Business & Office

How to become a Data Entry Clerk

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

0–3 months

Typical pay

$32k–$42k

Starting from

No experience

The steps

1. 1

   Build accuracy and speed

   Employers test both. Aim for 60+ WPM with near-perfect accuracy.

   1–2 months

2. 2

   Learn Excel properly

   The clerks who move up are the ones who automate their own work.

   Course that covers thisUltimate Microsoft Excel Bundle from Beginner to AdvancedUdemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   Get your first role

   Widely available, remote-friendly, and a common first office job.

   1–2 months

Course links are Udemy affiliate links — we earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Licences and exams named above are issued by state boards and certifying bodies we have no relationship with; we list them because they are what the job actually requires.