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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.
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:
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
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:
The MLA also offers a clear Locksmith Qualification Programme for beginners, guiding you step by step towards the full MLA qualification. The programme includes:
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.
Locksmith Qualification Programme
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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:
Once you pass the exam, you can then apply for QML status through our membership.
Take MLA Qualification
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:
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
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.
Be recognised. Be trusted. Be part of something bigger.
Joining the UK’s largest locksmith association, we have membership levels for all types of experience.
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