervisor.
Education and training requirements
No formal educational credential is required; applicants pass USPS hiring steps.
| 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 | A few weeks of training |
Certifications and licenses
- USPS retail training: Required.
- Customer service training: Helpful.
- Hazmat acceptance training: USPS.
- Cash handling: USPS.
Skills to build now
Start with postal rates, mail classes, and cash handling, and practice courtesy and patience. Learning the postal clerk vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Postal Clerk: Entry.
- Lead Clerk: Lead.
- Supervisor: Lead.
- Postmaster: Run office.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Postal 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 I need a degree?
No.
How long does it take to become a postal clerk?
Most people need about A few weeks of training of training. No formal educational credential is required; applicants pass USPS hiring steps.
Do you need a degree to be a postal clerk?
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 postal clerks?
Common credentials include USPS retail training, Customer service training, Hazmat acceptance training, and Cash handling. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-5051 (Postal service clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Postal service 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.