Becoming a locksmith means learning all about locks how to fix them, replace them and make new keys for them. A locksmith can help with your home, business, car, safes, or anything else you need to keep locked.
What it takes to become a locksmith
There is a certain pathway to become a locksmith like any other profession and in the United States there are two requirements that have to to be met for people who wants to get a career as a locksmith.
Minimum age requirement of 18 years
Clear criminal background check
Beyond these 2 requirements becoming a locksmith also involves meeting a few more demands that are specific to the state you’re live in.
Different states might have different qualifications and we will discuss it later on, but if you’re consider starting your own locksmith business be aware that there may be licensing and some paperwork involved.
Significant qualities for a locksmith
There are certain qualities that are essential for a locksmith like honesty and integrity. This profession requires handling delicate information related to the safety and security of stranger people. Details like key patterns and security codes that should only be entrusted with a reliable person because even with the smallest mistake you can put in danger someone’s property or even worse someone’s life.
Also showing that you’re responsible and can handle great information will improve your chances of getting a job in this field. Qualities like being patient, good with your hands and being physically strong can make you a better locksmith.
Become a certified locksmith
There is no an official path to start on a locksmith and each locksmith has its own story of training but still there are few ways to learn the trade including professional courses and traditional internships.
One necessary requirement is a high school diploma or a GED, in fact the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) recommends courses for upcoming locksmiths covering subjects such as mathematics, electronics, metalworking, mechanical drawing, physics, business economy and English.
Licensing
Depending on where you live you may have the opportunity to enter the world of locksmithing after completing your studies and in the 15 countries mentioned below it is a mandatory to obtain a license in order to work as a certified locksmith.
Alabama, Connecticut, California, Louisiana, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, Nebraska, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Oregon, North Carolina,Tennessee, Virginia, Texas.
If you happen to live in one of these states you will need to acquire a state license. For example locksmiths in Maryland are governed by Title 12.5 of the Business Regulation Article, Annotated Code of Maryland also known as the “Maryland Locksmiths Act.”
This act outlines a licensing procedure which includes undergoing background check, providing proof of liability insurance and paying a fee of $225. Once getting the license it will remain valid for two years before renewal.
