When it comes to locksmithing, it is essential to hire a true professional. This means going with a locksmith who is both certified and licensed. Unfortunately, many people will hire someone they think has the right qualifications for performing the job only to face major problems because of poor qualify work.
To become a certified and licensed locksmith takes dedication and a lot of hard work. This individual completes specialized courses and gains experience while on the job. To better understand and appreciate the work that a certified and licensed locksmith offers, consider the type of training provided.
Professional Training
Because of the time, energy, and curriculum involved, anyone interested in becoming a licensed and certified locksmith needs to be fully committed to the process. However, once training is complete, this individual will have all the skills required to perform not just basic but also more complex locksmithing services.
Of course, a locksmith can continue his or her education to gain an even greater level of skill. Some people interested in becoming a master locksmith will spend years learning all the tricks of the trade and honing skills; in the end, it pays off in the way of happy customers, job stability, and a lucrative income.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
Keep in mind that licensing is not mandated by all states for locksmiths, so anyone interested in this field of work will first need to determine if this is in fact required. In addition, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, pass a certification examination when required, have a clean criminal history, and obtain a business license.
Specific Curriculum
For locksmith training, a person has many different options, including vocational school, colleges, and accredited organizations. In fact, training can also be completed through a number of online programs. Because of this, the exact curriculum as part of training will vary to some degree. Examples of what to expect when learning to become a locksmith include:
- Introduction to Locks and Keys
- Practical Exercise
- Lock Mechanisms
- Unit Materials
- Key Making and Rekeying
- Home and Business Security
- Automotive Locks
- Panic Hardware and Electric Locks
- Safes and Vaults
For example, an individual will perform hands-on training that includes things like duplicating keys using both hand and machine methods and installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining door, auto, and window locks, as well as safes, vaults, panic hardware, and security devices.
Other hands-on training covers methods of opening locks without the use of keys, electronic security and the right way to design and program alarm system programs, and more. In addition to this curriculum, a locksmith in training will learn better eye-hand coordination, which is imperative for this industry; learn the importance of checking things twice; and gain confidence in finding solutions to complex problems.
With the right level of training, a person will have all the knowledge needed for an exciting and successful career. By completing additional training, even more opportunities will open up.