How to Become a Locksmith in Delaware

Becoming a locksmith in Delaware is one of the most fulfilling jobs in the world.

A locksmith’s job often involves using problem-solving skills, talent, and modern tools to repair and replace locks to restore security.

Modern locksmiths in Delaware provide 24/7 emergency on-call services that go beyond helping mothers who lock themselves out of the houses or drivers who lock themselves out of their cars.

If you are looking to become a locksmith, Delaware is one of the best places to set up your business and become your own boss.

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Here is everything you need to know to become a locksmith.

Steps to Become a Locksmith in Delaware

If you are interested in becoming a locksmith, consider the following steps. 

Step 1. Understand Your Educational Needs

While you can become a locksmith with a high school degree or GED, we recommend investing in higher education, which helps improve your problem-solving and management skills.

Step 2. Enroll in a Training Program

If you studied a different career, such as accounting, but you are passionate about becoming a locksmith, you can do so by enrolling in a locksmith training program.

Check the available locksmith programs in your local area.

These are usually found at vocational schools and colleges in Delaware, such as the Delaware Technical Community College.

Your training mainly involves assessment and hands-on training and takes several months or years, depending on the institution.

During your training, ensure you know all the tools used for cutting keys, safety regulations, and different key cutting methods.

Step 3. Consider Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship is one of the best ways to jumpstart your locksmithing career as it involves working with professional locksmiths.

Some apprenticeships can give you a paid position, while others simply offer experience.

You can also consider checking out some of the best locksmiths in your area and request mentorship to get comprehensive training.

Step 4. Work with a Local Locksmith Company

Whether you look forward to working independently or in a company after your program, it is critical to work for or with an established locksmith company to understand business operations and administrative tasks, to help develop your skills.

If you wish to branch out independently, it is even more vital to work for one or two years.

Unlike most states, Delaware does not require you to work for several years under an existing locksmiths company to be allowed to operate your own locksmith business.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Locksmith in Delaware

Becoming a locksmith in Delaware takes a relatively short time (not more than two years), making it a great return on investment.

Delaware is also one of the 35 states that do not require locksmiths to have a license to begin working professionally.

Locksmith Programs Available in Delaware

Modern locksmith training integrates technology to help locksmith students be more valuable to companies looking to protect their business through advanced security systems.

Most schools offer locksmith programs online, but you can still find institutions that provide one-on-one training.

Locksmith Program Duration

Some of the programs take as little as three months to learn the basic skills such as deadbolts, unlocking padlocks, and combination locks, while others take a year or more.

If you already know a few basics, you can complete your course in less than six months.

If you want to be an all-around locksmith, it is critical to choose a program that includes training for biometric scanners, keyless locks and entry systems, and security cameras.

This type of training can take between nine months to two years, depending on your speed.

Skills

Some of the locksmith skills you will come across include:

• Key identification and lock mechanisms
• Electronic security
• Commercial and residential security
• Panic hardware and electric locks
• House locks and key making

Schools

Most locksmith training programs are offered online.

Some of the schools providing locksmith training programs include:

Penn Foster Career School

With over 13 million students, Penn Foster is one of the world’s largest distance learning institutions.

They offer one of the best locksmith training programs in Delaware and across the US.

You will earn your professional blacksmithing career diploma regionally and nationally accredited at Penn Foster Career School.

Locksmith School 4U

Operates entirely online and covers everything you need to know to become a professional locksmith.

You will learn everything from repairing and replacing damaged doors and window locks to assisting clients in unlocking houses and car doors.

They also train you how to open combination safes and change the combination according to the client’s needs.

Stratford Career Institute

Provides a comprehensive and affordable locksmith program.

Students learn from experienced instructors and can complete the coursework in as few as six months.

Cost

The average cost of a locksmith program ranges from $400 to $3,000, depending on the comprehensiveness of the course.

Remember, Delaware is one of the best states to start a career in locksmithing and the second best state in terms of salary, according to Zippia.

Locksmith Salary in Delaware

The average locksmith salary in Delaware ranges between $49, 956 and $64,912 per year.

Salaries vary widely depending on factors such as your years of experience, education, special skills, and the type of company you work with.

Locksmith Training by State