How to Become a Locksmith in Maine

A locksmith is a professional that works with their hands.

Their primary job function is to service locks, manufacture keys, and break locks.

A locksmith can make a duplicate key, replace locks, and even set up a home security system using different kinds of locking devices.

With a growing population, and a greater demand for housing, comes the need for locksmiths.

As long as there is a need for security, there will be a need for a locksmith.

A career as a locksmith doesn’t always have to start with a training program, but the right training program can set you off to a good start.

Steps to Become a Locksmith in Maine

Step 1: Join a trade school and obtain a certificate in locksmithing from an approved school.

Step 2: Gain experience through an apprenticeship under the supervision of a trained and certified locksmith or a master locksmith.

Step 3: Join a trade association.

An association may help to further your education should you wish to do so at a later stage and keep you updated on all the news and events in the industry.

Step 4: Find work as a locksmith.

A great place to start your career is with an established company.

This will allow you room to grow, evolve, and learn the tricks of the trade.

Step 5: Start your own business.

Some locksmiths have an entrepreneurial spirit and may want to venture off on their own.

After having done all the groundwork, you should be well established to start your own business.

Start-up costs for this type of business are usually low.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Locksmith in Maine

Maine does not require locksmiths to have a license or a certificate.

However, to open a business in Maine, you are required to apply for a business license and a selling permit if you plan to open up a storefront business where you will be selling stock to the public.

Locksmith Programs

Most locksmith programs in Maine are offered online.

1. Ashworth College

Ashworth College offers an accredited, self-paced online locksmith program that consists of five courses, two projects, and 19 examinations.

The accelerated program may be finished in as little as four months.

The program aims to prepare students for a career as a locksmith through an integrated online program that is interactive and allows students to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in this field.

Students cover a range of topics, including the different types of keys and locking devices, how to service these devices, home security, and home security wiring.

Upon graduation from the program, students should be fully equipped to start a career as a locksmith.

Full tuition is $899 or students can opt to pay $59 monthly for a total of $1,089.

2. ICS Canada

ICS Canada offers an online locksmith program.

The program can be completed in as little as eight months.

Students cover a range of topics from key variety to key cutting, and electronic security.

The school and program are DEAC accredited.

Furthermore, Penn Foster is the parent school of ICS Canada, and accreditation is extended to ICS through Penn Foster.

The program teaches students how to duplicate keys by hand and through a machine.

Students also learn to install, maintain, and troubleshoot door locks, and a range of other locking devices including vaults, safes, and panic hardware.

Upon completion of the program, students receive a certificate of completion.

Tuition for the program is $999 or a payment plan can be arranged with low payments of $59 per month.

3. Penn Foster

Penn Foster also offers an online Locksmith and Home Security Technician Training program.

Students benefit from interactive assignments and practical assignments.

The accredited program is offered 100% online and is self-paced.

Students learn to work with a variety of locks, how to make and duplicate keys, how to work with vehicle locks, vaults, safes, and other locking devices, as well as home security and locking systems.

Tuition is $899 when paid in full or $59 per month.

Salary

The salary of a locksmith in Portland, Maine starts at $37,500 per annum on the low end and $59,690 on the high end.

The salary on the high end can be further broken down as follows:

• $4,974 per month
• $1,148 per week
• $29 per hour

These amounts will differ depending on your employer, the number of years of experience, and which part of the state you live in.

Annual Salary Range:* Salary information last updated 2024