Speed by job
What typing speed do I need?
Requirements depend on the employer, so we only show figures we can link to. Pick a job to see the requirement and its source, then test yourself.
Stated requirement
40 WPM typing speed; OPM's footnote bases this on a 5-minute sample with 3 or fewer errors
Source: U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Clerical and Administrative Support Positions. Checked Oct 25, 2026. Job postings change, so confirm on the posting you're applying to.
Don't see your job? Look for words like “WPM”, “KPH”, “keystrokes” or “typing test” in the posting, or ask the recruiter what test is used, how long it is and whether they score net or gross speed.