Updated 2025 · Specialty
How to Become a Locksmith
Locksmiths install, repair, and adjust locks and other security devices in homes, businesses, and vehicles. They also cut keys and open locks for customers who are locked out.
Steps to Become a Locksmith
- Meet basic requirements — You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. A strong foundation in math, physics, and shop classes helps.
- Apply to an apprenticeship program — Locksmith apprenticeships last 4 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apply through your local union (IBEW, UA, etc.) or a non-union contractor program. You earn while you learn from day one.
- Complete required training — Complete 8000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Earn certifications — Required certifications include: ALOA Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL), State locksmith license (where required), Safe technician certification.
- Pass the journeyman exam — After completing your apprenticeship, pass the journeyman licensing exam in your state to earn full journeyman status and pay.
What Does a Locksmith Do?
Locksmiths install, repair, and adjust locks and other security devices in homes, businesses, and vehicles. They also cut keys and open locks for customers who are locked out.
Daily Duties
- Install and repair mechanical and electronic locks
- Cut and duplicate keys
- Open locks for locked-out customers
- Install and maintain access control systems
- Rekey locks and master key systems
Skills Needed
- Lock picking and bypass
- Key cutting
- Access control systems
- Safe opening and repair
- Automotive locksmithing
Required Certifications
- ALOA Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL)
- State locksmith license (where required)
- Safe technician certification
Locksmith Salary (2025)
The national median locksmith salary is $49,571 per year. Pay ranges from $39,884 in the lowest-paying metro to $63,899 in the highest-paying metro. See the full locksmith salary breakdown by city.
Apprentice Pay Progression
Locksmith apprentices earn while they learn, starting at approximately 40% of journeyman pay:
| Year | % of Journeyman | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40% | $19,828 |
| Year 2 | 57% | $28,255 |
| Year 3 | 73% | $36,187 |
| Year 4 | 90% | $44,614 |
| Journeyman | 100% | $49,571 |
Union vs Non-Union Locksmith Pay
Union locksmiths earn 10% more than non-union workers — $26.40/hour union vs $24.00/hour non-union. Approximately 5.8% of locksmiths are union members. See the full union vs non-union comparison.
Work Environment
Locksmiths work in shops and at customer locations. Mobile locksmiths travel in service vans. Emergency lockout calls at all hours.
Career Outlook
Steady demand with growth in electronic access control and smart lock installation. Many locksmiths are self-employed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The national median salary for a locksmith is $49,571 per year (2025 BLS data). Pay ranges from $39,884 to $63,899 depending on location, with top earners in the 90th percentile making significantly more.
It takes 4 years to complete a locksmith apprenticeship. During this time, you earn while you learn — starting at approximately 40-50% of journeyman wages and receiving annual raises.
No college degree is required to become a locksmith. The primary path is through an apprenticeship program or trade school. You will need to earn specific certifications: ALOA Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL) and State locksmith license (where required).
Locksmith earns a Trade Pay Score grade of D, meaning it rates moderately on pay relative to cost of living, wage growth, and demand. Steady demand with growth in electronic access control and smart lock installation. Many locksmiths are self-employed.
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