Becoming a locksmith can be a journey of fused experiences; fun, rewarding, and challenging. As easy-go as this profession seems, you require guidance on how to become a Locksmith. This will distinguish you from your peers.
In this read, we have meticulously distilled all you need to know to become a Locksmith. We didn’t stop there; you’ll further find information enabling you to distinguish yourself as a Locksmith.
History of Locksmithing
Locksmithing is one of the ancient professions; it began in Egypt and Babylon 4000 years ago. The Smiths used wood to create things that would guard the door utilizing the tin tumbler principle. Most of the locks made during that time were big and had pins that were moved using a large, cumbersome key.
The key resembled a toothbrush embedded into the lock and shifted upwards to unlock the doors. One of the old locks was found in the Assyrian empire in Khorsababd city near Nineveh.
It’s believed to have been created around 704 and looked like the wooden blocks produced. The lock and critical culture expanded to ancient Greece, Rome, and other countries like China.
Moreso, the Romans had their valuables under lock and key. They would be seen keeping the keys on their ring fingers to guarantee that the key didn’t get lost and was also a sign of wealth.
However, the lock change started between 870-900 AD when the first metal locks appeared. They were simple metal locks that were thought to have been created by English craftsmen. After that, there were locks built of iron and Brass in Europe and China.
The design and how the locks worked continued for an extended period. Though in the 18th century, there was a rise in the complexity and advancement of locks and keys. A Modern locksmith is complex, which has made a smith’s work more complicated.
Table of contents
- History of Locksmithing
- What is Locksmithing?
- Who is a Locksmith?
- What does a Locksmith do?
- Can I study to become a Locksmith online?
- How much does a Locksmith make?
- How much does it cost to become a Locksmith?
- What is the job outlook & growth of a Locksmith?
- How can I become a Locksmith?
- What is a Locksmith’s Educational Requirement?
- What Certification & Licensing does a Locksmith need?
- FAQs About Locksmiths
- Conclusion
- Reference
- Recommendation
What is Locksmithing?
Locksmithing is a traditional trade, and it is the science and art of making and defeating locks. Locksmiths enjoy problem-solving by removing something that does not work, fixing it, and putting it back together. However, a career as a locksmith allows you to use your creative, curious nature to earn a living!
Who is a Locksmith?
A keysmith is a person who works with locks, keys, and security systems. Hence, Keysmiths fix broken locks, make keys, and install security systems like alarms. In most countries, they must follow a strict set of rules. In some countries, locksmiths start as apprentices. And in others, they must obtain a certificate or degree after training at a school or university.
What does a Locksmith do?
Locksmiths fix broken locks, make keys, and install security systems like alarms. In most countries, locksmiths must follow a strict set of commands. Interestingly, most keysmiths start as apprentices. Others must get a certificate or degree after training at a school or university.
The duties of a locksmith extend beyond just opening or replacing locks, and it can take many years to complete the profession. Many locksmiths attend to their customers on-site or from shop premises.
Moreso, locksmiths provide services for getting entry to a locked car, house, or any other lock, replacing locks when a lock fails, retrieving key when a key is lost, or extracting snapped or broken keys from existing locks. Notably, many keysmiths will also be specialists in gaining entry to safes and hold thorough knowledge of domestic and commercial security.
However,
A good craftsman working in the field of locksmithing must first have good operational tools that are strong enough to finish any job. This can be anything from the tools needed to fix a faulty lock problem to the material needed to determine the root of the lock’s fault.
They also require the essential tools to finish lock replacements when needed.
Furthermore, Locksmiths usually work with all types of locks. Other areas that locksmiths cover include auto locksmithing, safes, and access control. Hence, these areas are specialist and need specific training.
Finally, steel is one of the most commonly used metals that locksmiths use to make keys in Europe. Locksmiths in the US, Australia, and New Zealand would use brass as their primary material.
Can I study to become a Locksmith online?
If you wish to obtain the skills to become a locksmith, someone who makes and repairs locks, several online schools offer short training programs. However, many vocational schools and community colleges offer these online training programs.
In general, no requirements are needed, and upon completion, students know to work as locksmiths in retail settings or at security companies.
Furthermore, online learning options are limited because locksmithing is a technical trade that demands practical hands-on training and practice.
While a few community colleges and vocational schools offer online courses, the majority of online classes in locksmithing are provided by for-profit educational providers.
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How much does a Locksmith make?
The average Locksmith salary is about $51,823 as of December 26, 2019, but the range typically falls between $44,960 and $58,425. Salary contents can vary.
This is often widely dependent on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the years you have spent in your profession.
How much does it cost to become a Locksmith?
In-person and online Locksmith cost of study
Locksmith apprenticeship and certification salary
Locksmiths usually love art and designs. See the Best Graphic Designs Schools in the World
What is the job outlook & growth of a Locksmith?
A locksmith’s job growth/outlook is quite promising as it is expected to increase. Along with the expected growth are new responsibilities.
A Locksmith must stay current on new technology and ever-changing security systems and lock systems. Locksmiths can expect a 12 percent growth rate for the next few years.
How can I become a Locksmith?
Now we’re here meticulously go through the steps on how to become a distinguished Locksmith;
#Step1: Locksmith Training
Locksmiths acquire formal education to learn what is needed to succeed. Community colleges, vocational schools, and locksmith associations usually provide certificate programs.
Alternatively, a person who wants to become a locksmith can gain education and training by engaging in an apprenticeship program.
These programs provide an opportunity for a new locksmith to work under the supervision of a seasoned professional.
Finally, their supervisor knows about the practical aspects of the jobs and the professional and legal aspects.
#Step2: Obtain Work Experience
State laws regarding the necessary work experience period vary.
However, most states need one year of full-time work experience at a locksmith shop to obtain an appropriate license.
In addition, when looking for a place to get work experience, the locksmith might be able to continue at a business where they finished their apprenticeship.
If that is not possible, they must apply to local locksmith shops.
#Step3: Get a License to Become a Locksmith
Most states have some licensure requirements in place to ensure that professional ideals are upheld and that customers’ safety is held to the highest standard.
Even though qualifications vary by state, most states need a detailed application, a background check, and the submission of fingerprints.
A local governmental agency can provide the details for each state.
Step4: Qualify for a Professional Certification
The American Locksmiths of America (ALOA) offers different locksmith professional certifications.
The levels of licensure include:
Each certification level needs the examinee to pass a certification exam with 70% accuracy.
Step5: Participate in Continuing Education
When working as a locksmith, it is essential to obtain continuing education. However, locksmiths gain knowledge and skills by taking advantage of training.
Participation in continuing education helps locksmiths learn other areas of their careers. Also, continuing education gives information about current technology and new laws that affect the locksmith.
Additionally, some locksmiths use continuing education as an opportunity to earn a higher designation.
Step6: Become a Member of a Professional Organization
The leading professional organization for locksmiths is the ALOA. Some states have professional organizations for locksmiths who work in that particular area.
Finally, some advantages of participating in a professional organization include continuing education opportunities., representation to lawmakers, group insurance benefits, and participation in a network of career professionals.
What is a Locksmith’s Educational Requirement?
The first step in earning the appropriate education for a career as a locksmith is to gain a high school diploma or GED. In most states, this is the minimum level of acceptable education.
Working as a locksmith needs much more knowledge and skill than a high school diploma provides, but this provides a good foundation for further education and training.
However, following earning a high school diploma, you might want to check with community colleges and technical schools in your area for locksmith training courses.
The courses offered in this program will cover topics such as identifying keys, opening locks without a key, code, or combination, opening locked safes, duplicating keys, opening car doors without a key and maintaining a master essential system.
In addition to or instead of formal education, the ALOA suggests that on-the-job training is beneficial.
Most education and training programs last from a few months to four years. An alternative path to formal education and training is an apprenticeship.
Furthermore, an unpaid worker participates in on-the-job training as a locksmith when completing an apprenticeship.
The apprentice gets first-hand experience with the technical aspects of working as a locksmith and the business aspects of the career.
Those locksmiths who agree to mentor an apprentice should hold a professional certificate or license.
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What Certification & Licensing does a Locksmith need?
State requirements will vary, but locksmiths in most states must get a state-issued license before they can work as a locksmith.
While the license proves the locksmith’s ability and may help obtain employment, it also protects the consumer and ensures that the locksmith maintains an adequate level of professionalism.
Finally, the fundamentals of receiving a locksmith license include an application, a background check, and filing your fingerprints with federal and state registries.
Following licensure, a locksmith may desire certification as well.
Four certifications are given by the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA)
The ALOA certifications include Registered Locksmith (RL), Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL), Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL), and Certified Master Locksmith (CML)
The Safe and Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA) offers two certifications for the maintenance and repair of safes and vaults.
Finally, these certifications are Certified Professional Safe Tech and Certified Master Safe Tech.
FAQs About Locksmiths
A locksmith works with locks on doors, windows, safes, cars, etc. Locksmiths install, repair, and adjust locks in everything from cars to office buildings. They also offer services to people locked out or individuals wanting to consult with someone about their security systems.
Locksmithing is the science and art of making and defeating locks. Locksmithing is a traditional trade and, in most countries, requires the completion of an apprenticeship.
It can take several months to complete a locksmith training course. Some programs take as few as two months to complete, while others take four or more. On-the-job training can take additional months or years to complete. Apprenticeships typically last two to three years.
The number of locksmith workers in 2018 is expected to be 24,800, representing an approximate 12 percent growth. The average growth rate for all occupations between 2008 and 2018 is 10.1 percent, so the job outlook for locksmiths is better than the national average.
Key cutting is another area of experience for locksmiths. … A locksmith who offers a critical cutting service will be able to cut keys for any type of lock such as garage door lock, cabinet, back door, uPVC door, padlock, etc..
A locksmith is someone who works with locks on doors, windows, safes, cars, etc. Locksmiths install, repair, and adjust locks in everything from cars to office buildings, and they also offer services to people who are locked out or individuals who want to consult with someone about their security systems.
Locksmithing is the science and art of making and defeating locks. Locksmithing is a traditional trade and in most countries requires completion of an apprenticeship.
It can take several months to complete a locksmith training course. Some programs take as few as two months to complete, while others take four or more. On-the-job training can take additional months or years to complete. Apprenticeships typically last two to three years.
The expected number of locksmith workers in 2018 is expected to be 24,800, which represents an approximate 12 percent growth. The average growth rate for all occupations between 2008 and 2018 is 10.1 percent, so the job outlook for locksmiths is better than the national average.
Key cutting is another area of experience for locksmiths. … A locksmith who offers a key cutting service will be able to cut keys for any type of lock such as garage door lock, cabinet, back door, uPVC door, padlock etc..
The expected number of locksmith workers in 2018 is expected to be 24,800, which represents an approximate 12 percent growth. The average growth rate for all occupations between 2008 and 2018 is 10.1 percent, so the job outlook for locksmiths is better than the national average.
Conclusion
You will agree that your life as a Locksmith will be enriching. For one, you’ll get to help people solve a fundamental need while earning from the same.
Whatever you do with this information, be the best in your career. Be renowned, be indispensable!
Cheers to being the best Locksmith there will be!
Reference
- vocationaltraininghq.com – How to become a Locksmith
- locksmiths.co.uk – im-interested-in-becoming-a-locksmith-what-should-i-do/
- https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/faq/can-earn-60k-per-year-as-a-locksmith-after-3-day-course/
- https://education.costhelper.com/locksmith-school.html
- acmelocksmith.com – How to Become a Locksmith
- https://www.ucas.com/ucas/after-gcses/find-career-ideas/explore-jobs/job-profile/locksmith
- https://www.curioushistory.com/the-amazing-history-of-locksmithing/
- http://www.historyofkeys.com/locks-history/history-of-locksmithing/
- https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locksmith
- study.com – Online_Schools_for_Becoming_a_Locksmith_How_to_Choose
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