Looking to start as a locksmith? Some US states require mandatory certification before issuing licenses. However, it is important that you get yourself certified even if your state does not mandate training.
Across the US, there are several certification systems for locksmiths. There are multiple locksmith schools and state certification exams. Here we will talk about ALOA certifications, which is common across majority of the US.
A certification will help you build trust with your potential customers and help you grow professionally. One of the popular certifications is Associated Locksmiths of America, Inc. (ALOA) locksmith courses.
ALOA Locksmith Certifications
ALOA is a recognized trade association. It provides designation to its members based on their proficiency as locksmiths and safe technicians:
- Registered Locksmith (RL)
- Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL)
- Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL)
- Certified Master Locksmith (CML)
- Safe Technician Designations: Certified Professional SafeTech (CPS) and Certified Master SafeTech (CMST)
- Certified Automotive Locksmith (CAL)
These locksmith certifications are available to all locksmiths and safe technicians. ALOA conducts proficiency tests and evaluations for technical competence of dedicated individuals in automotive locksmithing, general locksmithing, specialty locksmithing, electronic access control, and safe and vault service.
If you want to get certified by ALOA, you will have to pass the locksmith exam conducted by the trade organization. For beginners, it makes sense to attend some locksmith school for better understanding and hands-on experience.
Locksmith Certifications
CRL Level: This is the entry level certification for locksmith professionals. This requires passing the Mandatory Exam as well as 2 elective exams. This grants the certified registered locksmith title.
CPL Level: Once achieving the CRL level, this second step in certification requires passing an additional 12 electives. This gives the certified professional locksmith title.
CML Level: This is the top level of the general locksmithing category. After achieving the CPL certification, this requires passing an additional 9 electives. On passing the exam, the locksmith is designated as a certified master locksmith.
CLL Level: This is locksmith exam for the Licensing Certification for Alabama or Louisiana.
Safe and Vault Certifications
CPS Level: This is the entry level test for Safe and Vault technicians. On passing the exam, you get designated as Certified Professional SafeTech (CPS).
CMST Level: When a safe locksmith wants to upgrade his certification, the CPS level exam should be taken. This is the top level of certification for the Safe and Vault category, and make you Certified Master SafeTech (CMST).
Automotive Locksmith Certifications
CAL Level: For those willing to become certified automotive locksmith, the entry level certification for the Automotive Specialist.
CMAL Level: After attaining the CAL level, this is the top level certification for the Auto Professional. Grants one the designation of master auto locksmith.
Institutional Locksmith Certifications
ICRL Level: This is the entry level certification for locksmith professionals. This requires passing the Mandatory Exam as well as 2 elective exams, Life Safety Code and Basic Electricity.
ICPL Level: Once achieving the CRL level, this second step in certification requires passing an additional 12 electives.
ICML Level: This is the top level of the general locksmithing category. After achieving the CPL certification, this requires passing an additional 9 electives.
CILM Level: This is a credential specifically for the Institutional Lockshop Manager. Candidate must achieve the ICPL level before sitting for this exam.
Electronic Locksmithing Certifications
For certification in access control and electronic security systems, the electronic locksmith certifications are recommended. You might want to provide access control system and surveillance system services.
CEL Level: Entry level certification for the security professional that services the electronic security needs of the public.
CMEL Level: After receiving the CEL credential, this is the highest level certification for the Electronic Locksmith.
Forensic / Investigative Certifications
CFL (Auto, General, Safe/Vault): The CFL testing is by appointment only. There is a list of prerequisites that must be met and approved by the IAIL Advisory Committee before a sitting can be scheduled. The credential requires passing the Mandatory Test for the CFL as well as an
elective specific to the field one wishes to specialize.