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Top 11 Teller Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 18 min read

Certifications are important for a teller in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual is competent and knowledgeable in their field. They provide evidence of an individual's commitment to their profession, and can give employers confidence that they have the right skills and abilities to do a good job. Certifications also show potential employers that the individual has taken the initiative to advance their knowledge and stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulations. Additionally, certifications offer individuals a competitive edge over other applicants who may not have them, as well as access to higher salaries and opportunities for professional development.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Tellers and explain how they can help to advance a teller's career.

What are Teller Certifications?

Teller certification is a program offered by financial institutions that provides training, assessment and certification of tellers. It is designed to ensure that tellers have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide excellent customer service in a banking environment. This certification can help banks and credit unions meet compliance requirements, reduce errors, improve efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction. It also helps tellers develop their skills and become more confident in their work. With this certification, tellers can learn about the different types of transactions they may be asked to complete, as well as understand how to properly handle money and other duties associated with their job. Additionally, it can give them an edge when applying for jobs or promotions within the banking industry.

Pro Tip: Make sure to always keep your teller certification up to date. Most banking organizations require that tellers have their certification renewed every few years, so make sure you plan ahead and stay ahead of the expiration date.

Related: What does a Teller do?

Top 11 Teller Certifications

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

1. Certified Bank Teller (CBT)

Certified Bank Teller (CBT) is a professional certification program designed to provide bank tellers with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their job duties in a safe and efficient manner. The program is offered by the American Institute of Banking (AIB) and is recognized by the banking industry as a mark of excellence for bank tellers.

The CBT program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site examination. The online course covers topics such as customer service, money handling, compliance regulations, security procedures, fraud prevention, and more. It typically takes about 10 hours to complete the online course.

The on-site exam is administered by AIB at one of its testing centers located throughout the United States. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that test your knowledge of banking operations and customer service practices. To pass the exam, you must score at least 80%.

The cost to take the Certified Bank Teller exam varies depending on where you take it and whether or not you are a member of AIB. For non-members, the cost is usually around $150-$200; for members, it typically costs around $100-$150.

Once you have successfully passed both parts of the CBT program, you will receive a certificate from AIB which will serve as proof that you have met all requirements for becoming a certified bank teller. This certificate can be used to demonstrate your qualifications when applying for jobs in banking or related fields.

2. Certified Financial Services Professional (CFSP)

Certified Financial Services Professional (CFSP) is a professional designation offered by the Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC). It is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the financial services industry.

The CFSP designation requires successful completion of four courses: Fundamentals of Investment Funds, Investment Fund Regulation, Investment Strategies and Portfolio Management, and Advanced Financial Planning. The courses must be taken at an IFIC-accredited institution or through an IFIC-approved online provider.

It typically takes between six months and two years to complete the CFSP program depending on the individual's study habits and availability.

To obtain the CFSP designation, an individual must pass all four courses with a minimum grade of 70%. After completing all four courses, individuals must also pass a comprehensive exam administered by IFIC.

The cost for obtaining the CFSP designation varies depending on which institution or online provider you use to take the courses. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $5,000 CAD for the entire program.

3. Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)

The Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, experience and skills of treasury professionals. The CTP designation is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in the field of treasury management.

To become a CTP, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in treasury or related fields, such as finance, accounting or banking. They must also pass an exam that tests their understanding of corporate finance, cash management and risk management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CTP exam, applicants must submit an application form along with an application fee and proof of their professional experience. The application fee varies depending on whether the applicant is a member or non-member of AFP. Members pay $395 while non-members pay $495. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam online through Pearson VUE testing centers located around the world.

The CTP designation is valid for three years from the date it was earned, after which time it must be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

4. Certified Payment Professional (CPP)

Certified Payment Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Payment Professionals (NAPCP). The CPP designation is designed to recognize and validate payment professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in the payments industry.

The CPP program consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person exam. The online assessment tests a candidate's knowledge of payment processing, fraud prevention, risk management, compliance, and other related topics. It takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete the online assessment.

The in-person exam consists of multiple choice questions that test a candidate's understanding of the payments industry. It takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete the exam.

To become certified as a CPP, candidates must successfully pass both the online assessment and the in-person exam. Candidates must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years' experience working in the payments industry or completing at least 30 hours of approved NAPCP training courses within 12 months prior to taking the exams.

The cost for obtaining a CPP certification varies depending on whether you are a NAPCP member or non-member. For members, it costs $350 for both parts of the certification process; for non-members, it costs $500 for both parts.

5. Accredited ACH Professional (AAP)

Accredited ACH Professional (AAP) is a certification program offered by the National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA) to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments. The AAP credential is designed for those who work with ACH payments on a daily basis, such as payment processors, financial institution personnel, and corporate treasury professionals.

The AAP certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and an in-person workshop. The online exam covers topics such as ACH rules and regulations, risk management, fraud prevention, and operational procedures. The in-person workshop provides hands-on experience with ACH operations and best practices.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to complete the AAP certification program depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework and exams.

In order to become an AAP, you must first submit an application to NACHA along with the appropriate fees. Once your application is approved, you will be provided access to the online exam which must be completed within 90 days of approval. Upon successful completion of the online exam, you will then be eligible to attend an in-person workshop which must also be completed within 90 days of approval.

The cost for the AAP certification program varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NACHA. For non-members, the cost is $1125 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it is $750 USD plus applicable taxes.

6. International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI)

The International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI) is a non-profit organization that promotes the professional development of financial crime investigators worldwide. Founded in 1992, IAFCI provides members with access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and other support services related to the investigation and prevention of financial crimes.

To become a member of IAFCI, applicants must have at least three years of experience in financial crime investigations or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also submit a membership application form along with a resume outlining their qualifications and experience. Once accepted into the association, members are required to pay annual dues which range from $50-$200 depending on their membership level.

In addition to becoming a member, individuals can also obtain certifications through IAFCI such as the Certified Financial Crime Investigator (CFCI) credential or the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) designation. To obtain either certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by IAFCI and meet certain educational requirements. The cost for these certifications ranges from $300-$500 depending on the type of certification being sought.

Overall, IAFCI provides valuable resources for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in financial crime investigations or anti-money laundering compliance. Membership fees are relatively low and obtaining certifications can provide additional credentials that may be beneficial when seeking employment or promotions within this field.

7. National Check Professionals Association (NCPA)

The National Check Professionals Association (NCPA) is a professional association that provides education and certification for check professionals. The NCPA was established in 1999 to provide check professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to perform their job duties more effectively.

It takes approximately three months to complete the NCPA certification process. To become certified, applicants must first complete an online application, pass a background check, and take a written exam. Once these steps are completed, applicants will be issued a certification card that is valid for two years.

The cost of the NCPA certification varies depending on the type of certification desired. For example, the cost of the Level 1 Certification is $175 while the cost of Level 2 Certification is $275. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written exam or completing the background check.

Overall, becoming certified by the NCPA can help you gain recognition as a professional in your field and demonstrate your commitment to excellence in check processing.

8. American Institute of Banking (AIB)

The American Institute of Banking (AIB) is a professional organization that provides educational and networking opportunities to banking professionals. It was founded in 1919 and is headquartered in New York City. The AIB offers a variety of programs, including certification programs, continuing education courses, and online banking courses.

Certification programs are available for those who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the banking industry. There are two levels of certification: Certified Banker (CB) and Certified Professional Banker (CPB). Both certifications require passing an exam as well as meeting certain experience requirements. The CB program takes approximately six months to complete, while the CPB program can take up to one year.

To get certified by the AIB, you must first meet the eligibility requirements for either the CB or CPB program. Once eligible, you must then register for the exam and pay an application fee. The fee varies depending on which certification program you are applying for; it is $225 for the CB program and $325 for the CPB program. After registering, you will need to study for and pass the exam before being certified by the AIB.

In addition to certification programs, the AIB also offers continuing education courses that help bank professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulations. These courses can be taken online or in person at various locations throughout the United States. The cost of these courses varies depending on length and content but typically range from $50-$200 per course.

Overall, becoming certified by or taking courses through the American Institute of Banking can be beneficial for those looking to advance their careers in banking or increase their knowledge of banking practices and regulations.

9. Certified Credit Union Teller (CCUT)

Certified Credit Union Teller (CCUT) is a certification program designed to provide credit union tellers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively serve members and promote the credit union’s products and services. The CCUT program is administered by CUNA, the Credit Union National Association.

The CCUT program consists of two parts: an online course and a proctored exam. The online course covers topics such as member service, regulations, product knowledge, sales techniques, security procedures, and more. It typically takes about 25 hours to complete the online course.

Once you have completed the online course, you must pass a proctored exam in order to become certified. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 2 hours or less.

The cost for the CCUT program varies depending on whether you are a CUNA member or non-member. For CUNA members, it costs $175 for the online course plus $95 for the proctored exam. For non-members, it costs $325 for both the online course and proctored exam.

10. National Notary Association (NNA)

The National Notary Association (NNA) is a non-profit professional organization that provides education, training, and resources to notaries public across the United States. The NNA's mission is to protect the public through education, standards of practice, legislative advocacy, and professional services for notaries.

It typically takes up to 8 weeks to become an NNA certified Notary Public. To become an NNA certified Notary Public you must first meet your state’s requirements for becoming a notary public. Once you have met those requirements, you can apply for NNA certification online or by mail. When applying online you will need to provide proof of your identity, payment information and other required documents such as your state’s notary application form.

The cost of becoming an NNA certified Notary Public varies depending on the type of package chosen. The most popular package is the Standard Package which costs $119 plus applicable taxes and fees. This package includes a comprehensive four-hour online course on notarial best practices, access to the NNA’s library of educational materials, a hard copy of the Notary Public Code of Professional Responsibility book and a one-year membership in the NNA with access to all its benefits.

Once you have completed all necessary steps and paid all applicable fees, you will receive your official certificate from the National Notary Association confirming that you are now an officially recognized and certified notary public in your state.

11. American Bankers Association Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRM).

The American Bankers Association Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRM) is a professional certification issued by the ABA that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in managing regulatory compliance within the banking industry. The CRM designation is an important credential for those seeking to advance their careers in compliance management, as it demonstrates that they have achieved a high level of expertise in this field.

In order to obtain the CRM designation, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as risk management, consumer protection laws, anti-money laundering regulations, and other relevant topics. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements and have at least two years of professional experience in compliance management or related fields.

The cost of obtaining the CRM designation is $495 for ABA members and $695 for non-members. This fee includes the cost of the exam, study materials, and application processing fees. Additionally, applicants must pay a separate fee for any additional study materials they may need to prepare for the exam. It typically takes about four weeks from the time an applicant submits their application until they are notified of their results.

Do You Really Need a Teller Certificate?

When it comes to banking, a teller certificate is an important document that demonstrates the knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of a teller. This certificate is usually issued by a bank or other financial institution after successful completion of a training program. The certificate is also sometimes required for employment in some locations.

Whether or not you need to obtain a teller certificate depends on your situation. If you are applying for a job as a teller, then having this certification will be very beneficial. Many employers prefer applicants who have completed a formal training program and possess the necessary knowledge and skills that the role requires. Furthermore, this certification may be required by law in some areas, so it could be mandatory for you to obtain it before you can even apply for certain positions.

However, if you are already employed as a teller or do not plan on working in such an occupation then obtaining this certification may not be necessary. It is important to remember that even though having this certification can make you more attractive to employers and help ensure legal compliance, it is not always necessary in order to work as a teller. Employers may still consider your experience and qualifications when making hiring decisions even if you do not possess this certificate.

In conclusion, whether or not you need to obtain a teller certificate depends largely on your individual situation and goals. If you are interested in pursuing work as a teller then possessing this certification can be beneficial, but if you already have experience in the field or do not plan on working as one then it may not be necessary for you to acquire one.

Related: Teller Resume Examples

FAQs About Teller Certifications

1. What is a teller certification?

A teller certification is a credential that certifies an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a bank teller. It demonstrates that the individual has completed specific training related to customer service, banking regulations, and cash handling procedures.

2. Is a teller certification required to work as a bank teller?

Yes. Most employers require that individuals have a valid teller certification in order to be considered for employment as a bank teller.

3. How do I obtain a teller certification?

Most banks offer their own internal training programs or courses that can help you obtain your teller certification. Additionally, there are various online courses and programs available from other providers that can provide you with the necessary credentials.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a bank teller?

The time frame for obtaining a bank teller certification varies depending on the program or course that you choose to pursue, but most programs can be completed within 3-6 months of dedicated study and practice.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a bank teller certification?

The cost of obtaining a bank teller certification varies by provider, but most programs range from $100-$500 USD depending on the type and length of coursework involved.

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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