Locksmith has the most important work to do, enable a safe and secure place for people to live and work. The qualifications and skill sets to become a locksmith varies from country to country. Some countries requires an apprenticeship, locksmith-degree or level of formal education to become a locksmith. Besides, degree or apprenticeship, there are certain desired skills that an individual most have to become a locksmith.
Skills Required to Become a Locksmith
There are various skill of a locksmith. First of all, an individual must have carpentry skills or mechanical knowhow. Locksmiths should possess formal education. Adequate communication skills are important for a locksmith, as he has to deal with a customer or over the phone or in-person to understand and solve the problems.
He must have basic math skills which would help him in determining the fees and other monetary charges for the services being offered. The locksmith must have good interpersonal skills since they have to work with all different types of people across society.
At last, locksmith must pay attention to details and should have excellent hand-eye co-ordination.
To become a certified locksmith, requires training and apprenticeships. There are various courses for locksmiths which include diploma/degree/apprenticeship in repairing locks, rekeying, picking locks, safe combination changing etc.
Depending on the country where you live, the period of apprenticeship may vary. Various certifications are awarded such as, Registered Locksmith, Certified Automotive Locksmith and Certified Master Safe Tech.
Certification provide work credibility for locksmiths. Several organizations in the country grant certification courses. In US, the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) administer certification exams and grant valid degree and certifications.
Locksmith Organizations
United States
- Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA)
- International Association of Investigative Locksmiths (IAIL)
- Safe & Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA)
Europe
- Master Locksmiths Association (MLA)
- European Locksmith Federation (ELF)
- Institute of Certified Locksmiths (ICL)
Australia
- Master Locksmiths Association of Australia (MLAA)