How to Learn Locksmithing
Locksmithing is a high demand career that provides a good income and job security. Locksmiths have a variety of career options, from owning an automotive lockout business to working for a corporate security form. Learning locksmithing is relatively inexpensive and can be done at home.
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Instructions
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Work as an apprentice in a lock shop that offers on the job training. An apprenticeship will give you hands on experience and will allow you to get paid while you learn. Expect to learn about basic and complicated lock types, deadbolts, and key duplication.
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Purchase a computer-based or DVD locksmith training program. Locksmithvideo.com offers a basic CD-ROM locksmithing course for PC's as well as advanced locksmithing tutorials on DVD (see Resources). Locksmith Training Supply offers locksmithing correspondence courses with training DVD's and tools such as pinning tweezers, a professional pick set and practice locks (see Resources).
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Watch the computer or DVD-based locksmithing training course and take notes on basic locks such as pin tumbler locks, rim locks and disk tumbler locks. Practice the techniques using practice locks and picks. Try taking apart an old lock to learn about its inner workings.
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Learn more advanced locksmithing skills at a local community college or technical school. Take courses in automotive locksmithing or key duplication. Don't neglect business courses to learn how to turn your locksmithing skills into a business.
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Become certified. Take the exams offered by the Associated Locksmiths of America to become a registered locksmith, a certified registered locksmith, or a certified master locksmith. Although certification isn't mandatory to work as locksmith, becoming certified may expand your employment options.
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Tips & Warnings
Read the book "The Complete Book of Locks and Locksmithing" by Bill Phillips. Check the Associated Locksmiths of America website to apply for locksmith training scholarships (see Resources).
