If you are wondering about how to get a job at the post office or how to apply for the post office, you can follow these steps:
According to the book Post Office Jobs, there are a lot of steps to follow when it comes to getting a job at the post office. Typically, an applicant will know whether or not they are being considered for the postal job within 2 weeks to 6 weeks of the job announcement’s closing date.
Often, applicants who pass the exam with a score of 70 and above are added in rank order to a hiring list for each job vacancy. The Postal Service committee will be the one responsible for working their way down until the most qualified candidate is found.
In addition to that, based on the book, the hiring process is composed of the following:
Prepare for the Postal Exam exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the latest average annual wage for postal service workers is $58,760. The table below depicts a USPS mailman salary, or a mail processor salary, among others.
United States Postal Careers | Annual Salary |
Postal service mail processors, sorters, and processing machine operators | $58,770 |
Postal service clerks | $55,280 |
Postal service mail carriers | $55,210 |
If you want to get a job at the post office, you must be able to pass the required exams. These are administered by the United States Postal Service. For entry-level positions, you have to take the postal exam 473 for delivery, distribution, and retail.
There are 5 USPS postal jobs you can apply for if you pass the test:
There are three categories: City Carrier Assistant 1, City Carrier Assistant 2, and Casual City Carrier. If you want to apply for these positions, the job description states that you will be the one responsible for collecting and delivering mail. It can be done either on foot or by vehicle in a specific location. You will also be required to carry mail (up to 35 pounds) in your satchels, and load and unload mail (up to 70 pounds).
There are two other categories: PSE Mail Processing Clerk (PSE MPC), and Casual Mail Processing Clerk. If you want to apply for these positions, the job description states that you will be the one working in Postal facilities by processing incoming or outgoing mail. It is done either manually or through automated mail processing equipment. You will also be responsible for collecting and transferring mail (up to 70 pounds).
There are two other categories: Mail Handler Assistant and Casual Mail Handler. If you want to apply for these positions, the job description states that you'll be the one who loads and unloads containers. You'll also open and empty sacks or lifts, and transport mail in postal facilities. You will have to carry mail (up to 70 pounds) and push rolling containers ( up to 1, 500 pounds).
There are two other categories: Postal Support Employee (PSE) Sales/Svcs/Distribution Associate, and Casual Sales/Svcs/Distribution Associate. If you want to apply for these positions, the job description states that you will be the one who’ll work in retail. You will offer customer service related functions at the Post Office in the front counter.
There are two other categories: Rural Carrier Associate (RCA) and Assistant Rural Carrier (ARC). You will be the one who delivers mail on a fixed route. You may be required to manage containers of mail (up to 70 pounds).
No, they don’t. But, college students can be a part of the supplemental workforce. They are needed during peak mail periods. For college students, they may be considered temporary or casual employees during the summer months. They are also not required to take entrance exams, and they cannot be given appointments to career positions.
It depends. The hiring process has a lot of steps to follow. Only those who have the highest scores and are considered as the most qualified are chosen for an interview. That’s why it is important to take the entrance exams seriously. To get a postal job, you must get a score of 70 or higher.
A postal carrier will be trained on the job with the help of experienced workers. It will include classroom instruction on safety and defensive driving. It might take at least 2 weeks or more, depending on how well you’ll learn your job.
When you submitted your application, you were given an eCareer Candidate ID. Please log back into your eCareer account (www.usps.com/employment) to find your Candidate ID if you don't have it.
Working as a mailman, also known as a postal carrier, is a terrific way for folks who enjoy spending time outside to do so. Despite the physical demands of the job, the salary and perks are adequate. If you pass the required examinations, you can begin working for the United States Postal Service directly after graduating from high school.
You may wonder "How to apply for post office jobs?" or "What are the USPS job requirements?" Mail carriers at the United States Postal Service must be at least 18 years old or 16 years old with a high school diploma. They must be citizens of the United States or have permanent resident alien status. When men reached the age of 18, they had to register with the Selective Service.
Yes. Shifts begin at 4:00 a.m. and end at 8:00 a.m. Evening and night shifts are also available.
The USPS Postal Exam, specifically the Virtual Entry Assessment (VEA), isn't a traditional multiple-choice test with a fixed number of questions. It comprises several assessments like Work Scenarios, Personality, and Checking for Errors. The total number of items varies, focusing on evaluating your suitability for postal roles rather than rote memorization. Our FREE practice tests help you navigate this unique format for 2026.
Many applicants find the Postal Exam challenging due to its unique assessment style, which evaluates cognitive abilities, situational judgment, and personality traits rather than just academic knowledge. Time management and understanding the specific job requirements are crucial. Consistent practice with a FREE online mock test can significantly improve your chances of passing in 2026.
To pass the Postal Exam on your first try, focus on understanding the VEA's structure and question types. Practice time management, especially for the Work Scenarios and Checking for Errors sections. Utilize FREE online practice tests and study guides to familiarize yourself with the content. Reviewing job descriptions thoroughly helps align your responses with USPS expectations for 2026.
There is no direct cost to take the official USPS Postal Exam. The United States Postal Service does not charge applicants to apply for jobs or to take the required Virtual Entry Assessments. Be wary of any third-party sites claiming to charge a fee for the actual exam. Our FREE practice test resources are designed to prepare you without any hidden costs for 2026.
You can find FREE online Postal Exam practice tests with questions & answers right here on PracticeTestGeeks.com. We offer comprehensive mock tests designed to simulate the actual USPS Virtual Entry Assessment. These resources are updated for 2026, providing detailed explanations to help you understand the concepts and improve your score for various postal jobs.