Choosing to be a professional locksmith means being able to help people in moments of panic. For those who have experienced it, getting locked out of your home or car can feel like a desperate situation. The fright that comes with it is amplified when in an unknown area or when kids or pets are involved — and potentially still inside.
Locksmiths are like the silent heroes – just doing what they’ve been trained to do without looking for the extra attention. Though, it sure does feel good when you can offer relief to someone who is in the midst of panic.
What qualifications do you need to be a locksmith? If you are considering this as your career path, here’s what you need to know.
1. Extensive Training
You don’t just start a locksmith position after a week of training. There is no formal education available for locksmiths, but there is an extensive amount of training – both on and off the job. There are online programs and virtual training classes as well as in-person traditional training in certain trade schools.
Most of the training locksmiths receive will come while working on the job thanks to the ability to be hands-on.
2. Experience as an Apprentice
The on-the-job training for a locksmith usually comes in the position of an apprentice. This is a way for you to get real-life experience while under the direction of an expert. It will depend on who you work with, but an apprenticeship usually lasts from 6 months to a couple of years – maybe even longer.
There is a lot to learn and the more experience and training you have, the more successful you will be as a locksmith.
3. Proper Licensing
Some states do require licensing for locksmiths, including Texas. The details of the licensing will vary based on the state. Often a certain level of training is required, as well as passing a background check and certification exam.
4. The Right Characteristics
Anyone can be a great locksmith with the right training and apprenticeship, but it takes the right personal characteristics to both succeed at it and actually enjoy doing it. For instance, you have to have patience. Dealing with those who are upset and frustrated with their current situation can be tough. You can’t be one who gets easily angered or flustered.
You have to have the drive to work. Locksmiths are needed all hours of the day and night. If you are looking for cozy banking hours, this may not be the best fit. And you also should be able to think outside the box and solve tricky puzzles. Not all locks are the same and sometimes getting them open requires a combination of analytics and creativity. Finally, having great social skills can result in great customer service – which is always a plus.
5. High Ethical Standards
You are learning how to open things that are meant to keep people out. Some people may find this information useful for all the wrong reasons. If you want to become a locksmith and help people, it is imperative that you possess a high level of ethical standards – and hold yourself to them.
Texas Premier Locksmith is Always Seeking Future Locksmiths
At Texas Premier Locksmith, we know how important the job is that we do every day. And we want to share our knowledge, training, and experience with those who are going to take this trade into the next generation.
We take pride in helping students and future leaders in the industry – and we even offer a scholarship to make getting an education just a little bit easier.
If you are interested in becoming a locksmith or want to learn more about the services we provide, speak with one of the professional, highly experienced technicians at Texas Premier Locksmith today at 866-948-8188.