How to Become a Locksmith in Hawaii

If you’re thinking about becoming a locksmith in Hawaii, you’ll be happy to know that requirements are pretty low and it doesn’t take much to get started.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some things you need to do to prepare.

This guide provides an overview of the various steps, along with some options for training to help you get a solid foundation.

Steps to Become a Locksmith in Hawaii

Becoming a locksmith is one of the easiest things you can do in Hawaii, as it takes so little to get started.

The following steps are not all required, but they are some of the best for getting a strong start:

1. Get training: The programs below can help.
2. Gain experience: Consider working for a company before branching out on your own.
3. Get a business license: Every business in Hawaii needs one.
4. Make yourself legitimate and trustworthy: You’ll read more about this in the next section.
5. Consider professional certifications: Not required, but you can become a Registered Locksmith, Certified Registered Locksmith, Certified Professional Locksmith, or a Certified Master Locksmith through the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
6. Apply for professional organizations: This is also not required, but joining the ALOA provides many benefits and can help build your business.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Locksmith in Hawaii

Not every state regulates the locksmith industry, and Hawaii is one of them.

There’s no specific license you need to be a locksmith, though you will need a business license if you start your own company.

While this creates a very small entry barrier, there are some considerations.

Since there are no licensing requirements, anyone can set up shop – including those of low moral character.

What this means for you is that you might face a great deal of distrust from customers – especially if they’ve dealt with someone who has scammed them.

You can combat this, though, by showing you are serious about your profession by taking courses, considering an apprenticeship, undergoing a voluntary background check through your law enforcement office, submitting fingerprints, and registering with the ALOA.

Investing in yourself in such ways helps show that you are trustworthy.

Locksmith Programs in Hawaii

Another downside to not having specific licensing or educational requirements is that learning opportunities are a bit limited.

Locksmith courses are not typically offered at any Hawaiian colleges or trade schools, though you should always keep an eye open for this to change.

Don’t fret, though – limited choices do not mean you are out of luck.

Some distance learning courses can help prepare you.

1. ALOA

The ALOA provides many great benefits with membership, including hundreds of courses through its scholarship program.

Some of these are offered through their annual conventions and through seminars that take place all year long.

They also provide distance learning and assist in resident training.

If you want to be a successful locksmith in Hawaii, becoming a member of the ALOA is a great way to do it.

2. Stratford Career Institute

Stratford Career Institute offers a great general course for becoming a locksmith.

It covers everything from an overview of the profession to locksmithing techniques.

It’s also pretty affordable, typically running around $1,000.

However, they often offer discounts that take several hundred off the total price.

You can make payments instead of paying for it all upfront, and tuition covers the cost of materials as well as tools of the trade you’ll need for your studies.

This is a self-paced course, so you can complete it on your own time.

3. Foley Belsaw Locksmithing

Foley Belsaw Locksmithing is another great online resource for aspiring locksmiths.

You can find everything from various online courses to supplies for your profession.

The courses typically run between $500 and $1700, depending on which you choose.

And they work at your own pace, so you can take your time.

Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual wage for locksmiths in Hawaii is $58,750, or about $28.25 per hour.

Annual Salary Range:* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Hawaii

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers, OCC Code 49-9094, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.