Your Locksmithing Questions Answered by the Experts
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most commonly asked questions we receive from our students and we have set these out into four key sections.
Course related questions
How do I become a locksmith?
To become a locksmith of value, you need to, first and foremost, have a strong work ethic and a practical mindset. However, there is more to being a locksmith than just your basic training; you need to be willing to continue to learn as time goes on.
Generally, success in the locksmithing industry comes from:
The Quality of Training Provided
We ensure that every student who learns under our tutelage gets the best possible locksmithing education. Our focus is on 100% satisfaction during and after the training experience so students get the best possible learning experience. Our course director ensures that every student is equipped with the key skills and the confidence they need to thrive, and we ensure that the quality of training received at MPL Locksmith Training is beyond reproach. opportunities.
The Desire and Ability to Generate the Work for Yourself
At MPL Locksmith Training, we do everything we can to help our newly certified locksmiths find work within the profession. To this end, as part of our 3 and 5 day courses we spend time discussing and advising our students about how to market themselves as well as advising them on ways to generate sub contract work within their locality. However, we can only stress the importance of properly marketing yourself in the local area and working hard to find ways to generate your contracts. Those who are willing to work to find contracts will be those most likely to feel the rewards of their hard work and commitment to improvement.
Your Attitude and Commitment to Work
Of course, nobody succeeds in a competitive industry like locksmithing if they lack a natural work ethic. You learn from the best at MPL Locksmith Training, and you develop the skills that let you be your boss or find work within the locksmithing industry. Being a locksmith means being ready to start a job at any moment, as you never know when an emergency call will arrive. Given initial jobs can produce as much as £100 for labour alone, future work comes to those who commit to the role fully.
How long does it take to train as a locksmith?
After your initial 3 or 5-Day training, it can usually take a further 12 months to become an experienced locksmith. You will always be learning on the job, and have to keep up to date with the latest products and industry related regulations such as lock standards.
The easiest way to begin your new locksmithing career is by attending our comprehensive 3 or 5-Day Locksmith Course which is perfect for beginners who are looking to learn how to become a locksmith within one week. Many of our students have gone on to set up their own locksmithing businesses immediately after completing the course.
I am new to locksmithing, do I need any qualifications to train as a locksmith?
You do not need to have any qualifications prior to starting a locksmith training course with MPL Locksmith Training. However, you will need a commitment to improvement and a desire to learn the required skills. Learning locksmithing is a trade which is open to everyone, regardless of their background.
What course should I take if I'm a complete beginner to locksmithing?
Of course, you can come into the locksmithing trade without a manual background – we have many students who have successfully done just that. However, you will need some general skills to make the most of your capabilities. We suggest that you take our 5-Day City & Guilds/NCFE Specialist Training Course to build up the initial skills you need, but generally, we suggest prospective locksmiths should:
- Speak to other students to get a better idea of what to expect during the learning process.
- Speak with training providers, preferably at their training premises, to get a better idea of what to expect.
- Learn about the professional background of your training providers and understand the kind of experience they have.
- Are they a trading locksmith and genuine? Not every locksmith training provider has practical, hands-on experience in the field. At MPL, we ensure that our training staff continue to work as active locksmiths on a regular basis.
- Are the your training providers officially accredited? Always ask for proof of certification as many providers claim to be accredited when in fact they are not. Some people set up as training companies after only recently having taken a short course themselves!
What skills do I need to become a locksmith?
To become a locksmith, there are some general skills and universal traits that we recommend anyone entering the profession should have. While you need to develop a technical understanding of locks and such, you should also have the following skills sets:
- High levels of dexterity
- Hands-on practical skills
- A passion for problem solving
- Patience and attention to detail
- Good, honest communication skills
How big are the locksmith training classes?
Our classes have a maximum of six students at one time, so we can ensure every student gets the full attention and support they need during their education.
How often do the training courses run?
We run weekly training classes, though these are subject to availability. If you need a specific date, we will do our best to accommodate you.
Are there any online training courses to become a locksmith?
Learning how to become a locksmith through the internet is a challenge and one that we do not recommend. This is a hands-on industry, and you need to develop those practical skills as much as the theoretical side of locksmithing. Mostly, our students learn about locksmithing in person, not online.
Are your accreditations and certifications recognised?
We are the UK’s ONLY provider of officially accredited City & Guilds and NCFE certified locksmith courses. Our accreditations recognise the high standards, process and delivery of bespoke training programmes which no other provider in the UK can offer.
In addition, we also run a range of courses which upon completion students receive our MPL certificate, which because we are the largest training provider in the UK is recognised throughout the industry as the gold standard.
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01924 693 293
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Prices, payments and refunds
How much do your locksmith training courses cost?
If you have any queries at all about costs, contact us on 01924 693293 for help in getting a better understanding of the costs involved. You can also contact us using our contact form.
Can I receive funding for my training?
Yes, we provide funding options such as grants for former military professionals and students and other financial support solutions. Contact us on 01924 693293 for additional details on funding options.
Can I cancel or get a refund of my booking if I change my mind?
In all the years we have operated as a locksmith training provider, we have never been asked to provide a refund. If you need anything whatsoever during the learning process, we make sure that you get the one-to-one support you need. We do everything we can to ensure every student leaves their MPL Locksmith Training experience happy with the results.
Our staff work tirelessly to meet your every need and requirement, including dates and times. Once you have confirmed your date with us, your place is guaranteed; we ask that you do everything possible to stick to these agreed dates. Should you need to cancel or re-arrange a place due to illness or unexpected circumstances, we do everything we can to accommodate your needs.
Do you offer any kind of payment plan?
At MPL Locksmith Training, we pride ourselves on being as versatile as possible so our students benefit. We take a small deposit to secure your place on our locksmith training courses, with the remainder payable when you arrive for your first day of training. However, if you change your mind or decide otherwise not to attend, we cannot refund your deposit. Instead, we will look to offer an alternative date for your training to commence.
We offer the following payment methods:
– Bank transfer (BACS)
– Debit/Credit Cards
– Direct Debits
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01924 693 293
To book your course
Location
Where do your locksmith training courses take place?
At MPL Locksmith Training, we have a purpose-built training facility based in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. You can easily access our training facility from across the UK. Our full address is:
MPL Locksmith & Security Training
1 Thornes Office Park
Monckton Road
Wakefield
WF2 7AN
By Train
Wakefield Westgate Train Station is the closest major station, located approximately 8 minutes by taxi from MPL Locksmith & Security Training. Alternatively, local buses and rideshare options are available on a regular basis for added convenience.
From Major Cities
London: You can catch a direct train from London’s King’s Cross Station to Wakefield Westgate in under 2 hours.
Birmingham: You can go from Birmingham New Street to Wakefield Westgate in approximately 90 minutes.
Other Routes: Wakefield is well-served by major rail routes, ensuring a stress-free journey to our training location.
By Air
The closest airport to MPL Locksmith & Security Training is Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), located approximately 21 miles away.
Alternative Airports:
Manchester Airport (MAN): Just 50 miles from Wakefield, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA): Around 27 miles away, providing additional travel options
Do you offer accommodations for your locksmith training?
When learning on site, most of our students stay at the nearby Holmfield Arms in Wakefield. The accommodation is less than a mile from the MPL training facilities, and all rooms have free Wi-Fi internet for us. Full breakfast is also included in the price of your stay, as well as a car park if needed, and 20% off an evening meal (food only). A full list of facilities can be found below:
When training with MPL, it is important that you can get a good night’s sleep so that you can focus properly during each day of training. The hotel can be found at Holmfield Arms, Denby Dale Road, Wakefield, WF2 8DY. We can also cater for any specific requirements needed during your stay – just let our team know.
Can I check the locksmith training centre and facilities before I enroll?
Yes, you are more than welcome to come and check out our facilities for yourself. We offer an easy way to get to and from our facility, with our door open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. You can also come on Saturday from 9am to 1pm if you need any assistance here.
We offer tours of the facilities so you can see where you will be learning. However, please call ahead of time so we can make sure one of our instructors is free to give you the insight you need. We will arrange an appointment with you on the phone as soon as possible.
Call us today on:
01924 693 293
To book your course
Career and potential earnings
How much can I earn as a trained locksmith?
Earnings vary depending on your location, experience level, and reputation. The National Careers Service suggests an average income of around £25,000 per annum for an employed locksmith.
For self-employed locksmiths the opportunities are far more lucrative, with many of our former students who decide to go down this route earning in excess of £50,000 in their first 12-18 months. It is important to note income can vary depending on hours worked, your location, the kind of work you take on, and outside factors such as the local competition in the area.
For reference, most locksmiths can expect to earn:
- Trainee: £25,000
- Experienced: £35,000-£45,000
- Self-employed: £50,000 and above
How much does it cost to become a locksmith?
Training to become a locksmith with MPL is just the start of your investment into your professional future. You also need to consider important factors such as investing in tools and equipment, a vehicle, marketing costs for starting your business, and travel costs. Some of the most prominent costs include:
- Buying tools that you require to work as a locksmith, such as hand and power tools as well as the relevant specialist locksmith tools including lock picks
- Stock surplus, so you always have a quantity of locks, hardware and specialist multi point locks to use upon arrival at your jobs
- Vehicle costs, including vehicle hire/rent and the cost of petrol for getting you to and from jobs
- Insurance for your vehicle, as well as professional liability insurance to protect yourself on the job
- Marketing costs to help you market your business and bring in more work in years to come; this might include website development costs, logo design costs, business card/flyer marketing, etc.
Where can I get work from after completing the locksmith trainings?
Finding work as a locksmith is one of the most challenging parts of the process, generally. We cover marketing during our training courses, but many of our locksmiths get work by approaching companies that need locksmiths. These could include the local police force, estate agents, letting agents, and even professional locksmith companies looking to outsource and subcontract. You can advertise yourself in local advertising and online, too, to find work in your local area and beyond.
When I become an accredited locksmith, do I go self employed or on my own?
The choice is yours entirely, but most MPL graduates choose to become self-employed so they have more control over their future career opportunities.
What services as a locksmith should I offer?
The skills you offer depend on the kind of training you undertake with us. We recommend that you diversify your skills by looking into the most in-demand locksmithing services in the local area. You could also move into specialist fields like commercial locksmithing, uPVC work or auto locksmithing, which require a different set of skills. Learn as many skills as you can so you can turn your hand to as many potential jobs in the local area as possible.
What about tools, where can I get my own locksmith tools from?
At MPL, you will get used to using high-quality tools, as we offer top-of-the-range equipment for training purposes. We also offer toolkits and specialist packs that provide you with the tools you need for certain forms of locksmithing. We offer great prices and availability for all the locksmithing tools you might need.
Where can I buy stock from after I have completed the training?
At MPL we have a trade counter where you can pick up pretty much any piece of equipment you need to get the job done. We offer next-day delivery on stock of all kinds. We offer some of the best trade prices in the market so that you can get quality products at the fairest rate possible. If you need recommendations or help identifying a specific product, just ask!
Do I have to be a member of any organisations?
No, there is no requirement to join a locksmithing membership or agency. There is no governing body in the United Kingdom for our trade. You are under no obligation to join a trade body or group to become a professional locksmith.
Do I need a DBS check to be a locksmith?
While a DBS check is not a legal requirement, we recommend that anyone who completes our course undergo one. This can increase their professional credibility and help them secure work.
Do you offer ongoing support after the locksmith training?
We absolutely do – we know that locksmithing is a daunting process. We never leave you out in the open once you finish your training; our team remain available on a 24-hour basis to assist students of all skill levels. We take great pride in not only training our students but remaining present to assist them even when they are on the job.
We are here at any time to take your call; simply call us on 01924 693293 for advice from one of our training team. During those first jobs, it is common to run into problems and unexpected issues/complications. We help you work through them by offering advice and a second opinion—completely free of charge for all students who pass an MPL Locksmith Training course!
Call us today on:
01924 693 293
To book your course
Providing Training Courses
Students Attended
Courses Run
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Who are MPL Locksmith Training?
With over two decades of experience in the locksmithing industry, at MPL we make it our mission to offer the highest-quality courses from our fully-equipped training centre, designed to cater for all levels of experience. Furthermore, we are industry specialists when it comes to uPVC lock and door repairs.
Whether you’re a complete beginner searching for a new trade, or you just want to familiarise yourself with the latest locksmith technology, we have the ideal training course for you.
Our courses are a great way to start working for yourself or for an established locksmith – the choice is yours!
Call: 01924 693 293 today for more information
The MPL Difference
What sets MPL apart from any other training provider is our passion for sharing our knowledge and experience empowering others to build a rewarding and successful career in locksmithing.
Accredited & Certified Courses
We are the UK’s ONLY provider of officially Accredited City & Guilds and NCFE certified locksmith courses.
Our accreditations recognise the high standards, process and delivery of bespoke training programmes which no other provider in the UK can offer.
Expert Trainers
All of our trainers are experts in the field of with decades of hands on experience between them. More importantly, they are all still active locksmiths.
They each still carry out work today, meaning they’re in a great position to pass on the tricks of the trade and teach you based upon years of experience rather than you being taught by those who have no hands on experience.
Comprehensive Courses
We cover all methods of locksmithing across our entire range of courses. You will learn all the techniques from basic methods of entry through to the use of the most up-to-date equipment available.
Our comprehensive training will enable you to make the best decisions for your business and clients. These methods include non-destructive entry for wooden and the latest uPVC doors.
uPVC Specialists
Being one of the only UK distributors of uPVC door locks means we’re specialists in the field. With many years of experience we are in a unique position to pass on an unrivalled depth of knowledge to you.
This expert knowledge will enable you to take on uPVC jobs as a specialist in the field with confidence.
Wooden doors are a thing of the past! In order to pick up the most work, you must be competent in uPVC doors.
Tailored Courses
All of our courses train you according to your ability level and whether you’re a beginner or are already locksmithing, we are confident they will meet your needs.
All of our courses can be tailored specifically to your needs to ensure you receive the training that will help further your career or business.
Unlike many other training providers, our goal is to make our courses relevant to you! We don’t teach from standard DVDs!
24/7 Support & Backup
At MPL training you can assured of of full back up and support following your course and, for as long as you need it!
Your trainer will be available 24 hours a day should you need assistance when carrying out your first jobs. It is this level of support which we pride ourself on.
Locksmithing can be a very challenging yet rewarding job, and it’s nice to know that you can have a second opinion or a little bit of advice totally free of charge should you need it.
From novice to expert ...
We train the best locksmiths!
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Training with MPL
When you decide to register to train with MPL you are guaranteed a standard of integrity, knowledge and care which we believe is unmatched in the locksmith training sector.
Our Expert Trainers
All of our trainers remain hands on locksmiths who are active on a day to day basis which means that their theory is not only classroom based and historical – in fact the opposite. They are fully up to speed with all the latest installed lock products and have first-hand direct experience of how to gain access when required.
This direct knowledge coupled with their training experience and manner makes them the perfect teachers, and this is reflected in the many testimonials we receive each week from satisfied students.
Certifications
All of the certifications which we provide at MPL Security & Training have specific industry relevant content and meaning.
The main goal of the training team at MPL is to ensure that any certifications you achieve whilst with us, provides you with all the support and confidence to help you on a daily basis in your working life.
Tools and Supplies
At MPL, we manufacture our own locksmith tools and make them available to students, only recommending what they truly need. We don’t push tool packs or encourage unnecessary purchases.
Behind every lock, there's opportunity waiting for you ...
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Why not come and take a look around our Training Facilities?
We invite prospective students and employers to visit our training centre to meet our professional team of trainers, gain a thorough understanding of the comprehensive courses we provide, and to ask any questions they may have.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm
If you wish to visit our training centre and view the facilities which we have on offer, we kindly request that you give us a quick call beforehand to ensure one of our instructors will be available, and we can schedule appointment for you.
Call us today on:
01924 693 293
To book your course
Over 190+ 5 Star Google Reviews
We’ve trained a huge number of students over the past 20 years; many of which are kind enough to send us some great testimonials.
Below are some examples of the feedback we receive from our training courses from both individual students and the many organisations we work with.
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The MPL Training Prospectus
Looking for more detailed information about our locksmith training courses and which one is the right fit for you?
Then why not request a copy of our latest MPL prospectus?
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MPL helping develop careers and businesses across the UK
We have trained individuals from across the country to become skilled locksmiths and build successful businesses, including:
Get your locksmithing career off to a great start with an Accredited MPL Locksmith Course!
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Location and Transport Links
Our purpose built training centre is located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, with easy access from major transport links across the UK.
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MPL Locksmith & Security Training
1 Thornes Office Park
Monckton Road
Wakefield
WF 7AN
By Train
From Major Cities
- London: Catch a direct train from London’s King’s Cross Station to Wakefield Westgate in under 2 hours.
- Birmingham: Enjoy quick connections from Birmingham New Street to Wakefield Westgate in approximately 90 minutes.
- Other Routes: Wakefield is well-served by major rail routes, ensuring a stress-free journey.
From the Train Station
Wakefield Westgate Train Station is the closest major station, located approximately 8 minutes by taxi from MPL Locksmith & Security Training. Alternatively, local buses and rideshare options are available on a regular basis for added convenience.
Save on Tickets
Plan ahead and save money by booking tickets in advance via Western Railway or other ticketing platforms. Advanced fares from London start as low as £25 return.
Embark on a comfortable and hassle-free train journey to attend your training at MPL Locksmith & Security Training!
By Air
Nearest Airport
The closest airport to MPL Locksmith & Security Training is Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), located approximately 21 miles away.
Alternative Airports
- Manchester Airport (MAN): Just 50 miles from Wakefield, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA): Around 27 miles away, providing additional travel options.
Getting from the Airport
- Taxi: Approximately 40 minutes drive to Wakefield center.
- Public Transport: Regular bus services and train connections from Leeds city center make the journey easy.
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