Locksmith Courses: How to Become a Locksmith
There are several courses online that you can take to begin your locksmith career. This page seeks to explain locksmith training courses that you may need to consider, what they involve, and what the differences are. However, this is just a guide as we will not be delving deep into the subject. We aim to give you an overview of what to expect as you take the first step in your journey to becoming a locksmith.
Locksmithing as a Lucrative Job
The locksmithing industry is a very large one and cuts across many areas, including commercial and domestic markets. Because this job is often in high demand, locksmiths are never short of work. You get a regular stream of work all year. As a professional locksmith, you will often be called by people who have just moved into a new house, people who have bad door locks, or people caught in a lockout.
Furthermore, every year, a good number of properties are purchased, and landlords would want to change the locks every time a tenant moves out. Lots of businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, shops, and offices, would want to make sure their businesses have the latest security upgrades. These business owners would want to choose locksmiths with proven skills and experience so as to ensure their business is secured and to the highest standards.
The requirements for the locksmith industry are quite vast. We have all come across lost keys while walking through a street before. This means, literally, that people will always need a professional locksmith.
Locksmith Training Courses: What Courses are Available?
There are a wide range of courses available and specifically tailored for newcomers. However, we will discuss two main courses. They include:
1.Level 3 Diploma for Commercial Locksmiths and Property Security
With 14 comprehensive, in-depth lessons, this course teaches you all that is needed to become a skilled and qualified locksmith. This course is also now the highest degree of training available in the field.
2. Level 4 Locksmith Certification
The highest level of certification available in the field is Level 4, which the CML has granted to this course. This course now offers unparalleled prospects for locksmith training as it has recently been revised for 2022 with some intriguing new content.
Skills Requirements
Mathematical and mechanical skills are both necessary when working with various lock-and-key systems. You need to understand the fundamentals of electronics and physics to operate security systems and alarms. These technical abilities, as well as commercial and promotional skills, are required if you intend to start your own locksmith company.
In conclusion, you can complete an online locksmith training course through several colleges. This can be done through several online self-evaluations, interactive practicals, and multimedia presentations. You should also know that if your classes are not going to be on-site, you will need to purchase locksmith kits that will be needed to practice. On-site classes will usually have these locksmith kits available for your use. Some courses are also flexible, which means you can take them even while holding full-time jobs.
What does a typical course entail?
During a locksmith training course, you will learn about the different types of locks that exist. This will include lever locks, deadbolts, car locking systems, padlocks, etc. The course will also cover tasks that you will undertake on the job, such as copying keys, installing both simple and complex lock systems, etc. Many of these locksmith training courses are lecture-based. However, you will also find some that offer hands-on practical classes.
Potential locksmiths will also be taught how to pick locks, crack safes and remain up to date on the development of electronic lock systems. You can expect the following core courses:
- Starting a locksmith company
- Vaults and safes
- Types of keys
- Automotive lock
- Electronic lock systems
- Mechanical lock systems
- Making keys
Additionally, students may learn installation techniques for door locks, padlocks, and other locking devices. In addition to this classroom instruction, students may also expect hands-on practice in the lab setting.
FAQs
Is locksmithing a good profession?
The locksmithing industry is big and there is always room for anyone looking to test these waters. Because of the constant need for lock and key related solutions, there is always a need for a professional locksmith. As a locksmith who is skilled and knowledgeable, you won’t have a shortage of work as there is a steady stream of work. So yes, being a locksmith is a very good job.
What qualifications do I need to become a locksmith?
You don’t need any previous qualifications to take a locksmith training program. However, you will need a valid driver’s licence as well as proof of identity. Other attributes that may be beneficial to you are a flair for details when carrying out complex procedures, inquisitiveness, having no problem doing things by yourself, and an understanding of electronics and mechanics.
How long will it take to complete a training program?
It would usually take anything from 1–8 days. However, learning can continue for months as you need to practise and gain experience in order to become a skilled locksmith.
What should I expect after completing a locksmith training course?
After completing a locksmith course, you will be given a certificate of completion, after which you can begin your fulfilling career with regular job flow. You can also decide to start your own company as there are no limits or restrictions when it comes to this industry. However, you will need to get your practising license and register your company with the association. It is going to be nothing but an uphill climb from there.
What does a locksmith do?
A locksmith is tasked with attending to a variety of lock and key needs. A locksmith does the following:
- Make keys
- Cut key
- Repair door locks
- Respond to lockouts
- Crack safe
- Unlock car doors
- Car ignition repairs
- Open and install locks on garage doors
- Provide security consultations to homeowners and businesses
- Supplying, installing, and upgrading locks, etc.
A locksmith also needs to travel a lot as they will be needed on various properties within a city, state, or across states.