Our online training covers everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques like EEPROM and key programming. Courses are split into clear, step-by-step video modules, so you can follow along at your own pace. New content is added regularly, and all members get access to the full course library and upcoming releases.

All training is online. You can access the courses anytime, from anywhere, and learn at your own pace with no need to attend in person. We also include a community so that you can ask questions.

You can choose what works best for you. Subscribe for £119/month to get unlimited access to all current and future courses, with new content added regularly. Or, if you prefer, you can purchase individual course bundles for specific vehicle makes and models starting from £395.

Alter Academy is an independent training platform and not formally accredited by an external body. However, our courses are created by an experienced auto locksmith with over 10 years in the trade, and are designed to give you real, practical skills you can use in the field.

Our courses are designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge you need to start taking on real jobs. We also include videos on basic equipment setup, stock advice, and business tips to help you get started. All you need is the right tools, confidence, and consistent practice.

Yes, we provide a structured path for beginners. When you subscribe, you’ll get access to a clear step-by-step learning journey designed to take you from the basics to more advanced skills. You can also choose to buy individual course bundles if you prefer to focus on specific vehicle types or topics.

We don’t currently have full video training on business setup, but it’s on our roadmap. In the meantime, members get access to community support, tips from experienced locksmiths, and trusted supplier recommendations for websites, marketing, tools, and more.

Many members start promoting their services within a few months and take on jobs they feel confident with. You don’t need to know everything to begin, start small and build experience. If a job feels beyond your level, our community is there to support you, and you can often refer it to another trusted locksmith.

Our training is suitable for all levels, no prior experience is needed. However, membership is restricted to those outside a 60-mile radius of SG14 to avoid local competition.

Tools are not included, but we provide guidance on what you’ll need to begin — including recommendations for picking tools, programmers, key cutting machines, and stock. Beginner-friendly equipment setup is covered in the course and discussed within the member community.

A basic setup to get started as a mobile auto locksmith typically costs between £3,000 and £5,000. This includes essential tools like key programmers, picking tools, cutting machines, and initial stock. We provide guidance on trusted suppliers and what to prioritise based on your budget.

We use a range of professional key cutting machines depending on the job, but the Xhorse Condor XC-Mini Plus II is a popular choice among members for its reliability and versatility. We also share recommendations and setup tips in the community based on your budget and needs.

Some tools, like the HU198, are used for specific vehicle models. You don’t need every tool to get started, we recommend building your kit gradually based on the types of jobs you’re taking on. The course and community provide guidance on which tools are essential and when to invest in more specialised equipment.

Yes. Inside the course and community, we guide you through the tools and equipment you’ll need from essential items to optional upgrades. This includes pick tools, key programmers, cutting machines, EEPROM tools, and stock. We also share trusted suppliers and advice on what to prioritise based on your budget and goals.

As a member, you’ll get access to our private store and recommendations for trusted suppliers. We’ll point you to the best tools at the best prices including picks, programmers, cutting machines, and more based on your budget and what stage you’re at.

Most members go straight into starting their own mobile auto locksmith business. Our training is designed to give you the skills and confidence to take on real jobs without needing an apprenticeship. You can begin promoting your services and taking on work you’re comfortable with, while using the community for support and guidance. If a job feels too advanced, there’s often another locksmith in the group you can refer it to.

Most members start their own business straight after training. Our courses are designed to give you the practical skills and confidence to begin taking on jobs independently. If you’re unsure, you can start part-time or take on smaller jobs while building experience. Plus, our community is always there to support you

We don’t place members into jobs directly, but our community is a great place to connect with experienced locksmiths across the UK. Some members collaborate, refer work to each other, or even bring others in on larger jobs. If you’re looking to build experience or ease into the trade, the community can be a valuable resource.

It varies by person, but with regular practice, many members start taking on paid jobs within a few months. The key is consistency, the more time you spend practising and learning, the faster your confidence and skill will grow. Our step-by-step training and community support help you build real-world competence at your own pace.

Start by mastering the basics through consistent practice. Focus on building confidence with common vehicle types, then gradually invest in more advanced tools and skills like EEPROM and key programming. Promote your services locally, build your reputation through great customer service, and stay active in the community for support, referrals, and ongoing learning. As you grow, consider specialising or expanding your service area.

Yes, with the right skills, tools, and consistency, many auto locksmiths earn £500–£1,500 per day, often from just a few jobs. While it takes time to build confidence and client flow, the earning potential is high, and many members successfully run their own full-time mobile businesses.

The potential is high for those who are consistent, reliable, and willing to keep learning. Auto locksmiths are in strong demand, and with the right skills and setup, many earn a full-time income or more, often £500–£1,500 per day. Success comes down to practice, smart marketing, and delivering great service. Our training and community are here to support you every step of the way.

In most parts of the UK, you don’t need a formal licence or certification to operate as an auto locksmith. However, you must always work legally and ethically. We also recommend having public liability insurance and registering your business properly if you’re trading independently.

Alter Academy is not formally accredited by an external body. We’re an independent training platform built by experienced auto locksmiths, focused on real-world, hands-on skills that help you succeed in the field. Our goal is to give you the knowledge, confidence, and community support to start working, not just a certificate.

I started with no experience, just a strong interest, a few tools, and a lot of trial and error. Over time, I invested in better equipment, built up my skills, and began taking on more complex jobs. Auto locksmithing gave me the freedom to escape the 9–5, build real confidence, and create a business on my own terms. Alter Academy was created to help others do the same, but with a clearer path and support from day one.

It took me several months of regular practice to get confident with picking, and I’m still learning all the time. Like anything hands-on, it’s about consistency. The more time you put in, the quicker you’ll improve. The course breaks it down step by step so you can build your skills faster than I did, with fewer mistakes along the way.

Alter Academy is based in the UK. All training is delivered online, so you can access the courses from anywhere in the world, at any time.

We don’t offer formal apprenticeships, but when you join Alter Academy, you get access to a supportive member community where many locksmiths connect, share advice, and even collaborate on jobs. It’s a great place to build relationships, gain real-world insight, and discover potential opportunities as you grow your skills.

uto locksmithing is in demand worldwide, and the core skills are the same no matter where you’re based. Our training is fully online and accessible globally, so you can learn at your own pace from anywhere. You’ll need to research local laws, vehicle types, and any business requirements in your country, but many of our international members have successfully used the training to launch services in their own regions. Our community is also a great place to ask questions and learn from others doing the same.

While the core tools are similar worldwide, some regions have different vehicle types, key systems, and legal considerations. Inside the course and community, we guide you on choosing the right tools for your needs, and you can ask others in your region for location-specific advice. We also provide recommendations for trusted suppliers that ship internationally, so you can get set up no matter where you’re based.

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The best way to start is by learning the core skills step by step, and that’s exactly what Alter Academy is designed for. Our beginner-friendly courses guide you through everything from lock picking and key programming to tool setup and job preparation. You don’t need any experience — just the motivation to learn. You can start at your own pace, from anywhere, and get support from our member community along the way.

Yes, Alter Academy is designed for complete beginners as well as experienced locksmiths. You’ll start with the basics and build your skills step by step through easy-to-follow video lessons. No prior knowledge is needed, and you’ll have access to a supportive community to help you along the way.

Yes, auto locksmithing can be a highly profitable trade. With the right skills and tools, many locksmiths earn £500–£1,500 per day, often from just a few jobs. It’s a practical, in-demand service with low overheads and strong earning potential once you’re up and running. Our training gives you the skills, guidance, and support to help you get there.

You’ll get access to our private member community where I’m active and regularly involved in answering questions, sharing tips, and supporting members. While I can’t offer 1-to-1 support for everyone, I’m present in the group and also host live Q&A sessions each month to help with anything you’re stuck on.

Yes. New courses are added monthly, and you’ll have ongoing access to live Q&As and our member community. Even after completing all current lessons, there’s always more to learn — continual development helps you take on more advanced jobs and grow your business.

Yes, we cover the most commonly used software like VVDI, Autel, and others within the course. You’ll find step-by-step tutorials, real-world demos, and advice on setup and usage. Plus, our community is a great place to ask questions and get tips from other locksmiths using the same tools.

Common tools include key programmers like Xhorse VVDI, Autel IM508/IM608, and Smart Pro. The right tool depends on your budget and the types of vehicles you want to work on. Our course covers how to use these tools and helps you choose what’s best for your setup, with guidance from both tutorials and the member community.

Yes, we offer guidance on startup essentials, including stationery, branding, and marketing materials like business cards, signage, and flyers. These costs are generally low compared to tools, and we recommend trusted suppliers to help you get set up professionally without overspending.