You need to hire a locksmith, but you don’t know what certifications they should have.
When it comes to hiring a locksmith, most people just look for the cheapest option available. But this can lead to problems! Cheap locksmiths might not be licensed or insured and may not offer the best service.
There are many different types of locksmith certifications that can be obtained. If you’re interested in learning more about the requirements, keep reading! We’ll go over some of the most common ones and explain what they mean for your career.
What Certifications Do Locksmiths Need to Get?
- The first certification is a Master Locksmith Certification, which requires at least three years of experience as a journeyman locksmith before applying. You must also pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive this designation. This type of certification is considered one of the highest levels within the industry and shows employers that you have extensive knowledge on all aspects related to lock systems and security hardware products. It also demonstrates your commitment to continuing education throughout your career by attending seminars, workshops, conferences, and other training opportunities available through professional associations such as ALOA (Associated Locksmiths Of America).
In addition to being able to work independently without supervision from another master locksmith, it allows you access to restricted areas where only certified professionals may enter. This includes places like data centers, government buildings, and military installations just to name a few examples.
- A second option would be becoming an Advanced Certified Locksmith (ACL), which requires at least two years of experience as a journeyman locksmith before applying along with passing an exam with a score between 70-79%. This type of certification will allow you to work independently without supervision from a master locksmith.
- A third certification is a Certified Locksmith Certification, which requires at least two years of experience as a journeyman locksmith before applying along with passing an exam with a score between 60-69%. This type of certification will allow you to work independently without supervision from a master locksmith. These are just some examples of certificates that can be obtained in order to get started working in the locksmith industry.
There are others available depending on your career goals and interests. The most common ones include:
- ACMA, ACLS, ALOA CML, AML/CTRL Certification, Association of Specialized & Professional Locksmiths (ASP), Certified Protection Professional (CPP), IAPMO UPC Chapter, Key Control Institute of America (KCIA), Master Locksmith Certification, NW Safe Dealers Association Certification, Security Industry Alarm Coalition – Central Station Operator, SFPE Certified Fire Service Member
To get more information on these certifications or any other locksmith certification available visit the websites provided above.
You can also contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if they are aware of any locksmith scams in your area. It is always good to do some research before hiring a company. That way you know for sure that you’re getting the best service!
Each locksmith at King Locksmiths has years of experience in the industry and is licensed by the State of Maryland to work on residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites. By choosing a qualified locksmith you can be sure that the job will be done properly and in a timely manner.
Every locksmith must have ALOA certification to work for King Locksmiths, but even locksmiths outside of our company can receive benefits from being certified by this professional trade association.
FAQs about What Certifications Do Locksmiths Need to Get?
What is a locksmith?
A locksmith is someone who specializes in the installation, repair, replacement, or opening of locks for residential homes and businesses. In addition to serving customers with lock problems they also offer services such as making keys and rekeying locks.
What certifications do locksmiths need to get?
Locksmiths must be members of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) in order to work legally. These professionals need to receive certification for each type of job they handle including installation, repair, replacement, and rekeying. This means that no matter what sort of problem you are facing with your locks, a locksmith will be able to fix it or replace it quickly without any problems.
Where can I find a certified locksmith near me?
The best place to start is by checking out Kinglocksmiths’ directory of highly-qualified technicians who offer their services throughout Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We also give you the option of searching for a locksmith near the location of your home, office, or car so you can get in touch with them directly to schedule an appointment.
What is an ALOA certification?
ALOA offers training and certification exams that allow locksmiths to demonstrate their knowledge in specific areas of the trade. These include lock installation, repair, replacement, key cutting, and more.
How much does it cost to become certified in locksmithing?
The fee for ALOA certification is $150 (and another $150 every three years for renewal). All fees are paid directly to ALOA. King Locksmiths is not involved with this process nor do we receive any money from these payments; we simply offer these locksmiths on our directory because we know they are highly qualified.
How does one become an ALOA locksmith?
Locksmiths wishing to join ALOA must first complete 60 hours of education and pass an exam that will prove their knowledge. These courses cover topics such as lock types, hardware installation, safes, cylinders, history of locks, key profiling machines, security systems, and more.
Once course requirements have been met you can contact the ALOA office directly to register for the exam that is set up at a testing facility in your area (this does cost additional fees). Once the appropriate tests have been passed you will need to complete an application and pay the $150 joining fee. You will then be able to use your ALOA membership as a form of identification when working as a locksmith, as well as take advantage of other benefits such as networking opportunities and business advice.
Are locksmith certifications recognized by the state?
When you hire a locksmith he or she needs to produce their certification in order to prove that they are qualified for the job. If you’re talking with someone who has not received ALOA certification (or any other locksmithing degree) then it is recommended that you don’t do business with them because there’s no way to know whether or not they are up-to-date on locksmithing advancements or even if they have a valid license!
ALOA is the only industry association that provides locksmiths with training and certification, meaning their locksmiths are highly trained and trustworthy. In addition to certifications, these technicians must renew their membership every three years in order to continue practicing legally, adding an extra element of security for you as a customer. As long as you’re hiring from Kinglocksmiths’ directory you can rest easy knowing that all our technicians have been certified by the ALOA organization and will provide excellent service on any lock or key problem you might be facing.
What certifications do locksmiths need in Maryland?
King Locksmiths offers only ALOA-certified technicians on its directory so you can rest easy knowing that your local locksmith will be highly trained, qualified, and licensed. Many other companies offer non-certified locksmiths for cheap prices but Kinglocksmiths understands that reliability and quality service come at a price; our rates match or exceed those of competitors without compromising on quality.
Locksmith certification is available to locksmiths in Maryland and is recognized by the state government.
How to recognize a certified locksmith?
You can recognize a locksmith who is ALOA-certified by looking for the ‘ALOA’ logo.
Which states recognize locksmith certification?
To be recognized in most states locksmiths must have passed the ALOA certification exam. This is the only nationally-recognized locksmithing certification available today, meaning that state governments will accept this as proof of training and knowledge when approving locksmith licenses.
Do locksmiths get fined if they are not certified and/or licensed?
Locksmiths who are not certified or licensed may face fines if they perform work without the appropriate credentials. This means that it is important to only hire locksmiths who are certified and have the appropriate licenses. King Locksmiths offers only ALOA-certified technicians on its directory, so you can rest easy knowing that your local locksmith will be highly trained and qualified.
Do you need to hire a certified locksmith?
King Locksmith & Doors, Inc. is the best locksmith company in the area! We offer 24/7 emergency services for all your lock and key needs. From residential to commercial, we have you covered. Our technicians are certified by ALOA (American Locksmiths On-Line Association) and will provide excellent service on any lock or key problem you might be facing.
You can recognize a locksmith who is ALOA-certified by looking for the ‘ALOA’ logo. As long as you’re hiring from Kinglocksmiths’ directory you can rest easy knowing that all our technicians have been certified by the ALOA organization and will provide excellent service on any lock or key problem you might be facing.
Call us now if you need a certified locksmith!
