Top 10 Cashier Certifications

Certifications for cashiers are important in the job market because they demonstrate that a cashier has been trained to handle money and customer transactions accurately and efficiently. Employers look for cashiers who have certifications to ensure they are knowledgeable in their field and can perform their duties with accuracy and professionalism. Certifications also show employers that the cashier is dedicated to learning best practices in customer service, problem solving, and financial management. Additionally, many employers require some form of certification before hiring a cashier, so having it can be essential to getting hired.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for cashiers and how they can help advance their careers.

What are Cashier Certifications?

Cashier certification is a type of training program designed to help cashiers develop the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job duties in a safe, efficient, and accurate manner. The certification typically covers topics such as customer service, money handling, product knowledge, inventory control, and more. Cashier certification can help ensure that cashiers are well-prepared for their job duties and that they understand how to handle different types of transactions correctly. Additionally, it can help cashiers stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices so that they can provide customers with the best possible service. By becoming certified, cashiers can also demonstrate their commitment to their employer and increase their chances of being promoted or receiving raises.

Pro Tip: When looking for a cashier certification program, make sure to find one that provides comprehensive training on the specific type of cash register you will be using. This will help ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully complete transactions and provide excellent customer service.

Related: What does a Cashier do?

Top 10 Cashier Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Cashiers today.

1. Certified Cashier Training Program

A Certified Cashier Training Program is a comprehensive program designed to teach cashiers the basics of handling money and providing customer service. The program typically includes instruction in topics such as counting money, making change, processing credit card transactions, and using registers. It also covers customer service skills such as communication techniques and how to handle difficult customers.

The length of the Certified Cashier Training Program varies depending on the provider. Most programs take between 8-16 hours to complete, with some taking up to 24 hours.

To get certified, individuals must first find a training provider that offers the program. Many community colleges, vocational schools, and private businesses offer cashier training programs. After finding a provider, individuals can register for the program and pay any associated fees.

The cost of a Certified Cashier Training Program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, these programs range from $50-$500 or more depending on the length of instruction and materials provided.

2. Certified Retail Cashier Certification

Certified Retail Cashier Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of retail cashiers. It is offered through the National Retail Federation (NRF), which is a non-profit organization that represents the retail industry in the United States. The certification provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in customer service, cash handling, product knowledge, and other essential skills required to work in a retail environment.

The Certified Retail Cashier Certification program takes approximately 8 hours to complete and consists of two parts: an online exam and an onsite practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as customer service, cash handling, product knowledge, store operations, and more. After passing the online exam, individuals must then complete an onsite practical assessment at an approved NRF testing center. During this assessment, participants will be tested on their ability to accurately process transactions using a point-of-sale system.

The cost of the Certified Retail Cashier Certification program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $200 - $400 USD to take the exam and complete the practical assessment.

3. National Retail Federation Cashier Certification

The National Retail Federation (NRF) Cashier Certification is a program designed to help retail employees learn the skills needed to provide excellent customer service. The certification is offered through the NRF and is valid for two years.

The certification consists of four modules that cover topics such as customer service, product knowledge, cash handling, and safety. It takes approximately two hours to complete all four modules. Once completed, the certification must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid.

To get certified, individuals must first register with the NRF website and pay a fee of $50 USD. After registering, they will be able to access the online course material and take the exam at their own pace. Upon completion of the exam, individuals will receive their certificate via email within 24 hours.

The NRF Cashier Certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in retail or demonstrate their commitment to providing excellent customer service.

4. American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) Certified Cashier

The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) Certified Cashier is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward excellence in cash management. It is the only certification program that focuses exclusively on cash management for bookkeepers. The certification helps employers identify qualified bookkeepers who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in cash management.

It takes approximately 6-8 weeks to complete the AIPB Certified Cashier program. To get certified, you must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as basic accounting principles, financial statements, accounts receivable/payable, payroll, banking procedures, and more. After passing the exam, you will receive an official certificate from AIPB.

The cost of the AIPB Certified Cashier program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for the online exam and associated materials.

5. Certified Professional Cashier (CPC)

Certified Professional Cashier (CPC) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the retail cashier profession. It is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and is recognized by employers throughout the United States.

The CPC certification process includes an online exam that covers topics such as customer service, cash handling, accounting principles, and inventory management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and receive their certification.

To become certified, applicants must first register for the exam through NRF’s website. After registration, applicants will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access their online account where they can view their exam results and download their certificate upon passing.

The cost of the Certified Professional Cashier (CPC) exam is $125 USD.

6. Certified Payment Card Industry Professional (PCIP)

Certified Payment Card Industry Professional (PCIP) is a professional certification program developed by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC). The PCIP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a deep understanding of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which is a set of technical and operational requirements created to ensure the secure handling of cardholder data.

The PCIP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in implementing, managing, and maintaining PCI DSS compliant environments. To achieve this certification, applicants must pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of all 12 PCI DSS requirements. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a PCIP, applicants must first purchase the exam from the PCI SSC website for $250 USD. Once purchased, applicants will be provided with access to a practice exam and study materials that can help them prepare for the actual exam. After passing the online exam, applicants will receive their official PCIP certificate along with a digital badge they can use on their website or social media profiles.

7. National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) Cashier Certification

The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) Cashier Certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and understanding of cash handling procedures. It is designed to demonstrate the ability to perform basic cashiering functions in accordance with established industry standards.

The certification requires a minimum of 10 hours of training, including classroom instruction, online courses, or self-study materials. The program covers topics such as basic accounting principles, financial record keeping, customer service and cash handling techniques. Upon successful completion of the program and passing the final exam, individuals will receive their NACPB Cashier Certification.

To get certified, individuals must first complete the required training and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost for the certification varies depending on which type of training is chosen; however, it typically ranges from $100-$200. Once certified, individuals must renew their certification every two years by completing at least four hours of continuing education credits in order to maintain their status as a NACPB Certified Cashier.

8. National Restaurant Association ServSafe Food Handler and Cashier Certification

The National Restaurant Association ServSafe Food Handler and Cashier Certification is a program designed to help ensure that foodservice workers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle food. The program is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and provides comprehensive training on topics such as food safety, proper hygiene practices, cross-contamination prevention, temperature control, and more.

The certification consists of two parts: an online course and a proctored exam. The online course takes approximately three hours to complete and covers all the material needed for the exam. The proctored exam is taken at an approved testing center or online via a web-based proctoring service. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

To get certified, individuals must first register for the course through the National Restaurant Association's website or through an approved provider. Once registered, individuals will receive access to the online course material and instructions on how to take the exam.

The cost of certification varies depending on where you take it; however, most courses range from $50-$100 USD per person.

9. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Guest Service Professional/Cashier

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Guest Service Professional/Cashier is a certification program designed to help hospitality professionals develop and demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing excellent customer service. It is intended for individuals working in the hospitality industry who are responsible for interacting with guests, including front desk agents, cashiers, bell staff, and concierge personnel.

The certification program consists of an online course that takes approximately 8 hours to complete. The course covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication techniques, problem solving strategies, conflict resolution tactics, and more. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from AHLEI.

To get the AHLEI Certified Guest Service Professional/Cashier certification you must first register for the online course through AHLEI’s website. You will then be able to access the course materials and take the exam at your own pace. Once you have successfully completed the exam you will receive your certificate of completion via email.

The cost of this certification program is $99 USD plus applicable taxes.

10. International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE) Certified Hospitality Cashier

The International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education (ICHRIE) Certified Hospitality Cashier is a certification program designed to provide hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage cash transactions in a hospitality setting. The program is designed for hospitality professionals who have at least one year of experience in the field. It covers topics such as cash handling procedures, customer service, accounting principles, security practices, and more.

The certification process takes approximately three months to complete. Candidates must complete an online application form and submit it along with their resume and other supporting documents. Once approved, candidates will be required to attend an ICHRIE-approved training course that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Upon successful completion of the course, candidates must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

To get ICHRIE Certified Hospitality Cashier certification, candidates must pay a fee which varies depending on the provider they choose. Generally speaking, the cost of the certification can range from $400-$800 USD depending on the provider chosen.

Overall, obtaining ICHRIE Certified Hospitality Cashier certification is beneficial for those looking to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in managing cash transactions within a hospitality setting.

Do You Really Need a Cashier Certificate?

When it comes to working in the retail industry, there is no doubt that having a cashier certificate can be a great asset. A cashier certificate is a credential that proves an individual has been trained and certified in the area of customer service and sales. This certification can demonstrate that a person has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a cashier. It also shows potential employers that the applicant is knowledgeable about handling money, providing excellent customer service, and being able to work efficiently.

Having a cashier certificate can be beneficial for both employers and employees alike. For employers, having someone on staff who has received this type of training can be reassuring. Knowing that their staff is knowledgeable and competent in this particular field can help them feel confident in their decision to hire someone for the job. Additionally, having an employee with this type of certification may make them more attractive to potential customers as they will know they are dealing with someone who knows what they’re doing.

For employees, having a cashier certificate can open up many opportunities for advancement within their career path. Having this kind of certification on your resume demonstrates to employers that you have taken your career seriously enough to gain additional training and knowledge in order to improve your skillset. Employers will also likely view you as someone who is committed to staying up-to-date on new technology or trends related to the position which could lead to increased wages or promotions down the line.

In conclusion, while it may not always be necessary for those looking for employment in retail stores or restaurants, having a cashier certificate can certainly be beneficial both for employers and employees alike. It demonstrates integrity, commitment, and knowledge which are all qualities desirable by most employers when hiring new staff members or promoting existing ones.

Related: Cashier Resume Examples

FAQs About Cashier Certifications

1. What is a cashier certification?

A cashier certification is an official document that demonstrates the holder's knowledge and understanding of basic cash handling and customer service principles. It is typically issued by a retail or hospitality organization, such as a grocery store or restaurant, after successful completion of a course or program.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a cashier?

The length of time needed to become certified as a cashier depends on the type of certification program you are taking. Generally, most programs can be completed in 1-3 days.

3. What topics are covered in a cashier certification program?

Cashier certification programs usually cover topics such as customer service techniques, cash handling procedures, POS systems and security protocols.

4. Is there an exam I need to pass for my cashier certification?

Yes, most certifying organizations require you to pass an exam in order to obtain your certificate. The exam will test your knowledge and understanding of the topics covered during the course or program.

5. Does my employer have to pay for my cashier certification?

It depends on your employer's policy; some employers may offer reimbursement for your expenses while others may require you to pay out-of-pocket and be reimbursed later. It's best to check with your employer before signing up for any certifications courses or exams.