Trade Schools
If you’re looking to break into a rewarding job, consider a career as a locksmith!
It’s a rewarding profession open to those seeking to be independent, set their hours, and choose their niche while helping clients be secure in their homes, businesses, vehicles, and more!
Enjoy a vocation that allows locksmiths to slip into the field with a good, stable income in a relatively short training period of six months to two years.
Earn your accredited, affordable Locksmith career diploma online with Penn Foster in as little as 2 months!
Steps to Become a Locksmith
Locksmiths are the professionals people turn to at some of their most important and stressful times.
When they move into a new home, when someone has lost their key, or the old key has fallen into unsafe hands.
Or picture a motorist peering into their locked auto as the rain pours down, and they can see the keys resting in the ignition.
That is when the intrepid locksmith springs into action!
This job has kept folks safe for centuries and is one of trust.
Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the steps to becoming a locksmith include training and being of good character.
To become a locksmith:
- Meet the state’s minimum age requirement, usually 18-21.
- While no minimum educational standards exist, most locksmiths seek apprentices with a minimum high school diploma or equivalency.
- Good moral character—no deep criminal history—if convicted of serious crimes and felonies, receiving a license in those states and districts that require it may be an issue.
- Get the training and certifications required in the state where you want to practice.
- Earn the locksmith license/registrations required by your state/district.
- If required, undergo a background check and submit fingerprints.
- Work as an apprentice locksmith for an established locksmith.
- Consider joining a trade association–meet your peers and keep up with the latest advances and tech in the industry.
Training
For those not born into a long line of locksmiths as a family trade, the best way to learn the profession is to take a locksmith training program!
Candidates can find these in community colleges and vocational schools, and now locksmith training is available online so that candidates can learn at their own pace and convenience.
For those who reside in a state/district that requires certification?
Consider taking a training program that leads to a license.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships bring the opportunity to work with experienced professionals.
Some apprenticeships are paid.
However, many are experience-only and they are required to enter the field.
If you live in a state with strict formal requirements for apprentice opportunities, be sure that the opportunity to learn is from an experienced mentor locksmith who holds the proper license or certificate to ensure the most complete training.
Certification
Certification allows a candidate to demonstrate to potential employers and clients that the individual holding the tools to cut their new key is trained and trustworthy.
Not only is this a good accomplishment, but it’s also a legal requirement in 16 states/districts.
Three institutions can administer locksmith certifications:
- An accredited locksmith school
- An accredited certification course
- An accredited trade organization
License
Candidates seeking to enter the field of locksmithing in states/districts that require a license will need to get one before opening up their business.
Experience
The training requirement for being a locksmith will depend on the state where the candidate plans to work.
Research professional organizations like the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) to learn about your state’s requirements and approved training.
The ALOA is the governing body administering the certification exam.
Levels of locksmiths include:
- Registered Locksmith
- Certified Automotive Locksmith
- Certified Master Safe Tech.
Online Training Programs
Candidates can enter the time-honored profession of a locksmith through the latest tech and learn online at their own pace and schedule.
Online courses can be a fine way to start a new career.
They’re often more affordable and flexible, allowing students to work, study, and learn at their own pace and location.
To begin, candidates should search for schools in their location and research their websites and program offerings to learn about their locksmith program.
Candidates should consider drafting a list of the best options and contacting the leading online training centers.
Remember, whatever training route a candidate chooses should be accredited, and candidates need to have the opportunity to earn a valid certificate upon completing the training.
Training Time
Candidates looking into locksmith training are eager to ply their new trade; however, as with anything, acquiring skills, credentials, and confidence, and discovering the proper niche or specialized service pays dividends.
So, how long does it take to get going?
The most basic certification, ALOA Security Professionals Association, can be completed in a little over a week; other certification schools, programs, or training opportunities can take a couple of years.
Many factors come into play, including the state you work in.
Some states have no licensing requirements, while others require training programs and apprenticeships to be licensed and work in the trade.
To answer the question, gaining entry to the job can take a few months to two years.
Training programs generally run $800 – $1000.
However, paid apprenticeships may be a financially viable option for candidates who’ve completed a training program.
Do you work in a state where licensing is mandated?
The costs of earning a 2-year locksmith license, beyond classes, typically range from $100 to $300.
While there are innumerable options for learning the secrets to unlock a career as a locksmith, some of the major institutions that offer online education and training include:
ALOA Education
Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) is the top trade organization, and its mission is to educate, inculcate, and certify locksmiths.
ALOA offers online and in-person training and provides access to conventions, texts, and test prep to help students get approved from anywhere in North America.
ALOA Institutional Locksmiths (AIL) is the educational arm of the organization that provides:
- Affordable training year-round
- Online Education
- Industry certification
- Networking opportunities
- Computer-based testing
Contact Information
- Mailing Address: 1408 N. Riverfront Blvd, Suite 303, Dallas, TX 75207
- 214-819-9733
- https://www.aloa.org/ail
California Institute of Locksmithing
Discover an online program with solid locksmithing instruction crafted to industry standards in a program uniting pre-recorded videos, live lectures, and Q&A.
Start with the introductory “Lock Box” class to learn the basics of the locksmithing industry.
It is required and costs $400. Materials include educational videos, locksmith information, a training booklet, and more, including the opportunity to advance.
Each week, a different subject is explored.
Contact Information
- 30423 Canwood St #201 Agoura Hills, CA 91301
- 818-989-6386
- https://californiainstituteoflocksmithing.com/online-classes/\
Stratford Career Institute
Students learn about all types of keys and locking devices, from basics to advanced locksmithing techniques.
In addition, this course covers everything involved in owning your own business.
Students can start with a $20 down payment!
They study at their own pace, receive instructor support, and have access to eService, the online Student Center.
Note: This program is an introductory course in skills.
Completing the program doesn’t fulfill the legal requirements of state licenses/certifications.
$1,049-$749.00
Down Payment: $20.00
Monthly Payment: $40.50
Contact Information
- 800-254-4070
- https://www.scitraining.com/locksmith
Penn Foster
Locksmith & Home Security Technician: Online Locksmith Training Course
Career Diploma 2 months
Open up to Penn Foster’s Locksmith and Home Security Technician Training.
In this accredited online program, students learn about key making, electronic safety, and working with locks for homes, businesses, vaults, and safes.
It allows students to work at their own pace in a program priced at $939 or $59 a month.
The average time is five months, and the fast track is two months.
Contact Information
- 800-238-9574 (9 AM–9 PM ET)
- https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/locksmith-career-diploma
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average wage for locksmiths in the US in 2023, the last year for which data was collected, was $48,380, with annual salaries ranging from $31,620 to $76,460.
U.S. Average Salary: $55200
Salary Information by State
| State | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 190 | $41,490 | $19.95 | $54,490 | $28,600 |
| Alaska | 50 | $66,880 | $32.16 | $102,810 | $37,070 |
| Arizona | 360 | $49,860 | $23.97 | $77,490 | $35,350 |
| Arkansas | 90 | $40,580 | $19.51 | $57,690 | $27,040 |
| California | 2,130 | $65,800 | $31.64 | $88,950 | $46,950 |
| Connecticut | 130 | $66,530 | $31.99 | $97,360 | $44,880 |
| Delaware | 110 | $58,300 | $28.03 | $91,190 | $40,740 |
| D.C. | 160 | $73,320 | $35.25 | $74,990 | $69,760 |
| Florida | 1,480 | $53,900 | $25.92 | $74,730 | $30,700 |
| Georgia | 360 | $55,950 | $26.90 | $74,240 | $30,100 |
| Idaho | 80 | $50,640 | $24.35 | $76,080 | $36,460 |
| Illinois | 560 | $53,860 | $25.89 | $79,190 | $36,120 |
| Indiana | 240 | $50,040 | $24.06 | $65,620 | $31,560 |
| Iowa | 130 | $48,720 | $23.42 | $67,000 | $31,950 |
| Kansas | 140 | $47,950 | $23.05 | $60,790 | $29,120 |
| Kentucky | 130 | $45,430 | $21.84 | $61,070 | $35,100 |
| Louisiana | 230 | $46,440 | $22.33 | $81,370 | $20,000 |
| Maine | 30 | $54,580 | $26.24 | $71,670 | $41,780 |
| Maryland | 330 | $59,840 | $28.77 | $79,420 | $41,970 |
| Massachusetts | 440 | $66,970 | $32.20 | $97,720 | $46,930 |
| Michigan | 240 | $54,520 | $26.21 | $72,630 | $34,490 |
| Minnesota | 140 | $56,390 | $27.11 | $71,740 | $39,040 |
| Mississippi | 90 | $46,240 | $22.23 | $62,390 | $35,110 |
| Missouri | 160 | $51,080 | $24.56 | $81,890 | $30,530 |
| Montana | 90 | $48,890 | $23.51 | $62,470 | $36,010 |
| Nebraska | 90 | $46,800 | $22.50 | $68,830 | $31,150 |
| Nevada | 150 | $55,430 | $26.65 | $73,810 | $36,990 |
| New Hampshire | 40 | $54,100 | $26.01 | $66,920 | $31,200 |
| New Jersey | 570 | $59,040 | $28.39 | $79,070 | $45,840 |
| New Mexico | 110 | $44,810 | $21.54 | $60,840 | $29,160 |
| New York | 1,240 | $60,040 | $28.87 | $100,450 | $36,310 |
| North Carolina | 520 | $43,710 | $21.02 | $69,160 | $28,090 |
| North Dakota | 50 | $51,530 | $24.78 | $72,620 | $38,970 |
| Ohio | 420 | $47,780 | $22.97 | $64,140 | $36,040 |
| Oklahoma | 170 | $45,460 | $21.86 | $64,380 | $27,360 |
| Oregon | 230 | $59,550 | $28.63 | $77,110 | $36,180 |
| Pennsylvania | 430 | $56,550 | $27.19 | $83,000 | $35,550 |
| Rhode Island | 70 | $66,090 | $31.78 | $86,210 | $37,440 |
| South Carolina | 140 | $48,760 | $23.44 | $77,980 | $20,010 |
| Tennessee | 360 | $54,560 | $26.23 | $83,430 | $28,980 |
| Texas | 1,260 | $45,720 | $21.98 | $60,230 | $29,730 |
| Utah | 150 | $44,790 | $21.54 | $67,920 | $16,500 |
| Virginia | 440 | $58,090 | $27.93 | $77,600 | $36,070 |
| Washington | 370 | $55,890 | $26.87 | $77,100 | $37,400 |
| West Virginia | 50 | $53,680 | $25.81 | $95,780 | $24,180 |
| Wisconsin | 150 | $54,450 | $26.18 | $70,770 | $36,020 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
