Government clerk

Clerk & civil service typing test

Clerk and civil service typing tests are formal and often timed at five minutes. Practice on notices and records-request letters, and see the federal standard with its source.

PassageLength

Time left

1:00

Net WPM

–

Accuracy

–

This office has received your request for public records dated April 2. Your request has been assigned tracking number 24-0137. Under the applicable records law, we will respond within ten business days with either the requested records, an estimate of any copying fees, or an explanation of why additional time is needed. Records that are available electronically will be sent to the email address you provided. If you have questions about the status of your request, please reference your tracking number when you contact this office.

Start typing to begin the clock. Pasting is turned off, just like on a real hiring test.

The U.S. federal standard, explained

For Clerk-Typist (GS-2/4), Office Automation Clerk/Assistant, and positions titled (Typing) or (Office Automation), OPM's qualification standard sets 40 words per minute. Its footnote bases this on a 5-minute sample with 3 or fewer errors. Applicants can meet it by passing a performance test, showing an authorized proficiency certificate, or self-certifying, and agencies may test self-certified applicants (OPM).

State and local tests vary

State and city civil service exams set their own formats and speeds. Check the exam announcement for the length, scoring and whether errors are counted per word or per keystroke.

How to practice for a 5-minute test

Pick 5 minutes above. Aim for 3 errors or fewer, then raise speed. A RiteType certificate is a practice record; it isn't an OPM-authorized proficiency certificate.

Frequently asked questions

How many words per minute for a federal clerk typist?

OPM's qualification standard lists 40 words per minute for Clerk-Typist GS-2/4 and Office Automation positions, based on a 5-minute sample with 3 or fewer errors.

How long is a civil service typing test?

It varies. The federal standard is based on a 5-minute sample. State and local exams set their own length, so check the exam announcement.

Can I use a RiteType certificate for a federal job?

OPM accepts certificates from schools or organizations authorized by its local office. RiteType is not an authorized issuer, so use the certificate as a practice record and to show progress, not as an official proficiency certificate.