Professional Locksmith Certification
The Occupational Information Network predicts that the demand for locksmiths will increase by 7 to 13 percent from 2008 through 2018. Although certification isn't mandatory to work in the field, professional locksmiths have the option to pursue voluntary certification through the Associated Locksmiths of America. Earning professional locksmith certification can increase locksmiths' employment opportunities or earning potentials.
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Exams
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All types of certification offered through the Associated Locksmiths of America, or ALOA, require students to complete 10 mandatory tests, the topics of which are codes and code equipment; cylinder servicing; key blank identification; key duplication; key impressioning; professional lock-opening techniques; lockset functions; lockset servicing; basic master keying; and cabinet, furniture and mailbox locks. These 10 tests are combined in a 250-question booklet. An additional 26 elective tests are also written by the ALOA on topics such as door closers, alarms and safe deposit locks.
Types of Certification
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The ALOA features three primary levels of locksmith certification. The Certified Registered Locksmith, or CRL, is the introductory level. To qualify for this designation, professionals must pass two elective examinations as well as the mandatory test packet. After earning the CRL designation, locksmiths can reach the Certified Professional Locksmith, or CPL, level by passing 12 additional elective tests. The Certified Master Locksmith, or CML, is the final certification. Pursued after the CPL, it requires locksmiths to pass 10 more elective exams so that they've successfully taken 90 percent of all of the examinations offered through the ALOA.
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Training
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The Associated Locksmiths of America offers training courses that can help locksmiths prepare for certification. Classroom-based courses are offered at the organization's convention, which is held in a different location annually. Classes are also given at an association-owned facility in Dallas, Texas, and at privately owned locations throughout the United States. Additionally, locksmiths can complete online courses through the ALOA and purchase instructional manuals and videos from the group.
Other Features
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After receiving a certification from the Associated Locksmiths of America, locksmiths must recertify or renew their designations every three years. To qualify for renewal, certified locksmiths must complete continuing-education courses. The ALOA offers these courses but also accepts classes offered through other nonprofit organizations or accredited post-secondary institutions. Certification candidates must pay a fee to apply for initial credentialing and for each recertification. Locksmiths who also install and service safes can seek additional certifications in the field from the ALOA. Like locksmith certifications, these credentials require professionals to pass written examinations.
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