Starting a Locksmithing Business in Florida

[Fire Fox]

Yesterday I went to a local locksmith to see if I could get some springs or if they could tell me where to get them because I destroyed a couple while attempting to take apart a lock. At first the guy was somewhat confused why I would want some springs. I explained to him that I was getting into lockpicking and have been interested for a while in locksmithing.

There was a pretty immediate change and we talked for a bit. He told me that in Florida there was a law passed in which you can no longer take the correspondence courses to get licensed. You have to go to an actual school. I haven't researched it yet. Thought I'd share the good experience I had with the locksmith store. The majority of locksmiths in my area are the 24 hour mobile types, so it took me a while to find an actual locksmith business.

[allamericanlock]

Ya you might want to do some research that doesnt sound right. Here is what i found after one google search.

# As of early 2010, the locksmith industry in Florida was unregulated--there were no requirements or licenses needed to work as a locksmith in the state. The lack of control led to fraud by people posing as locksmiths, according to media investigations. Florida's legislators responded by drafting proposed bills, one in the House and one in the Senate, to regulate the industry. If you are affiliated with the locksmith business, you should be aware of these bills.
Background Check
# In order to work as a locksmith, a background check and fingerprinting will be required by the state. The criminal history in both Florida and with the FBI will be checked. Also, the applicant will be required to pay for these services.
Proficiency
# An applicant will have to show a certain level of proficiency before being granted a license. Ways to prove proficiency will include work as a locksmith before the regulations are put in place or work as an apprentice locksmith. However, a license will not be required for an apprentice locksmith or a locksmith working for a license-holder.
Advertising
# Any locksmith who advertises services will have to include his license number in the advertisement. Those failing to do so will be fined.
Renewal
# A license will be good for two years, at which point the holder of the license will have to renew it. Proof of insurance and an updated criminal history will be required at renewal. Working as a locksmith without a license will carry a fine of up to $10,000.


Read more: Locksmith License Laws in Florida | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6021726_locksm ... z12xtQHXcf

[DannySmith]

If you want to get more information on how to start your own locksmith business, I suggest you to join some business organizations. They can not only provide you with relevant data, but they can also help you look for financial assistance, if you need one.

[yng_pick]

Hello,

The state of Florida does not have licensing for Locksmiths.
There was some legislation this previous year in the interest of licensing, but it did not pass.

To run a locksmithing business you need the required business licensing, but to work for a locksmith, the only schooling/ education/ certification necessary is what the particular company is requiring.

You will want to check with your local government. For instance, Miami-Dade County does require registration:

http://www.miamidade.gov/csd/newsletter ... smiths.asp