Top 10 Retail Cashier Certifications

Certifications for retail cashiers can be important in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skill. They also show that the person is dedicated to their profession and willing to invest in their career. Employers may view certified retail cashiers as more reliable, trustworthy, and knowledgeable than non-certified individuals. Certifications can also make an individual more attractive to potential employers, as they provide evidence that the individual has taken the time to learn about their field and has achieved a certain level of proficiency.

This article reviews the top certifications for Retail Cashiers, explaining how they can help to advance a retail cashier's career.

What are Retail Cashier Certifications?

Retail cashier certification is a professional certification for individuals who work in the retail industry, typically at the point of sale. It is designed to help individuals gain a better understanding of customer service, sales techniques, and various other aspects of working as a cashier. With this certification, retail cashiers can demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to providing excellent customer service. This can be beneficial in helping them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

The certification also provides employers with an assurance that their employees are knowledgeable about the products they are selling and the services they are providing. This helps create a more positive environment for customers, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, having certified cashiers on staff can increase operational efficiency due to less mistakes being made during transactions. Overall, retail cashier certification helps both employers and employees benefit from improved customer relations and operational efficiency.

Pro Tip: If you plan to become a retail cashier, be sure to take advantage of any certification opportunities available. Many employers require or prefer cashiers with certification in order to demonstrate proficiency and knowledge in handling money transactions and customer service. Certification can help you stand out from the competition and give you an edge when applying for jobs.

Related: What does a Retail Cashier do?

Top 10 Retail Cashier Certifications

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

1. Certified Retail Cashier (CRC)

Certified Retail Cashier (CRC) is a certification program designed to recognize retail cashiers who have demonstrated an understanding of customer service, store operations, and cash handling. The certification is awarded by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The CRC program consists of two parts: a written exam and an online course. The written exam tests your knowledge of retail operations, customer service, and cash handling. The online course covers topics such as store policies and procedures, customer service skills, and fraud prevention.

The cost for the CRC program varies depending on the provider you choose to take the course from. Generally, it costs around $100-$150 for the entire program.

It typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete the CRC program depending on how quickly you are able to complete the written exam and online course. Once you have completed both components of the program, you will receive your official Certified Retail Cashier certificate in the mail.

2. Certified Professional Cashier (CPC)

Certified Professional Cashier (CPC) is a certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to provide cashiers with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job duties effectively and efficiently. The program consists of two levels: Basic and Advanced.

The Basic level covers topics such as customer service, cash handling, point-of-sale systems, inventory control, and security. To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of these topics. The exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $95.

The Advanced level covers more complex topics such as loss prevention, fraud detection, sales techniques, customer relations management, and financial reporting. To obtain this certification, applicants must first pass the Basic level exam and then complete an additional online course that covers advanced topics in greater detail. This course takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $125.

Overall, it typically takes about 6 hours of study time for someone to become a Certified Professional Cashier (CPC). The cost for both exams is $220.

3. Certified Point of Sale Professional (CPOP)

Certified Point of Sale Professional (CPOP) is a professional certification program that verifies a person’s knowledge and skills in the use of point-of-sale systems. It is designed to help those who work in retail, hospitality, and other service industries become more knowledgeable about the technology they use every day. The CPOP certification is offered through the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The CPOP program takes approximately four weeks to complete. During this time, participants will be expected to complete an online course and pass a final exam. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive their certification.

To get certified as a CPOP, individuals must first register for the program with the NRF. Once registered, they must purchase access to the online course material and take the final exam. The cost of registration and access to the course material is $299 USD.

Once all requirements are met and payment has been made, individuals will be given their CPOP certification number which should be used when applying for jobs or requesting discounts from vendors associated with NRF member companies.

4. National Retail Federation Cashier Certification (NRFCC)

The National Retail Federation Cashier Certification (NRFCC) is a program designed to provide cashiers with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their role. The certification consists of four modules that cover topics such as customer service, cash handling, and store operations. It typically takes about eight hours to complete the coursework and pass the exam.

To get certified, you must first register on the NRFCC website. Once registered, you can select which modules you would like to take. After completing each module, you will need to take an online exam for that module. Once all four exams have been completed, you will receive your NRFCC certificate in the mail within two weeks.

The cost of the certification varies depending on how many modules you choose to take and whether or not you are a member of the National Retail Federation. Generally speaking, it costs around $100-$200 for non-members and $50-$100 for members.

5. Certified Retail Associate (CRA)

Certified Retail Associate (CRA) is a certification program designed to help retail professionals develop their knowledge and skills in the retail industry. The program focuses on topics such as customer service, sales techniques, merchandising, store operations, and more.

The CRA program takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. It consists of an online course which includes video lectures, quizzes, and a final exam. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider; however, it typically costs between $50-$100.

To get certified as a CRA, you must first register for the program by providing your contact information and payment details. Once registered, you will be able to access the course material and take the final exam when ready. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your certificate of completion which can then be used to show employers that you have successfully completed the Certified Retail Associate Program.

6. Certified Cash Management Specialist (CCMS)

Certified Cash Management Specialist (CCMS) is a professional designation for individuals who specialize in cash management. It is offered by the Institute of Financial Operations, an international professional association dedicated to advancing the practice and profession of financial operations.

The CCMS credential requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of cash management principles, practices, and procedures. To qualify for the certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in a related field or a bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as cash flow analysis, treasury management, risk management, and investment strategies.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CCMS program. The program consists of self-study materials and online courses that cover topics such as cash flow analysis, treasury management, risk management, and investment strategies. After completing the program requirements, applicants must pass an exam to earn the certification.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the type of membership you choose with the Institute of Financial Operations. A basic membership costs $99 per year while a premium membership costs $249 per year. Both memberships include access to study materials and discounts on certification exams.

7. Advanced Retail Cashier Certification (ARCC)

Advanced Retail Cashier Certification (ARCC) is a certification program designed to help retail cashiers become more knowledgeable and proficient in their job. This certification is offered through the National Retail Federation and is recognized by many employers.

The ARCC program consists of an online course with five modules that cover topics such as customer service, store operations, and cash handling. The course also includes practice tests to help prepare for the certification exam. The entire program can be completed in about 10 hours.

To get the ARCC certification, you must first complete the online course and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate via email within two weeks.

The cost of the ARCC certification is $99 USD. This fee covers access to the online course and materials, as well as the cost of taking the final exam.

8. Certified Payment Card Industry Professional (CPCIP)

Certified Payment Card Industry Professional (CPCIP) is a certification program offered by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC). The program is designed to help individuals demonstrate their understanding of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). It is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual's knowledge and experience in implementing and managing PCI DSS-compliant payment card systems.

To obtain the CPCIP certification, applicants must complete a three-hour online exam that consists of multiple choice questions. The exam covers topics such as security policies, procedures, and technologies; risk management; and compliance with PCI DSS requirements. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam to pass.

The cost of the CPCIP certification exam is $125 USD. It typically takes two weeks for applicants to receive their results after taking the exam.

9. National Association of Professional Cashiers Certification Program (NAPCP)

The National Association of Professional Cashiers Certification Program (NAPCP) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides cashiers with the knowledge and skills to become successful in their chosen profession. The program consists of a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of cashiering, including customer service, money handling, and store operations. It also includes a certification exam that must be passed in order to receive the NAPCP certification.

The NAPCP program typically takes around two months to complete, depending on the student’s prior experience and how quickly they can absorb the material. To get started, students must first register for the program by submitting an application form and paying any applicable fees. After registration is complete, students will have access to the online course materials which include videos, quizzes, and other resources to help them understand and apply what they learn.

Once the coursework has been completed, students can take the NAPCP certification exam. This exam is administered by a third-party testing company and consists of multiple-choice questions covering various topics related to cashiering. In order to pass this exam and receive their certification, students must score at least 70% or higher on all sections of the test.

The cost for taking the NAPCP certification exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the program such as application fees or membership dues if applicable.

10. International Council of Shopping Centers Cashier Certification Program (ICSC-CPP).

The International Council of Shopping Centers Cashier Certification Program (ICSC-CPP) is a certification program designed to provide cashiers with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their roles. The program is designed to help cashiers better understand customer service, sales techniques, and other essential skills needed for success in retail.

The ICSC-CPP consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course takes approximately six hours to complete and covers topics such as customer service, sales techniques, product knowledge, and more. After completing the online course, participants must pass a proctored exam at an approved testing center.

To get certified through the ICSC-CPP, applicants must first register for the program on the ICSC website. Applicants will then receive instructions on how to access the online course material and schedule a proctored exam at an approved testing center. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certification within two weeks of passing the exam.

The cost of the ICSC-CPP varies depending on where you take the exam but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD.

Do You Really Need a Retail Cashier Certificate?

Whether or not you need a retail cashier certificate depends on the job you are applying for. In some cases, employers will require applicants to have a certificate in order to be considered for the position. This is usually because they want to ensure that their employees have the necessary skills and knowledge required to do the job properly.

In other cases, having a retail cashier certificate may give you an advantage when competing against other applicants. A certificate can show employers that you are serious about your career and are willing to invest time and money into learning the skills needed for success. It also demonstrates that you understand the importance of customer service, safety protocols, and other essential skills related to working in a retail environment.

Overall, whether or not you need a retail cashier certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If the employer requires it or if it will give you an edge over other candidates then it may be worth investing in one. However, if getting certified is not necessary for success in your chosen field then it may not be worth your time or money. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if obtaining a retail cashier certificate is right for you.

Related: Retail Cashier Resume Examples

FAQs About Retail Cashier Certifications

1. What is a retail cashier certification?

Answer: A retail cashier certification is a credential that certifies an individual has the knowledge and skills to effectively perform the duties of a retail cashier, such as handling money, operating a cash register, and providing customer service.

2. How do I obtain a retail cashier certification?

Answer: To obtain a retail cashier certification, you must complete an approved training program or course that meets the requirements set by your state or employer. You may also be required to pass an examination demonstrating your knowledge and skills.

3. Is there an age requirement for obtaining a retail cashier certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that applicants for a retail cashier certification be at least 18 years old. It is important to check with your state’s laws before applying for any certifications.

4. Do I need to renew my retail cashier certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that you renew your retail cashier certification every year or two years depending on the regulations in your state or employer's policies.

5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining a retail cashier certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be some costs associated with obtaining a retail cashier certification such as tuition fees for training programs or courses and exam fees if required by the state or employer you are applying through.