Want to Become a Locksmith? Start Here

Congratulations on your decision to start your career as a Locksmith!

At How to Become a Locksmith you will be given FREE online access to the best tools available.  You’ll learn all about what type of training and licensing is required to become a locksmith, the different types of locksmith you can become, the tools you’ll need to be the very best locksmith, and much, much more.

How to Become a Locksmith will give you the tools to succeed and map out a path to a recession proof career.

If you’re new here we recommend you first read the rest of this post for a brief overview of how to become a locksmith.  Below you’ll find general information and then specific information by state.  If you still interested in more information then make sure you check out some of our most popular posts:

How to Become a Locksmith Overview

To become a locksmith, you must first meet the eligibility requirements required to become one. They are:

• You must be at least 18 years old
• You must complete the required training or apprenticeship
• You must take and pass a certification exam (not always required, but always recommended)
• Obtain a business license (if you want to be self employed)
• Clean criminal history (although many states will allow you to submit an FBI Criminal History Release, more on this later)

The required training to become a locksmith varies from state to state.

In Texas, for example, a two year apprenticeship under a licensed locksmith must be completed before a license will be granted. In many U.S. states a person can simply register the name of their business and pay a small fee at City Hall and become a licensed locksmith that very day. But there are other states like North Carolina that have a specific locksmith exam that must be taken and passed before a person will be issued a license.

Which States Require a Locksmith License?

The following states currently require locksmith licensing:

• Alabama
• California
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• Louisiana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• Oklahoma
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Washington D.C.

The following cities currently require locksmith licensing:

• New York City
• Nassau County Long Island

Where Do You Find Training to Become a Locksmith?

First, check in your local phone book for training facilities. Typically, all major cities offer offline training. In the event that there are no training facilities in your area, there are multiple online training programs available. In fact, training online may be the easiest and most convenient option since it can be done from your own living room and at times you are most available.

The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) administer certification exams and grant a number of designations, such as Registered Locksmith, Certified Automotive Locksmith, or Certified Master Safe Tech.

In addition to training classes and certification exams, ALOA also offers continuing education for locksmiths, provided by seminars and classes online or at a facility.

Locksmith training can be aggravating because we know you want to get started with your career right away. However, it is very important that you start your career as a locksmith on the right foot, with the proper certifications and qualifications necessary to be successful. Also keep in mind, that if you are considering working for an employer, even if these certifications are not required they can significantly increase your salary.

What if the state I live in doesn’t require a locksmith certification or training?

It is is still highly recommended that you complete one of the following:

• Complete a locksmith apprenticeship (under a Master or Certified Locksmith)
• Enroll in an online locksmith training course from a licensed locksmith school (currently 34 in the U.S.)

In the end you will be thankful you took the time to become a well qualified reputable locksmith.  In addition, you may obtain specialized knowledge and skills in a more defined field, such as automotive locksmithing.  During your training you will also be able to identify your strengths and weaknesses in order to better grow your locksmith business.

Keep at it, and use the other information on this site to begin your exciting new career as a locksmith.