A locksmith is a person who installs, repairs and maintains locks and security systems. Locksmiths can work on various types of locks, such as door locks, car locks, safes, padlocks, and electronic locks. Locksmiths can also provide services such as key cutting, lock picking, rekeying, and emergency lockout assistance. For those who aspire to become a professional locksmith, this article will guide you on how to become a locksmith in Missouri.
Locksmithing is a valuable skill because it can help people secure their homes, businesses, and vehicles. Locksmiths can also help people in situations where they lose their keys, forget their combinations, or get locked out of their premises. Locksmiths can also offer advice on the best types of locks and security systems for different needs and preferences.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for locksmiths is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for locksmiths was $43,210 in May 2020. In Missouri, the average annual salary for locksmiths was $40,980 in May 2020.
The main purpose of this article is to provide you with information and guidance on how to become a locksmith in Missouri. Let’s dive into this article and explore the locksmith profession.
Requirements and Qualifications
If you are curious about how to become a locksmith in Missouri, first of all you must know the requirements. To become a locksmith in Missouri, you need to meet the following minimum requirements and qualifications:
i). You have reached the age of majority (18 years or older)
ii). You have completed your secondary education or obtained an equivalent certification.
iii). You must pass a criminal background check and register with the Missouri Department of Public Safety
iv). You must complete a locksmith training program or apprenticeship that covers the basics of locksmithing, such as lock types, lock mechanisms, key making, lock installation, lock repair, lock picking, and security systems.
v). You must have the necessary tools and equipment to perform locksmith services, such as key blanks, key machines, lock picks, drills, wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers.
Optional Certifications and Licenses: A Smart Investment to become a locksmith:
I). The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) offers various levels of certification for locksmiths, ranging from Registered Locksmith (RL) to Certified Master Locksmith (CML). These certifications require passing written and practical exams that demonstrate your knowledge and skills in locksmithing.
II). The Safe and Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA) offers certifications for locksmiths who specialize in safes and vaults, such as Certified Professional Safe Technician (CPST) and Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST). These certifications require passing written and practical exams that demonstrate your expertise in safe and vault servicing.
III). The Missouri Division of Professional Registration issues licenses for locksmiths who want to install, service, or maintain electronic security systems, such as alarms, cameras, and access control systems. These licenses require passing an exam and paying a fee.
To be a good locksmith, you should also have the following skills and qualities:
- Technical and mechanical skills: You should be able to work with various types of locks and security systems, and use the appropriate tools and techniques to install, repair, and maintain them.
- Problem-solving skills: You should be able to diagnose and fix problems with locks and security systems and find solutions for customers who are locked out or need new keys.
- Customer service skills: You should be able to communicate effectively with customers, listen to their needs and preferences. You must provide them with quality service and satisfaction.
- Honesty and integrity: You should be trustworthy and ethical and respect the privacy and property of your customers.
Steps to Become a Locksmith in Missouri
To become a locksmith in Missouri, you need to follow these main steps:
Step 1:
Complete a locksmith training program or apprenticeship: You can enol in a locksmith training program offered by a vocational school, community college, or online provider. These programs typically last from a few weeks to a few months and cover the theory and practice of locksmithing. Alternatively, you can find a locksmith who is willing to take you as an apprentice and learn from their experience and guidance. Apprenticeships usually last from one to three years and involve working under the supervision of a licensed locksmith.
Step2:
Pass a background check and register with the state: You need to submit your fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. You also need to register with the Missouri Department of Public Safety as a locksmith and pay a registration fee of $35. You need to renew your registration every two years and notify the department of any changes in your name, address, or employment.
Step 3:
Find a job or start a business as a locksmith: You can look for job opportunities as a locksmith in various settings, such as locksmith shops, hardware stores, security companies, or locksmith associations. You can also start your own locksmith business, and advertise your services online, in local directories, or by word-of-mouth. You need to comply with the local, state, and federal laws and regulations that apply to your locksmith business, such as taxes, insurance, and licensing.
Step 4:
Continue education and stay updated: You should keep learning and improving your locksmith skills and knowledge, by taking courses, attending workshops, reading books and magazines, or joining online forums and groups. You should also stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the locksmith industry, such as smart locks, biometric locks, and wireless security systems.
Benefits and Challenges of Being a Locksmith in Missouri
Being a locksmith in Missouri has its benefits and challenges. We will discuss the benefits and challenges in this article.
Benefits:
Flexible and independence:
You can choose your working hours and days and decide how much work you want to take on. You can also work independently or with a team, depending on your preference and situation.
Variety and opportunities:
You can work on different types of locks and security systems, and provide various services to different customers, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or automotive. You can also expand your services to include other related fields, such as carpentry, welding, or electronics.
Satisfaction and solving problems:
You can help people secure their properties and belongings and assist them in emergencies or inconveniences. You can also use your creativity and ingenuity to solve problems and challenges that arise in your work.
Challenges:
Here are the challenges, a beginner locksmith has to face.
Competition and liability:
You may face competition from other locksmiths or security companies, who may offer lower prices, better quality, or more services. You may also be liable for any damages or losses that occur as a result of your work, such as faulty locks, broken keys, or compromised security systems.
Physical and mental demands:
You may have to work in harsh or uncomfortable conditions, such as extreme weather, dark or cramped spaces, or noisy or dangerous environments. You may also have to deal with stress, pressure, or frustration, especially when working on complex or urgent tasks, or dealing with difficult or unhappy customers.
Safety and security risks:
You may expose yourself to potential risks or threats, such as injuries, accidents, or infections, from using tools, equipment, or chemicals, or handling locks, keys, or security systems. You may also encounter dishonest or hostile customers, who may try to scam, rob, or harm you.
Video Guidance
Here is a video guidance to know how to become a locksmith in Missouri. Let’s discover and learn more:
Conclusion
To conclude, Missouri locksmiths need to: meet the criteria, get trained and registered, find work or start a business, and keep learning. Being a locksmith in Missouri has its benefits and challenges, such as flexible schedule and independence, satisfaction of helping people and solving problems, and safety and security risks.
If you are interested in becoming a locksmith in Missouri, or if you need a locksmith service in Missouri. We recommend you contact Patriot Locksmith Service, a trusted and experienced locksmith company in Missouri. Patriot Locksmith Service offers a wide range of locksmith services, such as lock installation, lock repair, lock rekeying and many more. Patriot Locksmith Service has a team of licensed, certified, and insured locksmiths. Team members are trained and equipped to handle any locksmith task, big or small. Patriot Locksmith Service also provides 24/7 emergency service, fast response time, affordable prices, and a customer satisfaction guarantee.