Top 11 Document Clerk Certifications

Certifications for document clerks are important in the job market because they provide proof of a worker’s knowledge and skills. They demonstrate that the worker has been trained and is competent in their field. This can be extremely beneficial for employers, who want to hire workers that have proven their ability to handle the job duties associated with a document clerk. Additionally, certifications show employers that the employee is dedicated and motivated to stay up-to-date on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. Ultimately, these certifications can help a document clerk stand out among other job candidates and give them an edge when competing for positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Document Clerks and explain how they can help further a document clerk's career.

What are Document Clerk Certifications?

Document clerk certification is a program designed to help individuals learn the skills necessary to become successful document clerks. Document clerks are responsible for handling and organizing documents in a variety of settings, including legal offices, medical facilities, and corporate offices. Document clerk certification provides students with the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in this field.

The program covers topics such as filing systems, document organization, data entry, record keeping, scanning and imaging documents, and filing procedures. It also provides instruction on how to use various office software programs such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Pro. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of the principles behind document management systems and learn how to troubleshoot common problems that occur within these systems.

By obtaining document clerk certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge of the job requirements and show potential employers that they have the necessary skills for success. The certification also helps employers identify qualified candidates who are able to perform tasks quickly and accurately. Furthermore, those who receive document clerk certification may be eligible for higher salaries or promotions due to their increased qualifications.

Pro Tip: When pursuing document clerk certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the specific certification you are interested in. Some certifications may require a certain level of experience or education, while others may be open to anyone who meets the basic criteria. Additionally, check with local employers to ensure that the certification you are considering is recognized in your area.

Related: What does a Document Clerk do?

Top 11 Document Clerk Certifications

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

1. Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+)

Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+) is an internationally recognized certification program developed by AIIM, the Association for Information and Image Management. The CDIA+ certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of document imaging professionals in the areas of scanning, indexing, storage, retrieval, security and workflow.

The CDIA+ exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. To earn the certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To take the CDIA+ exam, applicants must first register with AIIM and pay a fee of $400 USD. After registering for the exam, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the test online.

The cost for taking the CDIA+ exam is $400 USD. This fee covers all materials related to taking and passing the exam including registration fees, study guides, practice exams and other resources needed to prepare for the test.

2. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and experience of records management professionals. It is awarded by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM) and is internationally recognized as a mark of excellence in the field.

The CRM designation requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in areas such as records management principles, legal requirements, technology, and best practices. The ICRM also requires applicants to have at least three years of professional experience in records management or related fields.

To obtain the CRM designation, applicants must complete an application form, submit a resume and three letters of recommendation, pass a written examination, and pay a fee. The written exam consists of two parts: a general records management section and an elective section that allows applicants to choose from various topics related to their specific field. The exam typically takes four hours to complete.

The cost for obtaining the CRM designation varies depending on whether you are an ICRM member or not. For non-members, the total cost is $550 USD; for members it is $450 USD.

3. Certified Document Management Professional (CDMP)

Certified Document Management Professional (CDMP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the areas of document management, records management, and information governance. The CDMP certification is offered by ARMA International, a not-for-profit professional association dedicated to advancing the practice of managing information as a strategic asset.

The CDMP certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam tests candidates on their knowledge of document management principles and best practices. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply those principles in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about 6 months for an applicant to complete both parts of the CDMP certification process. To get started, applicants must first register for the online exam through ARMA International’s website. Once registered, applicants will have access to study materials and resources that can help them prepare for the exam. After passing the online exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience and expertise in document management practices.

The cost of the CDMP certification program varies depending on the type of membership you have with ARMA International. For non-members, it costs $495 USD for the exam and $200 USD for the practical assessment. For members, it costs $395 USD for the exam and $100 USD for the practical assessment.

4. Certified Electronic Document Management Professional (CEDMP)

Certified Electronic Document Management Professional (CEDMP) is a professional certification program for individuals who are involved in the management, organization, and storage of electronic documents. The certification is offered by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM).

The CEDMP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of two years' experience in managing electronic records. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as document management systems, document retention policies, digital signatures, and more.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the CEDMP certification process. To get started, applicants must first register with the ICRM and pay a registration fee. After registering, applicants can begin studying for the exam using study materials provided by ICRM. Once they have studied enough to feel confident about taking the exam, they can schedule their exam at an approved testing center.

The cost of obtaining the CEDMP certification varies depending on how many exams you take and which study materials you purchase from ICRM. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 to obtain your CEDMP certification.

5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of competency in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security. The CISA designation certifies that an individual has the knowledge and experience to audit, control, monitor, and assess an organization’s information technology and business systems.

To become certified as a CISA, individuals must pass an exam administered by ISACA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as IT governance, risk management, audit process management, information systems acquisition and implementation, IT operations management, protection of information assets, business continuity planning and disaster recovery planning.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements before they can take the exam. They must have at least five years of professional experience in at least two of the five domains covered on the exam or hold a bachelor's degree plus three years of professional experience in two of the five domains.

The cost for taking the CISA exam is $575 for members of ISACA or $760 for non-members. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 which must be paid when submitting an application to take the exam.

6. Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP)

Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP) is a certification program designed to help professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to become an expert in document solutions. The certification is offered by the International Association of Document Solutions Professionals (IADSP).

The CDSP program consists of three levels: Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDS), Advanced Certified Document Solutions Professional (ACDS) and Master Certified Document Solutions Professional (MCDS). Each level requires a different set of qualifications, including education, experience, and training.

To become certified at any of these levels, individuals must pass an exam administered by IADSP. The exams are offered online or in-person at various locations around the world. The cost for each exam varies depending on the level being taken.

Once an individual has successfully completed all three exams, they will be awarded the CDSP certification. This certification is valid for two years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or attending conferences related to document solutions.

The cost of obtaining the CDSP certification depends on which level you are seeking and how many courses you need to take to qualify for each level. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from six months to one year to complete all three levels of the CDSP program.

7. Microsoft Office Specialist: Word Expert

Microsoft Office Specialist: Word Expert is an advanced certification that validates a user’s ability to use Microsoft Word in the workplace. This certification requires users to demonstrate their skills in creating and formatting documents, managing long documents, working with tables and graphics, collaborating on documents, and more.

It typically takes about 10-12 hours of study to prepare for the exam. The exam itself consists of 50 questions and must be completed within 75 minutes. The cost of the exam varies by country but typically ranges from $100-$150 USD.

To get certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist: Word Expert, you must pass the Microsoft Office Specialist: Word Expert Exam (77-887). You can take this exam at any Pearson VUE or Certiport testing center.

8. Adobe Certified Expert: Acrobat Pro DC

Adobe Certified Expert: Acrobat Pro DC is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates expertise in using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC to create, edit, and manage PDF documents. It is designed for professionals who need to demonstrate their proficiency with the software.

The certification exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

To get the certification, you must first purchase the exam voucher from Adobe’s website. The cost of the voucher is $180 USD. After purchasing the voucher, you can register for and take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certificate, you will be listed as an Adobe Certified Expert on Adobe’s website and receive a digital badge that can be shared online or used on your resume or business cards.

9. CompTIA Project+ Certification

CompTIA Project+ is a certification that validates the skills of project managers. It is designed to demonstrate a project manager’s ability to manage projects of all sizes, from small to large. It covers the entire project life cycle, from initiation and planning through execution and closure.

The certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least 12 months of experience in leading or directing projects, as well as knowledge of project management best practices.

The cost of the CompTIA Project+ exam varies by country but typically ranges from $200 - $300 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. After passing the exam, you will receive your CompTIA Project+ certification and can use it to demonstrate your expertise in project management.

10. EDRM e-Discovery Certification

EDRM e-Discovery Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the electronic discovery process. It is designed to help legal professionals, corporate counsel, IT professionals, and other stakeholders understand the complexities of e-discovery. The certification is offered by the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM), an organization dedicated to providing standards and best practices for electronic discovery in litigation.

The EDRM e-Discovery Certification consists of three levels: Certified EDRM Professional (CEP), Certified EDRM Expert (CEE) and Certified EDRM Master (CEM). Each level requires a different number of hours of instruction and exams. The CEP requires 12 hours of instruction and two exams; the CEE requires 24 hours of instruction and three exams; and the CEM requires 36 hours of instruction and four exams.

To get certified, you must first register for the course on the EDRM website. After registration, you will be provided with access to online course materials which include videos, documents, quizzes, webinars, simulations, etc., as well as access to an online forum where you can interact with other students. Once you have completed all required coursework, you will need to take a final exam for each level in order to receive your certification.

The cost for each certification level varies depending on whether or not you are a member of EDRM. Non-members pay $500 per level while members pay $400 per level. Additionally, there is an annual membership fee of $250 if you choose to become a member.

11. AIIM Digital Credentialing Program

AIIM Digital Credentialing Program is a comprehensive program designed to help organizations and individuals validate their digital skills and knowledge. It provides an industry-recognized credential that can be used to demonstrate expertise in the areas of information management, digital transformation, and data governance.

The program consists of five courses: Introduction to Information Management; Digital Transformation Foundations; Data Governance Foundations; AIIM Certified Professional (ACP); and AIIM Certified Expert (ACE). Each course has its own prerequisites, duration, cost, and exam requirements. The duration for each course varies from one day to two weeks depending on the level of complexity.

To get the AIIM Digital Credentialing Program certification, you must first complete all five courses and pass the exams associated with each course. After completing the courses, you will receive a certificate that verifies your credentials as an AIIM certified professional or expert.

The cost for the entire program depends on which individual courses you choose to take. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000 USD for all five courses plus exam fees. However, if you are a member of AIIM's Professional Association or have access to certain discounts through your employer or educational institution, this cost may be reduced significantly.

Once you have completed all five courses and passed the associated exams, you will receive an official certificate verifying your credentials as an AIIM certified professional or expert. This certificate is valid for three years after which time you must renew it by taking additional continuing education classes or passing additional exams.

Do You Really Need a Document Clerk Certificate?

When it comes to obtaining a document clerk certificate, the answer as to whether or not you really need one depends on your career goals and the specific requirements of your job. Document clerks play an important role in businesses and organizations, helping with the organization of documents, filing paperwork, and other administrative tasks. As such, depending on the type of job you are applying for, having a document clerk certificate could be beneficial.

Having a document clerk certificate can give you an edge over other applicants competing for the same position. It shows that you have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and training in this field, which is often seen as a sign of commitment and dedication. Additionally, if your employer requires certain certifications or qualifications in order to work as a document clerk, then having a certificate in this area may be necessary.

If you are looking to pursue a career as a document clerk but do not currently possess any formal certification or qualification in the field, then taking some courses or gaining experience through an internship may be beneficial. There are many online courses that offer comprehensive training for aspiring document clerks that can help prepare you for entry-level positions or even provide more advanced instruction if needed.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a document clerk certificate depends on your individual situation. If it is required for the particular job you are applying for or would give you an advantage over other candidates, then it may be worth pursuing. However, if no certification is necessary and your employer does not require it specifically for the position, then gaining additional knowledge and experience through other means may be more beneficial in achieving your career goals.

Related: Document Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About Document Clerk Certifications

1. What is a Document Clerk Certification?

A Document Clerk Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a document clerk. The certification covers topics such as filing, scanning, indexing, organizing, and other related document management tasks.

2. How do I obtain a Document Clerk Certification?

To obtain a Document Clerk Certification, you must pass the exam administered by an approved certifying body or organization. The exam typically covers topics such as document management principles, file organization, indexing techniques, and other related topics.

3. What are the benefits of having a Document Clerk Certification?

Having a Document Clerk Certification can help demonstrate one’s proficiency in document management tasks and can also be beneficial for job seekers when applying for positions in this field. Additionally, it can provide employers with assurance that an individual has the required skill set to effectively perform their duties as a document clerk.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

The length of time it takes to become certified will vary depending on the certifying organization and type of exam taken but generally takes between 1-3 months to complete the process.

5. How much does it cost to become certified?

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which certifying organization you choose but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD per exam fee plus any additional fees associated with registration or study materials.