Article: Locksmiths are contractors that make, install, or repair locks. It is a reliable career path and is quite fun if you enjoy working with your hands to solve complex problems. Many locksmiths compare the job to solving puzzles, since it is an intellectually-stimulating job that requires a lot of critical thinking. You must be at least 18 years old and have a clean criminal history if you're going to become a locksmith. The process of becoming a locksmith can take anywhere from 3 months to 2 years depending on how much training you pursue and what the requirements are where you live. To become a qualified locksmith, you must have a high school diploma. Sign up for a GED class in your area and complete the coursework if you never finished high school. Then, take the final exam to pass the class and earn your certificate. It may be easier to find a job if you have a college degree, but you'll still need to become certified. GED stands for General Education Development. In most trades, it fulfills the requirement of a high school degree. A vocational school is a post-secondary educational program that trains students how to perform a trade. After getting your GED or high school diploma, look online to find a vocational school near you with a locksmith program. Sign up, pay the tuition, and enroll in your classes. Spend the next 1-2 years learning about the construction, repair, and installation of locks. Locksmithing programs typically cover other security issues as well, such as surveillance, theft deterrence, and electronic locks. Vocational school usually costs somewhere between $10,000 and $30,000. This is the most time-consuming way to become qualified, but you'll get an extremely thorough understanding of the field. Most vocational schools help you get certified and find work after you graduate as well. If you live in a state that doesn't require certification, vocational schools will typically award you with an accreditation that will make it easier for you to find work. Locksmithing classes are typically hosted by private companies or locksmithing businesses. Look online to find a class near you if you want to learn the craft and become qualified without spending a ton of time and money on a vocational degree. These classes are typically very intensive, and will focus specifically on doors and home locks. These classes typically take 5-20 weeks to complete and may have a test at the end. If you complete a certified lockpicking course, you will be awarded a letter of recommendation demonstrating that you've completed their coursework. This will help you get certified in most states. Locksmithing requires hands-on experience, and there are a lot of disreputable online programs. Sign up for an in-person class if you can.
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Become a locksmith if you enjoy working with your hands and solving puzzles. Earn a high school diploma or get your GED. Attend vocational school if you want formal training in the field. Sign up for a locksmith class for a faster way to learn the craft.