Locksmiths are indispensable professionals that most everyone will need one day. No matter where you live, people have locks on their homes, cars, safes, and more that need manual overrides from time to time. If you want to pursue locksmithing as a career, you must first learn the ropes. Here’s how to become a locksmith apprentice.
Determine Your Education Needs
Though every locksmith must learn the basics of their craft, there are other educational opportunities to consider. Many two- and four-year institutions offer security or business management degrees that could intersect with your locksmithing future. A college degree isn’t necessary to become a locksmith—but it’s still worth considering for your vocational trajectory. However, a locksmith course, as the name implies, is essential to become a locksmith. This trade-specific education will equip you with the basics for your future. At the very least, even simply beginning a locksmithing class will improve your chances of finding an apprenticeship.
Network with Local Locksmiths
Local locksmiths are the people you want to know. Whether you’ve met them or not, it’s your job to put your foot in the door and market yourself. Locksmiths are not intimidating people, but you’ll need to network with them to find an apprenticeship. These professionals may not all have the same capacity to take on an apprentice, so be careful about pushing people who’ve declined your offer. When you network, focus on marketing the skills and qualities you currently possess as well as your aspirations for the future. Self-promotion may be awkward, especially with people you’ve just met, but it’s crucial to establish your apprenticeship-finding tenacity. In time, you’ll receive an offer from a locksmith with the details for an apprenticeship. It is then up to you to select who you will work under for the next few years.
Work Toward Certification
Locksmith education and experience is important, but it won’t let you become a locksmith entirely. You must obtain a certification with the Associated Locksmiths of America. This association is the gatekeeper of the locksmithing community and helps regulate the standards and needs of the broader group. Once you’re a Certified Registered Locksmith, you can then take an exam to become a Certified Professional Locksmith. The process may sound arduous, but the right education, practice, and apprenticeship will give you all the preparation you need.
With these steps for how to become a locksmith apprentice, you can decide whether this is the right career path for you. Your professional future is in your hands, so begin practicing today with transparent locks and work your way up to electric lock pick tools. There’s no better way to impress your locksmith teacher than with a few tricks and tools up your sleeve.
