Retail sales worker: no formal education needed, on-the-job training, then supervisor or manager
Retail sales workers typically do not need formal education; some employers prefer a high school diploma. Most learn on the job in a few days to a few months. Some states license selected retail sales jobs, such as car salespersons.
For: Friendly, outgoing people who like helping customers and don't mind evenings and weekends.
Route 1: Get hired → on-the-job training Typical
Training usually lasts a few days to a few months and covers customer service, security, store policies and the cash register or point-of-sale system.
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Start here
No formal education required
Some employers prefer a high school diploma or equivalent.
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Days to months
On-the-job training
Auto and parts sellers get extra product training.
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Goal
Retail sales worker
With experience and seniority, workers may choose departments with higher earnings and commissions.
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
Route 2: Sales worker → supervisor or store manager Moving up
Some employers prefer a bachelor's degree for managerial positions.
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Start here
Retail sales worker
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Optional
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Goal
Supervisor or manager
Sales managerBLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
Licenses, registrations and certifications
Each one is marked: a state or federal license is the law, a registration through an employer comes with the job, and a voluntary certification is one employers may ask for.
- State license for some sales jobs
State licensing agencies · State license - Only for selected retail sales occupations in some states, such as car salespersons.
BLS
Retail Sales Workers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
State rules
Some states require licensure for selected retail sales occupations, such as car salespersons; you may need to pass an exam or a background check. Requirements vary by state: contact the state licensing agency. BLS
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Where to go next
Every career page in this cluster: entry, license, BLS pay and outlook.
What the job is, BLS pay and job outlook, and how to become one.