How to Become a Locksmith in Kentucky

A Locksmith’s job is to install, restore, replace, and adjust a variety of lock systems in everything, such as doors, cars, and office buildings, by using special tools and access devices.

They also cut both duplicate keys and new ones.

Although there are no required professional qualifications to become a Locksmith, it is still recommended to have the proper knowledge to guarantee a better position in the industry.

Steps to Become a Locksmith in Kentucky

Step 1: The first step to becoming a Locksmith in Kentucky is to start your Locksmith training.

This means that you will join a trade school that offers any approved or accredited locksmith-related program to obtain your certificate.

The course can be completed either traditionally or online.

Step 2: Upon the completion of your Locksmith training program, you should be set for employment under any experienced Locksmith company where you can gain real hands-on experience in your career.

Step 3: Set up your own Locksmith business.

After you have gained all the required knowledge, training, and experience, you can start your own business.

You will need to get a business license to register your business with City Hall.

There will also be a requirement to have a contractor’s license to prove that your business name differs from your legal name, as well as to register your fictional business name.

Step 4: Sign up with a trade association group to help you stay updated with the developments in the sector.

This will also expand your customers, industry bonding as well as insurance options.

Step 5: The final step to starting your own locksmithing business, is to start advertising your business online and locally to reach your target audience.

Licensing Requirements to become a Locksmith in Kentucky

There is no licensing requirement to become a Locksmith in Kentucky, which means you will only have to go through a formal training program to get your certificate and start your career as a Locksmith.

However, there are requirements for licensure to start your own business as a Locksmith, which has been mentioned above.

Locksmith Programs in Kentucky

1. Ashworth College

Ashworth College offers an online Locksmithing certificate program.

The course teaches and provides its students with the knowledge and the essential tools of the trade and takes just four months to complete.

Upon the completion of the program, students will be able to start in an entry-level position in the workplace.

The school’s tuition already includes all the tools you need to complete the program, which means there are no additional costs after you pay enrollment.

There are two payment options for the tuition, which include full pay, which is $899, and monthly pay, which is $1089 and $59 a month.

2. MBA USA Inc

MBA USA offers a 5-day Professional Locksmithing Certificate program.

The course covers the basic knowledge and in-depth hands-on training that is required to be able to work in the locksmithing field.

It includes everything from performing keying and repairing lock systems on cars or doors to opening and restoring security safes.

The tuition is $1,695.00, which includes a Locksmith tool kit, mug, pen, and notepad.

The facility is located in Nicholasville, KY.

3. Penn Foster College

Penn Foster College offers a five to seven-month Online Diploma Locksmith training program.

The program covers all the basic knowledge and training of a Locksmith that will prepare its students for an entry-level position in the industry.

The school offers two payment options for the tuition, starting with the full pay, which is $899, and the monthly pay, which is $1089 and $50 per month.

4. Locksmith Security Institute

Locksmith Security Institute, located in Nicholasville, KY, offers a two to five-week Locksmith skills course which consists of theory and practical classes.

It includes everything from installing and removing locks on doors and cars to repairing and duplicating their keys.

The school offers two programs: GSA Certified Safe and Vault Technician, Certified Locksmith, and Access Control Technician.

Tuition depends on the course you take, but it is approximately $5,200.

This program prepares its students for the challenges they will be facing in the workplace and teaches them how to approach them.

Salary

The average annual salary for a certified Locksmith in Kentucky is $52,791.

This is approximately $25 an hour, $1,015 a week, or $4,399 a month on the high end for an entry-level position.

The salary varies according to the exact location in the state of Kentucky, the type of employer, and the number of years of experience the candidate has.

Annual Salary Range:* Salary information last updated 2025

Regional Salary in Kentucky

* Salary information based on the May 2024 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers, OCC Code 49-9094, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.