How To Become a Qualified Master Locksmith (QML)

Becoming a Qualified Master Locksmith (QML) is one of the most respected milestones in a locksmith’s career. It’s a title that recognises your skill, professionalism, and commitment to the highest standards—and it’s awarded through membership with the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA).

Whether you’re brand new to the trade or already have years of hands-on experience, there are flexible routes to help you achieve this respected title.

Once you’ve passed the MLA Qualification – the nationally recognised ABBE Level 4 Certificate in General Locksmithing, regulated by OFQUAL– you can apply for the prestigious Qualified Master Locksmith (QML) status through our membership.

MLA Qualified Master Locksmith Logo. A mark of skill and professionalism in locksmithing

It’s a respected next step for Registered Members and a mark of professional excellence for experienced locksmiths.

What’s in the MLA Locksmith Qualification?

This isn’t just a theory-based qualification—it’s designed to reflect the practical skills every professional locksmith needs. The qualification covers four core modules:

1. Written Paper – Testing your general locksmithing knowledge
2. Fitting – Practical installation of a euro mortice deadlock to a door
3. Opening – Gaining entry into a British Standard (BS) 5 Lever Mortice Lock
4. Key Cutting (by hand) – Demonstrating precision and accuracy

Together, these modules ensure that those who hold the QML title truly represent the highest standards in the trade — which, by the way, is the highest locksmithing qualification you can get here in the UK.

MLA Qualification ABBE Level 4 Certificate in general locksmithing

Just Starting Out in locksmithing?

If you’re new to the locksmith trade — perhaps you’ve done some training elsewhere, or you’re planning to attend the MLA’s 5 Day Beginners Locksmith Course then Registered Membership is a great place to start.

As a Registered Member, you’ll:

• Join a nationwide community of locksmiths and suppliers
• Stay up to date with the latest skills and industry developments
• Be eligible to purchase MLA qualification notes to help you prepare

The MLA Qualification Programme – from beginner to Qualified Master Locksmith

The MLA also offers a clear Locksmith Qualification Programme for beginners, guiding you step by step towards the full MLA qualification. The programme includes:

• Our 5 Day Beginners Course
• Level 2 Opening Course (1 day) – learn how to open a BS mortice lock
• Qualification Preparation Day – a chance to practise the hands-on exam elements
• Access to Qualification Notes for the written module
• Two year of MLA registered membership – covering your enrolment fee and standard DBS check
• And finally, the MLA Qualification exam itself

The programme typically takes around two years, depending on your starting point and the time you can commit.

Locksmith Courses are run from our training centre in Rugby, Warwickshire, and we always recommend setting aside time to practise your new skills in between.

Already a Experienced Locksmith?

If you’ve been working in locksmithing and feel confident in your skills and knowledge, you can jump straight to the exam.

You can choose to:

• Take all four modules of the MLA qualification in a single day
• Or split them across two days, with guidance from our assessors

Once you pass the exam, you can then apply for QML status through our membership.

Want Extra Support Before Taking the Exam?

We offer several training courses that can help you prepare for the exam, especially if you’re looking to build confidence in specific areas.

Recommended Courses:

• Qualification Preparation Day – Hands-on guidance across all four modules with feedback and tips for home practice
• Level 1 Fitting Course – Part of our 5 Day Beginners Course, ideal for developing core fitting skills
• Level 2 Opening Course – Covers the British Standard mortice lock opening task included in the exam
• Curtain Lock Opening Course – Offers additional support in one of the most challenging opening elements

As a Registered Member (or an employee of an MLA Approved Company), you can also purchase our Qualification Notes to help with the written paper.

Our Qualification Preparation Day – hands on practice ahead of the exam

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to formalise years of professional experience, the MLA is here to help you become a Qualified Master Locksmith.

• Find out more about the MLA Qualification – exam details, training and preparation. Explore the MLA Qualification >
• Discover MLA Membership options – join a national network of professional locksmiths. Find out about QML membership >

Be recognised. Be trusted. Be part of something bigger.

Recommend Reading

• Join the Master Locksmiths Association
• Why use an MLA Approved Locksmith
• Courses to become a locksmith