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The advent of sophisticated electronic security systems on homes, buildings and automobiles has led to a need for locksmiths that possess advanced training in these systems. For example, certain automobile manufacturers use Secure Data Release Model, or SDRM, which disables vehicles that have been stolen. Locksmiths may soon have access to high-level security codes that enable them to access these vehicles by scanning their codes, in order to reset them. This kind of cooperation with manufacturers makes locksmiths highly valuable workers that provide essential security services in all sorts of settings--as long as they have the right training.
With SDRM and other electronic lock or security systems becoming more and more prevalent, proper training of locksmiths has become increasingly important. Whether you plan to work for an institution, such as a school or health care facility, in building maintenance or on your own as a self-employed locksmith, your career options should be more plentiful with formal training from a locksmith training program.
Locksmith Training Overview
The most popular industries or businesses employing locksmiths are investigation or security services; colleges and universities (often in grounds or facilities management/maintenance); school districts; state governments; and hospitals. Their work involves more than simply making keys. Locksmiths can repair or open locks, change locks or safe combinations, install or repair safes, and work with security or alarm systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most locksmiths prepare for this career with short on-the-job training. However, because the work of locksmiths is becoming more sophisticated, additional training may be necessary in order to find the best employment prospects. Training programs include work both in the classroom and in the field, handling real locksmith work. Once you complete your classroom program, you may need to complete an apprenticeship before you can work as a full-fledged locksmith.
Locksmith Training: Degrees and Coursework
Typically, locksmith training lasts just weeks--sometimes even a few days--and upon completion, you are traditionally granted a diploma or certificate. The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) oversees locksmith programs and awards graduates the Registered Locksmith (RL) designation, upon their successful completion of an exam. Locksmiths who wish to become specialists in their field can also pursue additional designations, including Certified Automotive Locksmith (CAL), Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL), Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL) and Certified Master Locksmith (CML) designations.
While every locksmith program is different, there are some general topics that you can expect to cover in your training. These include:
Your training may also include how to set up or run a locksmith shop, including inventory, equipment and best business practices. Locksmiths should also possess other skills, such as good manual dexterity, good hand-eye coordination and excellent communication skills.
Locksmith Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, locksmith jobs are projected to grow about as fast as average (which equates to job growth of 7-13 percent) during the 2008-2018 period. The median hourly wage for locksmiths in May 2009 was $17.20 and the median annual wage was $35,780.
The top-paying industries for locksmiths, followed by their annual mean wages, in 2009 were:
The state employing the highest concentration of locksmiths in 2009 was Colorado and the highest-paying was the District of Columbia.
Resources for Locksmiths
These schools offer particularly quick info upon request, and we have written detailed profiles for each (click school names to see the profiles).
Request info from multiple schools, by clicking the Get Info links.
| School | Locations | Degrees | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashworth College | Online | Diploma | |
| Stratford Career Institute | Online | Diploma |
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