FAQ
Locksmith FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a locksmith.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a locksmith: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about locksmiths
Do locksmiths need a license?
Some states require one.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects decline, though access control grows.
Can I work for myself?
Many locksmiths do.
How much does a locksmith make?
The median annual wage for locksmiths was $51,320 ($24.68 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,530 and the highest 10% earned more than $79,400.
How long does it take to become a locksmith?
Most people need about Months to years of training of training. A high school diploma and long-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a locksmith?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Is locksmith a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -11.7% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 1,200 openings each year. Upsides include can be self-employed; a common challenge is that declining overall.
What skills does a locksmith need?
Key technical skills include lock installation, rekeying, key cutting, and lockout opening. Employers also value integrity, problem-solving, and customer service.
What certifications are available for locksmiths?
Common credentials include ALOA certifications, State locksmith license, Safe technician certification, and Access control training. Some states require locksmiths to be licensed and pass background checks.
Still deciding?
Try the Locksmith fit quiz, compare with Garage Door Technician, or explore Locksmith training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9094 (Locksmiths and safe repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Locksmiths and safe repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.