Locksmith
Lock installation, rekeying, and security systems
Wages & Job Outlook
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024) and Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024–34 projections.
Work-Life & Stability
Overview
Locksmiths install, repair, and open locks, safes, and security systems. Many states require licensing. The trade is increasingly incorporating electronic access control and smart lock technology.
Day in the Life
Morning: commercial rekeying job at office building. Afternoon: emergency residential lockout call. Late afternoon: automotive lockout and key programming. Evening: estimate for access control system upgrade at apartment complex. Update scheduling software.
How to Get Started
On-the-Job Training
on-the-jobMany locksmiths apprentice with established locksmith shops before going independent
Trade School / Vocational Program
trade-schoolLocksmith technology programs at vocational schools and online providers
Certification-First
certification-firstALOA certification (Registered Locksmith, Certified Locksmith, etc.) validates competency
How to Pay for Your Training
Multiple funding programs can offset or eliminate the cost of training. Here are the most commonly applicable ones.
Career Ladder
Locksmith Helper
Assists with jobs, learns key cutting and basic lock work
Locksmith Apprentice
Handles routine lockouts and rekeying under supervision
Licensed Locksmith
Works independently on residential, commercial, and automotive
Master Locksmith
Handles safes, high-security systems, access control
Locksmith Business Owner
Owns locksmith shop or mobile service operation
Licensing by State
| State | Required? | License type | Issuing body |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA | Yes | Locksmith Company License (LCO) | California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) |
| TX | Yes | Locksmith Company License / Locksmith (Private Security) | Texas DPS - Private Security Bureau (PSB) |
| FL | No | – | – |
| NY | No | – | – |
| IL | Yes | Locksmith License (Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004) | Illinois Dept. of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) |
| PA | No | – | – |
| OH | No | – | – |
| GA | No | – | – |
| NC | Yes | Locksmith License (Locksmith Licensing Act, Ch. 74F) | North Carolina Locksmith Licensing Board (NCLLB) |
| MI | No | – | – |
| WA | No | – | – |
| AZ | No | – | – |
| VA | Yes | Locksmith Registration (Private Security Services) | Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) |
| NJ | Yes | Locksmith License (P.L. 1997, c.305) | Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm and Locksmith Advisory Committee (NJ Division of Consumer Affairs / Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors) |
| TN | No | – | – |
Time to Enter
Wages (BLS 2024)
BLS OEWS May 2024. Wages vary by state and employer.
Own a locksmith business?
Provisional · 1 sourceWhat it's worth today — the starting point for weighing any exit.
Provisional — a single citable source so far; treat as directional until we add a second.
Ways out for locksmith owners
Compare all →Industry Associations
- ALOA
Physical Requirements
- Fine motor dexterity
- Driving service vehicle constantly
- Occasional heavy safe work
- Working in awkward positions