How to Become a Locksmith

Almost every exterior doorway in the world has a lock and at times when those locks are broken or keys lost, there is a need for a locksmith. The locksmith industry is a small field that is constantly in demand -- regardless of the fluctuating market and the changes in technology. Read the tips listed below and learn about how you can become a locksmith.

• Education While becoming a locksmith does not require formal education, it does require extensive training and apprenticeships to become a certified locksmith. Courses include study in rekeying, picking locks, safe combination changing, code cutting and business organization. Depending on where you live, apprenticeships may be as long as four years, but they are paid positions [source: Pick a Lock].
• Certification Obtaining certification is not a legal requirement in the locksmith industry. However, obtaining certification will provide you with credibility and increase your earning potential. The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) administer certification exams and grant a number of designations, including Registered Locksmith, Certified Automotive Locksmith and Certified Master Safe Tech [source: ALOA].
• Personal Characteristics There are a number of traits and skills that you should possess if you want to be a successful and in-demand locksmith. You will need mechanical knowhow, excellent hand-eye coordination and outstanding people skills. Being a locksmith is as much about forming relationships with people as it is about locks [source: LGA].

If locks and safes are something that interests you, consider becoming a locksmith. It is a career that allows you to be self-employed with the flexibility to create your own hours and the ability to move to another city or country and continue your profession.

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