Complete Online Locksmith Course

One of the great benefits of learning to be a locksmith is that it is a future-proof venture. Sure lock types vary and who knows exactly what the future will hold regarding locking mechanism innovation, but it is pretty safe to say we will always need traditional locks to be made and defeated by the traditional way of a locksmith, in some form or another. This is why it represents a solid business to consider.

The first thing you’ll need to think about is what method you will use in order to learn this trade. True, you may have someone who can teach you, a good book, or of course a wealth of online videos on YouTube, etc, at your disposal. But it is important to note that most countries require the completion of a training course or an apprenticeship to move forward with locksmithing. In some countries, a full diploma from an engineering course will be needed, but others a  training certificate will be enough. Check the requirements where you live.

A large number of locksmiths will also be able to work on various types of door hardware too, not just the locking systems, such as door closers, door hinges, electric strikes and frame repairs. With this in mind, you would be able to open yourself up to provide more work, and perhaps be able to complete more odd jobs here and there, on a freelance level, for example in between the main contracts and the larger tasks. Locksmiths may also offer to help clients choose locks for their home or business, as well as cutting keys for locks. As a locksmith, you could attend call outs to help someone who has been locked out of their home or business. Part of the challenge when attending to these kinds of situations will be trying to defeat the lock without actually breaking the owner’s lock!

You know that you want to be a locksmith but where do you want your work to be based at? What field? This is a skill that can be used to get a job in a number of different areas that include becoming  a master key system specialist, a safe technician, an automotive lock specialist, working from a storefront (in a commercial compacity), mobile (working out of a vehicle), working for a institution, working as a security consultant, or even as a forensic locksmith, there are many options.

Now, usually, locksmiths hold a certificate regarding their particular area of skill. Furthermore, they will usually be graded a level in relation to that skill, which may be used as a reference point for those looking to hire a locksmith. Some locksmiths may also hold certificates of completion of training courses, however, certifications from manufacturers or locksmith associations are usually regarded as more valid criteria in determining skill levels. Titles are something to watch out for, in that locksmiths do often call themselves “Master Locksmiths” even if they are not actually fully trained. Of course, it is always best that you use the title that best represents what you can do, so you can get your business off to an honest start! Keep in mind that clients would likely want to see your credentials before hiring you.

So, how long will it take you to be trained up as a locksmith? It can take several months for the completion of a locksmith training course. On average, a course will take between two to four months. Then you have on-the-job training which will add additional months or even years. If you decide to take up an apprenticeship, these typically last between two and three years.Don’t forget, as well as the theory, this kind of work needs plenty of practice on the physical, and you might want to attend a classroom that offers you the chance to practice the skills, or when training as an apprentice you’ll also be given this chance. Furthermore, some online courses will provide you with tools to follow along examples for some hands-on experience

Right, so here is something that does not relate to the physical skill of a locksmith, but is something that you do need to seriously consider, as an ethical matter. Have you heard of the term ‘full disclosure’ within the locksmithing industry? This is used to describe the debate over whether or not a weakness in a lock should be kept a secret within the locksmithing community. I am sure you can understand why this is something important to ponder over, if such information got in to the wrong hands! Essentially, you will have to make up your own mind on the issue, but it is worth reading up on each side of the argument.

You may be wondering how much you can expect to earn as a locksmith. As I am sure you can appreciate, this will vary due to a number of factors such as what country you are based in, what type of clients are you working for (for example individuals or large organisations) and the nature of the actual work (some jobs will be much larger than others, therefore justifying a larger payment). If you were working as an employee for one company only, you can expect to start off at minimum wage, which should increase over time. However, if you are looking to start your own business, then, of course, you have the benefit of un-capped earnings, you just need to be spreading your name, building up a good reputation and building a good clients list.

Lastly, if you are serious in beginning your career as a locksmith you will, of course, need some tools to carry out your duties. Like any trade, there will be some models and manufacturers of tools that are better than others, so it is well worth doing your research to discover the industry standards. Regardless, there will be a required set of tools needed to help cover whatever instances may arise whilst locksmithing. You will likely want to purchase your tools sooner of later once you know you are serious about this career, as you will be needing a set of tools to carry out your training. Whilst some training sessions may provide tools, for example, if you are working as an apprenticeship, many will not, and if you are taking on one of the helpful online courses that are available, there is a good chance you’ll need to purchase some tools for that purpose. Although this will be included in the teachings, you can go ahead and familiarise yourself with what tools will be needed and how they will be used to get ahead of the game.