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If you need someone who can replace locks and duplicate keys without damaging your doorway, you can always rely on a locksmith.
Although their main service is unlocking vehicles, that is not all.
They can even replace entire locks and ignition switches, getting you out of all sorts of unpleasant situations.
Maybe you have thought of becoming a locksmith yourself and doing these same exact things.
Earn your accredited, affordable Locksmith career diploma online with Penn Foster in as little as 2 months!
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If you are from Michigan and this is a job you can picture yourself in, we have a wealth of information to help you get started.
Steps to Become a Locksmith in Michigan
Currently, only 15 states require a locksmith license, and these do not include Michigan.
According to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a Michigan-based public-private partnership agency, locksmiths in the state are only required to have a license if they are selling merchandise.
However, locksmiths should undergo an apprenticeship, and, if they want to start a business, they will also have to obtain a business license.
You can receive training at locksmith training facilities, usually in major cities, or online.
While one benefit of in-person training is getting a lot of hands-on experience, one perk of online training is being able to study from the comfort of your own home.
Whichever option you choose, you will be setting yourself up for a bright future as a locksmith in Michigan.
After you have completed your training, you can hit the ground running as a locksmith and start earning money right away.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Locksmith in Michigan
As we mentioned earlier, there currently are no licensing requirements to become a locksmith in Michigan.
Although there are locksmith certification exams offered by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA), certification is not required for locksmiths in the state.
However, if you wish to improve your marketability as a locksmith and improve your knowledge and skills in the field, undergoing certification might be beneficial.
Locksmith Programs
Most locksmith training programs in Michigan are offered online.
If you decide to go through online training, you can enjoy benefits like studying from home and at your own pace.
There is not much information on the internet about in-person locksmith training facilities.
However, if you would like some hands-on experience under the guidance of an experienced locksmith, you certainly can undergo a period of apprenticeship.
You will just need to inquire with locksmiths in your area and find out which ones offer apprenticeship programs.
“Apprenticing” as a locksmith can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on how much time you are committing and what skills you possess.
Here are some locksmith training programs for you to consider:
- Clinton Township Locksmith Training – This training provider offers in-person and online training programs, according to its website. Although start-up training costs are free, it appears that you have to pay for the program. You have to call the number provided on the site to find out the cost. The website says that the training, which is for both beginners and experts alike, takes between one and five weeks.
- Ashworth College – There are no online training programs in Michigan to be found. However, Ashworth College, based in Georgia, offers a Career Diploma in Locksmithing, which locksmiths in Michigan can obtain. According to the website, the program costs $749 to $999, depending on your payment arrangement.
- Penn Foster – As another online option, Penn Foster’s Locksmith & Home Security Technician program provides “flexible online classes” that allow you to gain industry knowledge at a pace that works for you. Tuition ranges from $749 (paid in full) to $925 (monthly mail pay plan).
Salary
Locksmiths in Michigan make an average salary of $54,188 (as of January 27, 2022), with a range falling between $47,010 and $61,090.
The salary depends on many factors, such as your city, experience, and skill set.
Those who are based in Detroit and have at least ten years of locksmithing experience, for example, will earn substantially more than those who work in small towns and have only a couple of years of experience.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Detroit | $55,070 |
| Grand Rapids | $52,509 |
| Warren | $55,070 |
| Flint | $50,470 |
| Sterling Heights | $54,897 |
| Lansing | $52,412 |
| Ann Arbor | $55,872 |
| Livonia | $54,897 |
| Dearborn | $55,070 |
| Westland | $55,255 |
Regional Salary in Michigan
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | 100 | $52,680 | $25.33 | $71,480 | $27,480 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a locksmith in Michigan?
Michigan may not require licensing or certification to become a locksmith, but you would definitely benefit from locksmith training/an apprenticeship under an expert locksmith.
Although locksmithing is poorly regulated in Michigan and many people can just call themselves “locksmiths,” it actually takes years to perfect the craft.
If you are starting from scratch, you can expect to take about two to three years of training and hands-on experience before becoming a truly competent locksmith.
How does the locksmith salary in Michigan compare with the US average salary for locksmiths?
The salaries are very, very similar.
The US average salary for locksmiths is $54,145, with a range between $46,973 and $61,041, making it close to Michigan’s average.
Just like in Michigan, locksmiths’ salaries in other states depend on factors like the amount of experience, skill level, and location.
How much do locksmiths charge in Michigan?
According to SortFix, the average cost to hire a locksmith in the state is $160.
The range usually falls somewhere between $52 and $312.
This, too, depends on where you are located and the locksmith’s experience and skills.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Locksmith
Locksmith Training by State