Court, Municipal, and License Clerks Salary 2025: $48,700 Median, 3% Growth
Court, Municipal, and License Clerks earn a national median salary of $48,700 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range runs from $36,300 at the 10th percentile to $73,820 at the 90th. With about 179,750 people employed in the occupation, it’s a stable clerical role in the public sector.
How much Court, Municipal, and License Clerks earn
The national median annual wage for Court, Municipal, and License Clerks is $48,700, which works out to roughly $23 per hour. Mean annual pay sits at $52,320. The bottom 10 percent earn around $36,300, while the top 10 percent bring in $73,820 or more.
Pay varies significantly by industry and location. Clerks employed by local government — the largest employer — tend to earn in the middle of the range. Federal positions, though fewer, often pay above the national median.
- Median: $48,700 ($23/hr)
- 10th percentile: $36,300
- 90th percentile: $73,820
- Employment: 179,750
Pay by state
The highest-paying state for Court, Municipal, and License Clerks is the District of Columbia, with an average annual salary of $66,130. Washington follows at $64,680, then California at $63,320, Massachusetts at $61,730, and Rhode Island at $61,670.
At the other end, West Virginia pays an average of $37,810, Mississippi $37,210, and Arkansas is the lowest at $36,960. Costs of living and local government budgets drive much of the variation.
How to become a Court, Municipal, and License Clerk
Most Court, Municipal, and License Clerks need a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers prefer an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field. On-the-job training typically lasts a few months to a year.
Many states or localities require clerks to pass a certification exam or complete a training program, especially for court roles. Key skills include attention to detail, data entry proficiency, and knowledge of legal terminology and procedures.
- Earn a high school diploma (minimum); associate or bachelor’s helpful.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 3–12 months).
- Obtain state or local certification if required (e.g., for court clerks).
- Develop computer skills, especially in case management software.
Job outlook
Employment for Court, Municipal, and License Clerks is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 18,500 job openings each year over the decade, mostly due to workers retiring or moving to other roles.
Demand is tied to population growth and caseloads in courts and licensing agencies. Budget constraints at the state and local level can temper hiring, but turnover creates steady opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Court, Municipal, and License Clerk do?
These clerks handle administrative tasks for courts, municipal offices, or licensing agencies: processing legal documents, issuing licenses and permits, collecting fees, maintaining records, and assisting the public with forms and procedures. In courts, they may also schedule hearings and prepare dockets.
What education is required to become a Court, Municipal, and License Clerk?
A high school diploma is typically the minimum. Many employers prefer some college coursework or an associate degree in criminal justice, public administration, or business. Court clerks often need additional certification or training specific to their state’s court system.
What is the highest-paying state for Court, Municipal, and License Clerks?
The District of Columbia pays the highest average salary at $66,130 per year, followed by Washington ($64,680) and California ($63,320).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Court, Municipal, and License Clerks data.