Becoming a locksmith involves both practical and classroom training. The practical part gives you a hands-on experience. It is necessary to state it clearly that locksmith training does not require any university degree but there are several programs available for it.
If you are serious about being a locksmith, you should enroll in any of the several locksmith schools around the country. You just need to be sure that the school is accredited by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
In fact, the organization has a list of approved locksmith programs on their website. This is a very good starting point. Most locksmith training programs will include courses on:
•How to identify different kinds of keys: It is necessary for a locksmith to know the kind of lock you use by the key you present.
•How to make keys: Locksmiths should also be able to make new keys or make a duplicate of the existing one.
•How to install all kinds of locks easily
•How to pick locks: This is necessary for clients who mistakenly lock their keys inside their car or home.
•How to fix all kinds of commercial and residential locks.
After attending locksmith programs, you also need to gain hands-on experience for a couple of years by working as an apprentice or a trainee. In many states, locksmiths are required to obtain only a practice license from the state before they are able to practice. It is a crime if they practice on their own without the license. In fact, it may be treated as a felony.
In some other states, in addition to license to practice, locksmiths also need to pass a criminal record background check. This is because of the sensitive nature of the profession. A locksmith will be working on clients locks and will likely have access to sensitive areas within the homes or offices of his clients. As such, his integrity and honesty both have to be verified and confirmed. In fact, some clients will even ask for a proof that a locksmith has passed the criminal record test before they can entrust their homes and offices to him.
To fast-track your journey to the top of the industry, it is advisable to get certified. This often substitutes years of experience. In fact, some companies rate certification above experience even though it is more beneficial to acquire both. The two major certifications for locksmiths currently are Certified Professional Locksmiths and Certified Master Locksmiths. The latter is higher than the former but the former is prerequisite to it.
The course breakdown and structure of the two certifications can be found on ALOA’s website. While certification, expertise and experience can get you to the top of the profession, it takes consistent clients’ satisfaction to remain there. This is where you need to distinguish yourself and get on your way to a rewarding career as a mobile locksmith.
