Top 11 Mail Processing Clerk Certifications

Certifications are important for a mail processing clerk in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of competency and proficiency in the field. Employers want to know that potential hires have the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job, and certifications provide proof of those abilities. Certified mail processing clerks often have an advantage in the job market because employers can be confident that they have been trained in industry-standard practices and procedures. Certifications also show potential employers that the individual is committed to their profession and willing to invest time and effort into learning new skills.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Mail Processing Clerks and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Mail Processing Clerk Certifications?

Mail processing clerk certification is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the field of mail processing. This certification is offered by the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) and is designed to provide employers with assurance that those they hire have the necessary competencies and knowledge to perform their job duties effectively.

In order to achieve this certification, individuals must first pass a written exam covering topics such as USPS regulations, mail sorting techniques, mail handling procedures, and customer service practices. Additionally, candidates must also demonstrate their abilities through an on-site performance evaluation. Once certified, mail processing clerks will be able to demonstrate their commitment to high quality service in their workplace and may even be eligible for higher pay or promotion opportunities.

Having mail processing clerk certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when looking for jobs in the postal industry. It can also help them advance in their current role by providing employers with evidence of their expertise and dedication to the profession. Furthermore, it can open up new doors for career advancement within the industry as well as build confidence in current employees that they are adequately prepared for any challenge they may face while working in a postal facility.

Pro Tip: Be sure to research the requirements for mail processing clerk certification in your area before applying. Some states may require a certain amount of experience or training, and you may need to pass a certification exam. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes in the certification process that could affect your ability to become certified.

Related: What does a Mail Processing Clerk do?

Top 11 Mail Processing Clerk Certifications

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

1. Certified Mail Processing Clerk (CMPC)

A Certified Mail Processing Clerk (CMPC) is a professional who processes and delivers certified mail. Certified mail is a type of mail service offered by the United States Postal Service that provides proof of mailing, delivery, and signature upon receipt. The CMPC is responsible for ensuring that all certified mail is processed properly and delivered in a timely manner.

The amount of time it takes to receive certified mail depends on the destination and type of service chosen. Generally, it takes 3-5 business days for domestic delivery and 7-10 business days for international delivery.

To get certified mail, you must first fill out a PS Form 3800 (Certified Mail Label). This form can be obtained from any post office or online at USPS.com. You will need to provide the recipient’s address, your return address, and the weight of the package or envelope being sent. Once you have completed the form, take it to your local post office along with payment for the cost of service.

The cost of sending certified mail depends on several factors such as weight, distance traveled, and additional services requested (e.g., return receipt). Generally speaking, domestic certified mail starts at $3.45 per piece plus applicable postage fees. International rates start at $14.50 per piece plus applicable postage fees. Additional services such as return receipt may require an additional fee depending on the type selected (e.g., electronic return receipt).

If you are interested in becoming a Certified Mail Processing Clerk (CMPC), you must meet certain requirements set forth by USPS including passing an exam that tests knowledge related to postal operations and customer service principles as well as completing an approved training program administered by USPS or its authorized partners/vendors.

2. Certified Postal Automation Professional (CPAP)

Certified Postal Automation Professional (CPAP) is a certification program developed by the United States Postal Service. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the use of automated postal systems and technologies.

The CPAP program requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as mail sorting, tracking, delivery, and customer service. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as mail processing techniques, mail security procedures, postal regulations, and customer service best practices.

It typically takes about two months to complete the CPAP certification process. The first step is to register for the exam which can be done online through the USPS website or at a local post office. After registering for the exam, applicants should review study materials provided by the USPS before taking the test. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their official CPAP certificate within two weeks of passing.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on how you choose to take the exam. If you take it online, it will cost $200; if you take it in-person at a post office it will cost $250.

3. Certified Mail Center Manager (CMCM)

Certified Mail Center Manager (CMCM) is a service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It allows businesses and individuals to send certified mail with a tracking number, which can be used to track the progress of the mail item. The USPS provides CMCM as an online service that enables customers to manage their certified mail items from start to finish.

It typically takes up to three business days for the USPS to process and deliver a certified mail item. Customers can track their certified mail items online using the tracking number provided by the USPS. The cost of sending a certified mail item depends on its weight and size, as well as any additional services requested, such as delivery confirmation or return receipt requested.

To get CMCM, customers must register with the USPS online portal and create an account. Once registered, customers can log in and submit their request for CMCM services. After submitting their request, they will receive an email with instructions on how to complete the process. Customers must then provide payment information before they are able to use CMCM services.

4. Certified Mail Management Professional (CMMP)

Certified Mail Management Professional (CMMP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Certified Mail Managers (NACMM). The program is designed to provide mail professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their organization’s mail operations. It provides an opportunity for mail professionals to demonstrate their expertise in managing mail operations, processes, and services.

The CMMP certification program consists of four modules that cover topics such as cost analysis, customer service, postal regulations, and security. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers all four modules. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is administered online or at a testing center.

The cost of the CMMP certification program varies depending on the number of modules taken. Generally, it costs around $400-$500 for all four modules. In addition, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending training sessions.

Once certified, CMMPs are eligible for continuing education credits through NACMM and can also access exclusive resources such as webinars and discounts on products related to mail management. Certified Mail Management Professionals are also eligible for recognition within their organization or industry as well as increased job opportunities in the field of mail management.

5. USPS National Association of Letter Carriers Certification Program

The USPS National Association of Letter Carriers Certification Program (NALC-CP) is a professional certification program for letter carriers employed by the United States Postal Service. The program was created to recognize letter carriers who demonstrate excellence in their job performance and knowledge of postal policies and procedures.

The NALC-CP certification process takes approximately 6 months from start to finish, depending on the individual's progress. To become certified, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as mail delivery, customer service, safety practices, and postal regulations. After passing the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their proficiency in the areas covered by the exam. The portfolio should include examples of work completed while on the job as well as any additional training or education received related to postal operations.

Once all requirements have been met and approved by the NALC-CP Board of Directors, applicants will receive their official certification and be recognized as a Certified Letter Carrier. There is no cost associated with becoming certified through this program; however, applicants may need to pay for any necessary training or materials required to complete their portfolio submission.

6. Mail Equipment Operator Certification (MEOC)

Mail Equipment Operator Certification (MEOC) is a certification program designed to ensure that mail processing personnel have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate mail processing equipment. It is offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS).

To become certified, individuals must complete an approved training course that covers topics such as safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of USPS mail processing equipment. The training course typically takes two days to complete and consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Upon successful completion of the course, participants are issued a MEOC certificate.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register for the MEOC training course through the USPS website or by calling their local post office. The cost of the course varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$500.

Once registered for the course, participants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online training modules. After completing all required modules and passing a final exam, participants will be issued their MEOC certificate.

Overall, it typically takes about two days to complete all requirements for MEOC certification.

7. 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 provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful bulk mailers. The program consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and an examination.

The CBMS program is open to anyone who wants to learn more about bulk mailing procedures, including businesses, organizations, and individuals. The program typically takes two days to complete and requires a minimum of eight hours of instruction. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive a certificate from the USPS acknowledging their completion of the program.

To enroll in the CBMS program, applicants must complete an online application form and pay a fee of $200. Once accepted into the program, participants will receive materials that detail the topics covered in each class session as well as instructions on how to prepare for the exam.

Upon successful completion of all course requirements and passing the examination with a score of 80% or higher, participants will receive their Certified Bulk Mail Specialist Certificate from the USPS. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or retaking the exam at any time during that period.

8. Certified Mail Security Professional (CMSP)

Certified Mail Security Professional (CMSP) is a certification program designed to help individuals increase their knowledge and skills in the area of mail security. The CMSP certification is offered by the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU). It is intended for individuals who work in the mailroom, post office, or other areas related to mail security.

To become certified as a CMSP, an individual must complete a series of courses and tests that cover topics such as mail handling procedures, security protocols, and postal regulations. The courses are available online and can be completed at your own pace. Upon completion of the courses and tests, you must submit an application to NPMHU for certification. Once approved, you will receive your CMSP certificate.

The cost of the CMSP certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and tests completed. Generally speaking, it costs around $250-$300 USD to become certified as a CMSP.

Once certified as a CMSP, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in mail security procedures. This can be beneficial when applying for jobs or promotions within the postal service or other organizations that handle large amounts of mail. Additionally, having this certification may make you eligible for discounts on certain insurance policies or other benefits from employers or vendors who recognize this credential.

9. Certified International Mail Manager (CIMM)

Certified International Mail Manager (CIMM) is a certification program designed to give individuals the knowledge and skills necessary to manage international mail operations. It is offered by the Universal Postal Union (UPU), which is an international organization that provides postal services and regulations for its member countries.

The CIMM program consists of four modules: International Mail Operations, International Mail Regulations, International Customs Regulations, and International Postage Rates. Each module has an associated exam that must be passed in order to receive certification. The exams are administered online or at UPU offices around the world.

The time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can complete the courses and pass the exams. Generally, it takes about two months from start to finish.

To get certified, you must first register with the UPU and pay a registration fee of $50 USD. Then, you will need to purchase study materials for each module from the UPU’s website. After completing all four modules and passing all four exams, you will receive your CIMM certificate via email within two weeks of passing your last exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you live and which study materials you choose to purchase. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD for all four modules plus the registration fee ($250 USD total).

10. Certified Postal Supervisor (CPS)

Certified Postal Supervisor (CPS) is a professional certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The CPS certification program is designed to develop and recognize supervisors who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage postal operations. It is an intensive training program that provides supervisors with the tools they need to effectively lead their teams.

The Certified Postal Supervisor program requires applicants to complete a series of online courses, pass an exam, and demonstrate proficiency in USPS-specific topics such as customer service, safety, financial management, labor relations, and human resources. The program takes approximately six months to complete.

To become certified as a CPS, applicants must first register for the program through the USPS website. Applicants will then be required to pay a fee of $250 in order to gain access to the online courses. Once all coursework has been completed, applicants must pass an exam consisting of 100 multiple choice questions in order to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CPS includes the $250 registration fee plus any additional fees associated with taking and passing the exam.

11. Certified Postal Inspector (CPI).

Certified Postal Inspector (CPI) is a certification program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is designed to provide specialized training and education in the field of postal inspection. The program is aimed at providing individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective postal inspector.

The CPI program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on field training component. The online course covers topics such as mail fraud, mail theft, money laundering, identity theft, counterfeiting, and more. The field training component includes practical exercises that allow participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The CPI certification process typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete the online course, pass a written examination, and successfully complete the field training component. Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants are awarded a Certified Postal Inspector certificate from USPS.

The cost for the CPI program varies depending on the applicant’s location and other factors such as whether or not they are already employed by USPS. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 to become certified as a CPI.

In order to become a Certified Postal Inspector (CPI), you must first meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by USPS. These requirements include being 18 years of age or older; having a valid driver’s license; passing a background check; passing both written and physical examinations; and completing all required training courses within six months of starting the program.

Do You Really Need a Mail Processing Clerk Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are seeking and the requirements for that particular job. Generally, a Mail Processing Clerk Certificate is not required for most entry-level positions, but it may be recommended or even required for more advanced roles.

For example, if you are looking for a job in an office setting that requires handling mail and packages, then having a Mail Processing Clerk Certificate may be beneficial. This certificate provides proof that you have been trained in the necessary skills to handle mail efficiently and safely. It also shows employers that you have taken the time to learn about the industry and have invested in yourself.

On the other hand, if you are applying for a position in an area that is more specialized, such as medical coding or data entry, then a Mail Processing Clerk Certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, employers often require specific qualifications or certifications related to their industry.

In conclusion, it is important to consider your individual situation when deciding whether or not to obtain a Mail Processing Clerk Certificate. If you feel like it can help your chances of getting hired or advancing your career then it is worth considering obtaining one. However, if you find that the certificate is not necessary for your desired position then it may not be worth investing your time and money into obtaining one.

Related: Mail Processing Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About Mail Processing Clerk Certifications

Q1. What certifications are available for mail processing clerks?

A1. The National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) offers two certifications for mail processing clerks: the Certified Clerk of the Works (CCW) and the Certified Mail Processing Clerk (CMPC).

Q2. How do I become certified as a mail processing clerk?

A2. To become certified as a mail processing clerk, you must first complete an approved training program offered by NPMHU. Once you have completed this training, you must pass an exam to receive your certification.

Q3. Is certification required to be a mail processing clerk?

A3. Certification is not required to be a mail processing clerk; however, it can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field, making you more competitive in the job market.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified?

A4. It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the training and obtain certification from NPMHU as a mail processing clerk.

Q5. How much does it cost to become certified?

A5. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on specific factors such as location and type of certification desired; however, the average cost is approximately $300-$500 USD for both CCW and CMPC certifications combined.