LIVE Online Classes

California Institute of Locksmithing LIVE online program

The only state licensed locksmithing school providing online LIVE instruction updated in 2020. We teach REAL WORLD locksmithing and our instructors are experts in the industry. This is a class for someone who wants to make a living at locksmithing, and we are continually upgrading our knowledge, and the course, to reflect current industry standards and new technology. This is not just an online course that is outdated, we regularly update our information and provide it to you with LIVE lectures. Our school also has a sister company doing actual locksmith jobs every day. Whether you are a working locksmith or starting with no knowledge at all we are your one stop shop and the best in the business.

Online classes are a combination of pre-recorded videos, live lectures and live question and answer sessions. Any online students will be eligible upon completing the full program, for an additional fee, to visit the school for a workshop that will allow you to earn a special accreditation from our school. Some live classes may be part of the in-house live classes depending on your time zone and availability.

Join us for a LIVE bi-monthly meet and greet online to see what we offer, who we are and what you can expect. Meet and greet is the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Contact the school for log-in information.

You start with the introductory class called the “Lock Box” to give you the introduction to locksmithing, terms, basics of the industry, job availability, how to get started, what to expect from future classes, etc. The cost is $400. This class is required before taking any classes unless you are an approved locksmith and get a waiver from the school. You will receive a certificate of completion after completion. The materials consist of a flash drive with videos, locksmith information training booklet and a certificate for a on-on-one meeting with one of our master instructors.

After that you join our basic locksmithing course. There is a different subject each week (i.e. re-keying, lock picking, installation, etc.) that utilize the tools you receive in the start-up package. Most classes you do not need to take in a specific order. Each week you will watch an instructional video or read a manual, followed by home practice and then attend a live class that will address any issues you have on the subject. During the live class, the instructor will also give specialty tips on the given subject from a real-world point of view. The instructor can also see you, if you wish, to give advice on methods and techniques.

Weekly Categories Include

BASICS

Basic class – Keys and key machines – learn the various kinds of machines including manual, semi auto, automatic, computerized and punch machines. Learn how they work, the benefits of each, what types of keys can be cut on each and how to get the best prices. Learn how to cut keys by code or originate keys with, or without, having an expensive code machine. Troubleshooting, calibrating and what to check when buying a used machine is also part of this section.

Basic class – Locksmithing and the internet – learn about paid and free sources that will benefit you as a locksmith including online forums, specialty social media, buying at a discount, used equipment for big discounts, manuals, books, apps, free seminar and distributors.

Basic class – Rekeying locks – How to change the lock so a key no longer works, and a new key will work. We cover all the most common residential and commercial locks. We will also cover the various type of tumblers, special tools, pin kits, and tips and tricks.

Basic class – Lock and key / parts and construction- how to find the right keys for the job, most common keys used, how to identify the individual key, various types of keys, example of high security keys, lock functions, lock grades, backsets, industry lock color identification, how to order locks, types of locks, lock construction. How to use the directories.

Basic class – lock trouble shooting and forensics – learn the most common problems and how to fix them. With this class you will be able to identify and fix the most common problems you see in both residential and commercial locks. We will also address the issue of basic lock forensics and how analyze and protect your clients.

Basic class – Codes and Code machines – learn what codes are and how to look them up, with several different sources. Get access to our code database, you can do it hands on not just a lecture. We show you several different sources and the benefits of all of them.

Basic class – Masterkeying –Learn how to set up a lock system so that there is a masterkey that opens every lock and each lock has another key that just opens that lock. You will learn the rules, differences in locks, trouble shooting, pull out keys, shear lines and charting. Each student will receive a computer-generated charting system for use on a future real job.

Basic class – Business 1 – laws, basic licensing and governmental issues, networking, how to join locksmith associations, setting up your work vehicle, advertising issues and how to get free advertising, locksmith apps and software and inventory guidelines. We will also get you signed up with industry distributors that will sell you products at the best prices and treat you as a VIP because you’re a student at our school!

Basic class – Business 2- additional laws, starting your own business, invoicing and estimates, marketing ideas and forms, dispatching/invoicing software for locksmiths (included in the program), locksmith apps and software and inventory guidelines.

Basic class – Lock bypass techniques – how to gain entry for lockout and malfunctioning locks. Numerous techniques not limited too picking, raking, bumping, etc. This will include both regular and high security locks using destructive and nondestructive techniques. This class will also cover the removal of broken keys and foreign materials in the lock. More than 15 methods will be discussed. Specialty tools for opening locks will also be covered.

ADVANCED

Advanced class- Lock Impressioning – learn how to make a key for a lock when all keys are lost without any type of key machine. These techniques will show you have to put an uncut key into a lock and analyze it for marks that will result in you being able to make a key for that lock. We will teach you 4 techniques. (This class includes practice locks, impressioning file, blank keys and a sample bladed key)

Advanced class- Safes and safe manipulation –various type and ratings, dial versus keypads, basic opening techniques, most common problems and solutions, specialty tools for automatic dialing and overriding the keypad combinations, how to change the combinations, concepts on how to manipulate to open dial safes and of drilling open safes.(This class includes a mounted safe dial, change key and manipulation safe manual)

Advanced class -High Security Locks – learn how many high security locks work, major brands, differences, requirements to sell and some possible bypass techniques.

Advanced class – Lock installation – Teaches you how to drill into doors to install new locks. We provide step-by-step instructions with tips and tricks to be a professional. this class includes a drill jig, and the tools you need to get started right away.

Advanced class – Commercial locksmithing- learn about door closures, panic/life safety bars, laws, and cases specifically for commercial situations, exit devices, marketing strategy and understanding commercial accounts.

Advanced class – Lock bypass techniques – get more specialized training in how to open high security locks, drilling techniques, special tools, keypad locks, some safes, and making your own tools. Learn to most efficient ways so open all kinds of locks without damaging them. See the latest tool as they come out on the market. We constantly update new techniques especially as new lock types as they come onto the market. This class will include some lock bypass tools in addition to the pick set from the basic class.

Advanced class – Automotive Part 1- the basics of automotive locksmithing on cutting keys, decoding, common problems and troubleshooting, vin to code, NASTF, Basic Equipment, lock configurations, inventory, and lock outs. This is a good basic class to get you started in understanding how automotive locks are different and how to get the right equipment without spending a fortune. This class includes some tools and equipment that changes due to the constantly produced new technology.

ADD ON class – Automotive Part 2 – this class is for the serious student who wants to be able to work on cars and “includes” the necessary equipment including specialized tools, transponder key programmer, transponder key cloner, high security key machine* and testing equipment. The focus is on making keys and troubleshooting automotive locksmith issues. Price/class pending. Requirement: basic class training completed or current licensed locksmith with schools preapproval.

Advanced class – IC Cores – Best (A2) and Schlage IC Core construction, key and master keying. Learn all you need to know to work on interchangeable cores and how they are unique to the rest of the locks. The fee including tools BEST pin kit,
ejector tool, capping tool, cradle, masterkey chart, practice change keys, key guage and 2 locks. Must have previous experience of masterkeying standard locks or taken our masterkey class.

Advanced class – Advanced materkeying – Very detailed course on masterkeying including maison and ghost keys, major projects, sub masters, tips and tricks. This is a very comprehensive program. This class includes a mini universal pin kit, Friedman masterkey follower and masterkey charts.

Basic class students:

Access to our video library of industry videos

1-year free locksmith text/email support

1-year access to class videos and live lectures

Free locksmith dispatch software and job organization tool

Advanced class students:

All the basic plus…

Limited key code software access

One-on-one live instructor counseling and advice

Free locksmith text/email support

Additional tools/hardware

LOCK BOX* / BASIC CLASS Tool kit includes:

*Tool bag with basic hand tools needed for class

*3 in 1 plug follower exclusive to CIL

*Pinning mat

*Set of Files

Start your locksmith course whenever is good for you!

Have access to all of your pre-recorded training videos and learn at your own pace.

Your Future Starts Here.

Not sure? Contact us anytime with questions and concerns