Train for a successful career as a locksmith.

Career Overview

Locksmiths install and repair all types of locks—from safes to doors to cars. The work combines daily problem-solving with customer interaction, requiring both technical skills and comfort working with people.

This locksmithing program can be completed within two semesters, with each course running only half a semester. Formal locksmith training is shorter than many trades, but the field requires continuous learning as lock technology evolves.

Earn a Continuing Education Certificate upon completing the required courses below and launch your career today!

Courses

This program can be completed within two semesters. Evening classes are offered with two night sessions per week. Topics covered include the techniques and tools of the locksmithing trade, locksmith industry standards and practices, ethics and regulations, and legal and safety issues.

KEY-300 Locksmithing 101

This course teaches entry-level locksmithing techniques and the use of hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment used in the trade. Topics include rekeying locks; Kwikset, Schlage, and Arrow locksets; key-cutting machines; an introduction to impressions and lockpicking; and lock functions and finishes.

Note: A locksmith background check (listed as KEY-399) is a required prerequisite for this course.

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KEY-301 Locksmithing 102

This course emphasizes industry standards, ethics, legal issues, life safety codes, and basic master keying. Topics include rules of master keying, progression charts, master key cylinders, cross-keying, combinations and key punching, mortise locksets, and introduction to codes.

Prerequisite: KEY-300

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KEY-305 Locksmithing 201

This course covers cylinder depth and spacing, the use of a micrometer to measure cylinders and keys, master-key system design/multiplexing keyways, high-security cylinders, stand-alone mechanical push-button locks, surface-mount mechanical door closers, and fire door and life-safety codes.

Prerequisite: KEY-301 or background screening and commensurate experience working as a professional locksmith.

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KEY-304 Locksmithing 202

This course focuses on specialty topics within the locksmithing industry. Topics include exit devices, narrow stile/storefront locks, standalone electronic access control, low-voltage access control, and safe locks.

Prerequisite: KEY-305

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Program Eligibility

You must pass a criminal background check to enroll. Email us at trades@pgcc.edu to receive the forms at least six weeks before the class start date.

Note: The background screening costs $85. You will not be screened or charged if no spot is available in the class.

Costs and Registration

Costs

Each of the four classes costs $686, plus a $25 registration fee.

Registering as a New Student

See Continuing Education for account setup and enrollment instructions. Read the instructions carefully—there are multiple steps to creating an account. Continuing Education courses are open to the public, do not require formal admission to the College, and do not earn academic credits.

Registering as a Current Student

Register through your Owl Link account.

Contact Information

Email: trades@pgcc.edu 

For supplemental information on the locksmithing industry and trade, please see the Associated Locksmiths of America, Inc. website.