Locksmiths and Safe Repairers
Locksmiths and safe repairers repair and open locks, make keys, change locks and safe combinations, and install and repair safes. They work in their own shops, visit homes and businesses, work in hospitals and other institutions, or handle emergency calls when people get locked out.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against locksmiths and safe repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A locksmith might spend part of the morning rekeying locks at a new office building, then respond to an emergency call from a resident locked out of their house. Afternoons often involve working in the shop, cutting keys and repairing lock mechanisms. Other days focus on installing new security locks or servicing safes. The work requires handling tools precisely and troubleshooting mechanical problems on the spot.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you're comfortable with hands-on mechanical tasks and prefer concrete, practical problems over abstract ones. You tend to follow established procedures and appreciate work with clear, predictable steps and measurable results.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Locksmith · Veterans Health Administration · Atlanta, Georgia · $34.34–$40
- Carpenter/Locksmith · U.S. Coast Guard · New London, Connecticut · $29.22–$34.25
- LOCKSMITH WORKER · Air Education and Training Command · Fort Sam Houston, Texas · $53469–$62380
- Locksmith · Veterans Health Administration · Orlando, Florida · $27.92–$32.64
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $72,400 | $76,740 | $85,870 | — |
| Connecticut | $56,870 | $69,280 | $78,690 | 120 |
| Hawaii | $30,720 | $64,490 | $73,790 | 50 |
| Delaware | $47,600 | $63,640 | $86,910 | 50 |
| New York | $46,840 | $61,830 | $69,240 | 960 |
| California | $49,910 | $61,010 | $80,530 | 2,060 |
| Maryland | $52,100 | $60,330 | $69,440 | 270 |
| Massachusetts | $54,640 | $59,420 | $82,680 | 300 |
| Minnesota | $47,290 | $59,070 | $64,380 | 220 |
| Alaska | $49,500 | $58,390 | $80,810 | 80 |
| Illinois | $37,460 | $58,110 | $65,570 | 430 |
| Washington | $48,320 | $58,010 | $67,890 | 380 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL) — Associated Locksmiths of America
- Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL) — Associated Locksmiths of America
- Certified Master Locksmith (CML) — Associated Locksmiths of America
- Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST) — Associated Locksmiths of America
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against locksmiths and safe repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-9094.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.