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The certification requirements for locksmiths differ depending on the state and country that you’re in. Go online and look for the requirements where you live. Search on your state government’s official website to ensure that you’re looking at the legal requirements and not a private business’s advice on how to get certified.  The certification process can take 1-6 weeks depending on where you live. In some states, the Department of Consumer Affairs is in charge of locksmithing licensure. In other states, the business bureau regulates locksmith certification. In many states, vocational schools are allowed to certify students that graduate. The shorter 5-20 week classes are rarely allowed to give certifications, though. Some states and countries have no certification requirements for locksmiths. In these states, anyone can work for a locksmith. Almost all locksmith applications are completed online. Once you find the government page where you can apply for a locksmithing certification, click the link on the page to begin an individual license application. Enter your name, address, and other personal information to begin your application.  You can also call your local government’s consumer affairs line to find out where you can apply for a locksmith certification. You will typically upload each of your required documents to an online portal. In some states, you may need to mail these documents in. Scan a copy of your passport and state ID to prove that you are who you say you are. Then, provide copies of your employment history and any other required documents that you need to submit. This usually includes other work permits, certifications, and child support documents. Most states list the documents that they require on their website. Since locksmiths have the ability to disassemble complex security systems, complete a background check as mandated by your state. In some states, this can be completed online by uploading your state ID and entering your personal information. In other states, go to a private testing facility and have your fingerprints taken to confirm that your background is clean. Depending on where you live, you may still be able to apply for a locksmith certification even if you do have a criminal history so long as you didn’t commit a felony or violent crime. If you graduated from a vocational school, submit a copy of your degree and transcripts. If you attended a shorter class that took place over the course of a few weeks, submit the letters of recommendation that the class provided you upon completion. This demonstrates that you have a familiarity with the trade and will not require precursory training to begin working on locks. In the states where you do not need certification, you’ll still have a pretty hard time finding a locksmith position without completing vocational school or a locksmithing class. Once all of your documents have been submitted, press the “Complete” or “Submit” button to finish uploading your portfolio. You will be taken to a payment page to pay the fee associated with your application. Then, wait 1-6 weeks for the government to mail or email you your certification.  The application for your locksmith certification typically costs $50-300. It may take a little longer for the government to process your application if they have a large backlog of applications. In some areas, a locksmith license must be paired with an independent contractor’s license. If you don’t already have a contractor’s license, you’ll need to submit a separate application and pay an additional fee. Renew your license every 1-5 years by paying the renewal fee.
Look online to find the requirements for certification where you live. Submit an individual license application to begin the process. Send a copy of your identification and any additional paperwork. Complete a background check online or at a testing facility. Prove that you are qualified by providing supporting documents. Pay the required fees and wait for your certification.