Court, Municipal, and License Clerks
Court, municipal, and license clerks handle administrative paperwork and records for courts, city governments, and licensing agencies. They prepare legal documents, maintain files, answer correspondence, and keep financial records. Most work in government offices, courthouses, or municipal buildings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against court, municipal, and license clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing court dockets, filing legal documents, and responding to public inquiries about permits or licenses. Clerks maintain records, process applications, schedule hearings, and assist judges or council members by gathering information for cases or meetings. Much of the work is computer-based, handling databases and official correspondence.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd fit well in this role if you're organized, detail-oriented, and prefer structured work with clear procedures. People who like conventional tasks and managing operations—plus those who enjoy advancing organizational goals—thrive here. Strong administrative skills and accuracy matter more than creative problem-solving.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $56,820 | $66,130 | $79,270 | 50 |
| Washington | $58,200 | $64,680 | $75,960 | 3,450 |
| California | $58,170 | $63,320 | $74,040 | 12,460 |
| Massachusetts | $52,030 | $61,730 | $73,800 | 4,360 |
| Rhode Island | $52,150 | $61,670 | $70,990 | 660 |
| Oregon | $54,420 | $61,300 | $66,660 | 1,820 |
| Connecticut | $51,130 | $60,480 | $68,470 | 1,300 |
| Maryland | $51,410 | $58,380 | $64,610 | 2,360 |
| Nevada | $47,900 | $56,680 | $65,440 | 1,250 |
| Minnesota | $50,500 | $56,520 | $64,470 | 5,360 |
| Alaska | $45,930 | $54,270 | $62,010 | 650 |
| North Dakota | $47,400 | $53,850 | $61,010 | 600 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Basic Court Security Certification (CSC1) — National Sheriffs' Association
- Advanced Court Security Certification (CSC2) — National Sheriffs' Association
- Master of Court Security Certification (CSC3) — National Sheriffs' Association
- Court and Judicial Security Manager (CSM) — National Sheriffs' Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against court, municipal, and license clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-4031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.