Federal and many state clerical jobs require a qualified typist, commonly defined as 40 WPM on a 5-minute test with three or fewer errors.
| Level | Speed |
|---|---|
| Typical minimum | 40 WPM |
| Competitive | 50+ WPM |
| Target accuracy | 95% or higher |
What you will type
Official passages, letters and notes copied from a printed or on-screen source.
Tips
- Practice full 5-minute tests to build stamina.
- Keep uncorrected errors to three or fewer on a 5-minute test.
- Read the qualifications section of each job announcement on USAJOBS or your state jobs site.
An orange pace caret moves at 40 WPM so you can see whether you are on track. Change it in Settings.
At 50 WPM you also meet typical requirements for
Data Entry, Programmers, Virtual Assistants, Customer Service, Call Center Agents, Administrative Assistants.
Related
Frequently asked questions
What typing speed do government jobs need?
Employers commonly look for at least 40 WPM, and 50+ WPM makes you a strong candidate. Accuracy of 95% or higher matters just as much.
Can I get a certificate for government jobs job applications?
Yes. After a test of one minute or longer, click Certificate to download one with a verification ID that employers can check on our verification page.