What Is A Certified Locksmith? How Do You Obtain A Locksmith Certification?

Consumers are constantly overwhelmed by the amount of choices they’re presented for any given good or service – and they aren’t all of equal quality. Locksmithing isn’t any different. If a potential customer is doing a Google search for a locksmith nearby, they are likely hit with a slew of results between Google My Business, Google Local Services, Google Ads and organic search results. Add to that the fact that they’re likely stressed if they’re in a lockout situation – how do they know who to choose for help?

There are many factors for customers to consider when looking for  a locksmith. Finding a credible locksmith should always be at the top of this list, as scammers posing as legitimate locksmiths are commonly found in online results. A great way to filter through search results  is to look for certifications, or a membership with the Associated Locksmiths of America (AOLA). Gaining specific certifications and backing from the AOLA helps professionals build credibility, and helps customers to know  that a business is legitimate.

*Disclaimer: Certifications and licensing are NOT required for locksmiths in every state. So before you spend a lot of time trying to find a licensed locksmith in your area, first do a quick search to check if you live in a licensing state or not.

If you’re not in a licensing state, you can still look for signs of legitimacy on a locksmith’s websites. These would include things like branded trucks and uniforms, association with ALOA, a company name said when you call for service, and more.

If you state does require locksmiths to be licensed, here’s some things to know:

There are a variety of different locksmith certifications. Each one indicates a specific level of training and expertise, ensuring that customers have a trusted professional working with them. Below is a list of basic certifications a locksmith can acquire, along with what the certification entails:

• Registered Locksmith (RL): The certification of RL indicates an individual is an active locksmith that has completed  12 classes (eight hours each) with the ALOA Continuing Education (ACE) program. Registered locksmiths can also gain certification through attending a ALOA Five or Six-Day Basic Locksmithing course, then passing the exam at the end of the course.

• Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL): Certified Registered Locksmiths have completed the training to become an RL, but have also passed  the ten mandatory categories listed by AOLA. Additionally, CRLs have completed training in two specialized AOLA electives of their choice.

• Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL): Certified Professional Locksmiths have gained the status of CRL, but have completed training in an additional twelve elective categories. These locksmiths have advanced knowledge of specialized areas in the field.

• Certified Master Locksmith (CML): Certified Master Locksmiths hold the highest certification in the field. CML status indicates the individual has earned all previous certifications, and has demonstrated proficiency in 90% of the available categories of the Proficiency Registration Program created by the ALOA. These locksmiths have advanced knowledge of almost every area of locksmithing and of electronic security.

When a locksmith gains any – or all – of these certifications, their credibility is boosted. Certifications indicate the locksmith has taken the time to educate themselves on a wide range of locksmithing tactics, and will be able to find the best solution for your specific situation.

Pop-A-Lock is proud to support professional development throughout the Pop-A-Lock organization by providing the highest quality training in conjunction with the Associated Locksmiths of America. All of our locksmiths are encouraged and supported to participate in the internationally recognized certification program produced by ALOA.

As outlined above, the certification process requires the applicant to undergo a series of difficult testing covering the range of Automotive, Commercial, Residential and Industrial locksmith and safe categories. There is a strong emphasis on Life Safety throughout the Certification process in addition to ongoing updates for relevance to the industry.

Pop-A-Lock also provides support to the industry at-large by providing instructors for various ALOA education classes conducted throughout the year as well as providing an instructor for the ALOA ACE certified instructor course.

If your local Pop-A-Lock is located in a state that doesn’t require licensing, you can still trust Pop-A-Lock! We pride ourselves on providing only the best service to our customers. Even in states without legal requirements, Pop-A-Lock locksmiths go through appropriate training to ensure they can provide you with the best, safest and most efficient services.

By contacting Pop-A-Lock, you can rest easy knowing you will receive help from a highly trained technician. Pop-A-Lock is proud to retain one of the largest collections of ALOA certified professionals in the world, as evidenced by the results of over 2 decades of training and testing across North America!

Our locksmithing professionals are friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to help find a solution for your unique needs. Contact us today by calling  (800) POP-A-LOCK or visit our site for a quote today!