How to Become a Locksmith in Missouri

A locksmith works with all types of locks and locking mechanisms.

These professionals have in-depth knowledge of keys, locking devices, and how to service these devices.

As a locksmith, you will be mobile most of the day, traveling from one client’s premises to another.

Many locksmiths choose to work for an employer.

Some choose to open their own business.

The good news is that as long as there is a need for security, there will be a need for a locksmith and a locking device.

Steps to Become a Locksmith in Missouri

Step 1: Join a trade school and obtain a certificate in locksmithing.

This step is optional as certification is not a requirement in Missouri.

Step 2: Apply for an apprenticeship under a master’s or certified locksmith to gain hands-on experience.

This step is optional but will greatly enhance your probability of getting a good job.

Step 3: Join a trade association.

Step 4: Apply for a job as a locksmith and work in the field.

Step 5: Open your own locksmith business.

This step requires the application of certain licenses and permits as required by the state of Missouri.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Locksmith in Missouri

Missouri does not require locksmiths to obtain a license to work in the field.

However, to operate a business in Missouri, the government requires that a business obtain a license at the county or city level, depending on the area and the requirements of the area.

Missouri, like many of the other US states, has one license that is regulated at the state level; the sales tax license, or seller’s permit.

If you plan to operate a storefront business that sells keys, locks, locking devices, and other security equipment, you will need to obtain a seller’s permit.

A seller’s permit may be obtained from the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Locksmith Programs

1. Penn Foster

Penn Foster offers an online program that may be completed in seven months.

There is a fast-track program that may be completed in as little as five months.

The program includes five courses, two projects, and 19 examinations.

The accredited program is offered completely online and is self-paced.

In this program, students learn about key making, different kinds of locks, including vehicles, vaults, and safes, as well as servicing these locks.

Tuition is $899 when paid in full, or $59 a month.

2. California Institute Of Locksmithing

The California Institute Of Locksmithing offers three in-person training programs at their campus in California and an online program.

The online program is divided into two sub-categories: basic and advanced.

Both sub-categories of the online program also include a lock box and a basic toolkit required by the locksmith.

Each program comes with one year of text and email support, one year of access to class lectures and videos, as well as complimentary locksmith dispatch software and organization tools.

Tuition for these programs is as follows: there is an introductory lockbox course that all new students must attend.

The program includes 13 lessons and tuition is $400.

Both basic and advanced online locksmithing programs consist of 44 courses each and tuition is $2,500.

3. Ashworth College

Most programs in Missouri are taken online.

Ashworth College offers a four-month online locksmithing program.

Students gain access to the student portal, an online library, access to thousands of resources for research, and an active online community, where students can ask questions and gain knowledge.

The program covers topics such as lock and key mastering, fundamentals of home security, and home security wiring.

Students are introduced to the various types of keys and locking devices, how to service these devices, and how to set up a home security system.

The goal of the program is to get students job-ready upon graduation.

Students learn the basics of the job and are equipped with the skills and knowledge to start their businesses.

Tuition is $899 when paid in full, or students can opt to pay monthly, at a rate of $59 per month.

Salary

The average annual salary for a certified Locksmith in Missouri is $58,206 on the high and $36,568 on the low.

This is approximately $28 an hour, $1,119 a week, or $4,850 a month on the high end for an entry-level position.

The salary varies according to the exact location in the state of Missouri, 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 Missouri

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers, OCC Code 49-9094, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.