Top 11 Mail Clerk Certifications

Certifications for a mail clerk are important in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills needed to perform the job effectively. Certification programs provide mail clerks with specialized training in areas such as USPS regulations, letter sorting, and mail processing. This training can help mail clerks stay up-to-date on current regulations and procedures, which can make them more attractive to employers who need knowledgeable and reliable workers. Furthermore, certifications can open up opportunities for career advancement or higher salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain how certain certifications can help Mail Clerks advance their careers.

What are Mail Clerk Certifications?

Mail clerk certification is a professional designation for individuals who are knowledgeable about mailroom and document processing operations. It demonstrates the holder’s proficiency in the field, as well as their commitment to continuing education. Certification can be beneficial in a variety of ways.

First, it serves as a signal of competence and trustworthiness to potential employers. Employers know that certified mail clerks have been trained in the best practices of the industry, and they can rely on them to handle their mailroom operations efficiently and accurately.

Second, certification gives mail clerks an edge over those without it when applying for jobs or promotions. In a competitive job market, having the right credentials can make all the difference in getting hired or promoted.

Finally, certification helps keep mail clerks up-to-date with new technologies and best practices in their field. By attending training sessions and seminars offered through certification programs, they can stay informed about developments in the industry and improve their skillset. This allows them to stay one step ahead of the competition when it comes to job opportunities or career advancement.

Pro Tip: When obtaining mail clerk certification, pay close attention to the requirements for each state as they may vary. Make sure to research the specific regulations and rules in the area you are looking to obtain certification in order to ensure that you meet all necessary qualifications.

Related: What does a Mail Clerk do?

Top 11 Mail Clerk Certifications

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

1. Certified Mail Clerk (CMC)

Certified Mail Clerk (CMC) is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It allows customers to send mail that requires proof of delivery. The sender can request a return receipt, which provides evidence that the mail was delivered.

When sending Certified Mail, the USPS will provide a tracking number and barcode to track the package and ensure delivery. The recipient must sign for the package upon delivery, providing proof of delivery. Delivery usually takes between 1-3 business days depending on where it is being sent.

To get Certified Mail, customers can purchase postage online or at their local post office. Customers will then need to fill out a green card with the recipient's address and attach it to the envelope or package they are sending. They will also need to pay an additional fee for Certified Mail service, which ranges from $3.50-$5.75 depending on weight and size of the item being sent.

2. Certified Professional Mail Clerk (CPMC)

Certified Professional Mail Clerk (CPMC) is a certification program offered by the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in mail handling and processing. The CPMC program provides an opportunity for mail clerks to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as sorting, distribution, customer service, and safety.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as postal regulations, mail preparation, delivery services, security procedures, and customer service. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also provide proof of at least one year of experience working as a mail clerk or similar position.

The cost for taking the CPMC exam is $50. After passing the exam, applicants will receive a certificate from NPMHU verifying their status as a Certified Professional Mail Clerk. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by passing another exam or providing proof of continuing education credits related to mail handling.

3. Certified Postal Clerk (CPC)

Certified Postal Clerk (CPC) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the areas of customer service, mail processing, and postal operations. The CPC certification is valid for four years.

To become certified as a CPC, applicants must pass an exam administered by the USPS. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as postal regulations, customer service techniques, mail processing operations, and postal finance. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of USPS products and services.

The cost of taking the CPC exam varies depending on location; however, it typically ranges from $50 to $100. Applicants may be eligible for reduced fees if they are members of certain organizations or groups.

The exam usually takes about two hours to complete; however, some locations may require additional time for testing. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate within 8 weeks of submitting their application.

4. Certified Mail Manager (CMM)

Certified Mail Manager (CMM) is a secure, online service that allows businesses to manage their certified mail operations. CMM simplifies the process of sending and tracking certified mail by providing an easy-to-use web interface. With CMM, businesses can quickly create and print USPS Certified Mail labels, track packages in real time, and access detailed delivery information.

The process of getting Certified Mail Manager typically takes 1-2 business days. To get CMM, you need to sign up for an account on the USPS website and provide your company’s information. Once you have created an account, you can purchase CMM from the USPS store or through a third-party vendor.

The cost of Certified Mail Manager varies depending on the number of users and features needed. The basic package starts at $4 per month per user with additional fees for extra features such as automated label creation and tracking.

5. Certified Mailroom Supervisor (CMS)

Certified Mailroom Supervisor (CMS) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Mailroom Supervisors (NAMS). The program is designed to provide mailroom supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their mailrooms. It covers topics such as customer service, mail handling, and mail room management.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To receive the CMS certification, applicants must first pass an online exam. This exam covers topics such as customer service, mail handling, and mail room management. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit an application for review by NAMS. Upon successful completion of the application process, applicants will be issued a certificate of completion from NAMS that verifies their CMS certification status.

The cost of obtaining CMS certification varies depending on the applicant's location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1,000 to become certified in this field.

6. Certified Postal Operations Manager (CPOM)

Certified Postal Operations Manager (CPOM) is a professional certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The CPOM certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in postal operations, including mail processing, customer service, financial management, and other related areas.

The CPOM certification requires successful completion of an examination that tests knowledge of USPS policies, procedures, and regulations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as mail processing, customer service, financial management, and postal regulations. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam.

To be eligible for the CPOM certification program, applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a USPS position or equivalent experience in a related field. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience along with their application form.

The cost of the CPOM certification program varies depending on the type of exam taken and whether an applicant chooses to take the paper or computer-based version. The paper-based exam costs $140 while the computer-based version costs $160.

7. Certified Postal Service Technician (CPST)

Certified Postal Service Technician (CPST) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the operation, maintenance, and repair of USPS equipment. This certification is intended for technicians who work with or maintain USPS equipment and systems.

To become certified as a CPST, an individual must complete a training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. The classroom portion consists of three courses: Introduction to Postal Equipment, Maintenance Procedures, and Troubleshooting Techniques. The hands-on portion consists of two courses: Installation & Repair Procedures and Advanced Troubleshooting & Diagnostics. Upon successful completion of these courses, the individual must pass an exam administered by the USPS.

The cost for the training program varies depending on the location where it is taken; however, it typically costs around $2,000. The exam fee is also around $200.

Once certified as a CPST, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years through continuing education activities approved by the USPS.

8. Certified International Mail Clerk (CIMC)

Certified International Mail Clerk (CIMC) is a professional certification program designed to help postal clerks and other mail professionals better understand the complexities of international mail. The CIMC certification is offered by the National Postal Forum, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of postal service worldwide.

The CIMC certification requires completion of a comprehensive course that covers topics such as international mail regulations, customs procedures, and customer service. The course typically takes about two weeks to complete and includes both online and in-person instruction. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate from the National Postal Forum.

To get certified as a CIMC, you must first register for the course with the National Postal Forum. You can do this either online or by calling their office directly. The cost of the course varies depending on your location and whether you choose to take it online or in person; however, most courses range from $400-$600 USD.

Once you have completed the course and received your certificate, you will need to apply for a CIMC license through your local post office. This process usually takes several weeks depending on how quickly your application is processed by your local post office. Once approved, you will be issued an official CIMC license which allows you to work as an international mail clerk in any country where postal services are available.

Overall, obtaining Certified International Mail Clerk (CIMC) certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in postal services or become more knowledgeable about international mail regulations and procedures.

9. Certified Bulk Mail Specialist (CBMS)

Certified Bulk Mail Specialist (CBMS) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to help businesses and organizations understand the USPS’s rules and regulations for bulk mailings. The CBMS certification is valid for two years, and it provides individuals with the knowledge they need to efficiently process large mailings.

The CBMS certification process involves completing an online course that takes approximately four hours to complete. After completion of the course, applicants must pass a final exam in order to receive their CBMS certification. The cost of the course and exam is $125.00 USD. Once certified, applicants will have access to exclusive discounts on postage rates for their bulk mailings.

10. Certified Automated Postal Center Technician (CAPCT)

Certified Automated Postal Center Technician (CAPCT) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service that provides training and certification for individuals who wish to become certified in operating and maintaining automated postal centers. These centers are used to process mail, package shipments, and provide customer service. The certification program is designed to ensure that technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to operate these machines safely and efficiently.

The CAPCT certification program consists of an online course, followed by an on-site exam at a USPS facility. The online course covers topics such as safety procedures, machine operation, troubleshooting, customer service, and more. It typically takes about 6-8 weeks to complete the coursework and take the exam.

To get CAPCT certified, you must first register with the USPS website and pay a fee of $75. After completing the registration process, you will receive instructions on how to access the online course material. Once you have completed all of the required coursework and passed the exam, you will be awarded your CAPCT certificate.

The cost of getting CAPCT certified is $75 for registration plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a USPS facility.

11. Certified Electronic Postage System Technician (CEPST).

Certified Electronic Postage System Technician (CEPST) is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, operate, and troubleshoot electronic postage systems. It is offered by the National Postal Meter Association (NPMA).

The CEPST certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on exam. The online course covers topics such as system components, installation procedures, maintenance and troubleshooting techniques, and safety practices. The hands-on exam requires technicians to demonstrate their ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot electronic postage systems.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CEPST certification program. During this time, technicians must complete the online course and pass the hands-on exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to become certified.

To get started on the CEPST certification program, technicians must first register for the NPMA’s online course. Once registered, technicians will receive access to all of the materials needed for the program. After completing the online course material, technicians can then take the hands-on exam at an authorized testing site.

The cost of obtaining CEPST certification varies depending on whether you are taking it through an approved training provider or on your own. If you choose to take it through an approved training provider, it typically costs around $1,000-$2,000 USD for tuition and materials fees. If you choose to take it on your own without any outside help or guidance from a training provider or instructor, then you may be able to save some money by purchasing only the materials needed for the program at a discounted rate from an authorized reseller or distributor.

Do You Really Need a Mail Clerk Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a mail clerk certificate in order to work as a mail clerk. However, having such a certificate can be beneficial for anyone looking to pursue a career in the postal industry.

Having a mail clerk certification can show prospective employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a mail clerk. It will also demonstrate your commitment to professional development and provide evidence of your ability to learn new skills quickly and accurately. Additionally, having such a certification may open up more job opportunities in the postal service industry, as many employers prefer candidates with specialized certifications over those without them.

In addition to showing potential employers that you are knowledgeable and qualified for the job, having a mail clerk certificate can also give you an edge in salary negotiations. With such certification, you may be able to command higher wages than someone without one. Moreover, having this type of credential may help you stand out among other applicants when applying for higher-level positions within the postal service industry.

In conclusion, while having a mail clerk certificate is not mandatory for becoming a mail clerk, it can certainly be advantageous in terms of boosting both your employability and earning potential within the field. If you are serious about pursuing a career in this field, taking the time to obtain such certification could prove very beneficial for your future prospects.

Related: Mail Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About Mail Clerk Certifications

1. What is a mail clerk certification?

Answer: A mail clerk certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in handling mail, including sorting, processing, labeling, delivery, and filing of mail.

2. How do I get certified as a mail clerk?

Answer: To become certified as a mail clerk, you must complete a training program or course offered by a recognized institution or organization. Once you have completed the program successfully, you will receive your certification.

3. What are the benefits of being certified as a mail clerk?

Answer: Being certified as a mail clerk can help to demonstrate your commitment to your profession and provide employers with confidence in your abilities. It can also provide you with greater job security and opportunities for advancement within the industry.

4. What types of jobs can I get with my mail clerk certification?

Answer: With your mail clerk certification, you may be able to find employment in various industries such as postal services, shipping companies, airports and other organizations that handle large amounts of mail on a daily basis. You may also find employment in government offices or other organizations that require someone skilled in handling and processing large volumes of mail.

5. How long does it take to earn my mail clerk certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Mail Clerk varies depending on the program or institution offering the training course but generally ranges from 6-12 months for most programs.