Locksmithing is a profession and an art of designing and producing locks and other protective hardware mechanisms that secures buildings, objects, storage facilities, cabinets, rooms and other places. After a long journey through history, the art of Locksmithing went through many changes. For the longest period of time, locksmiths were talented metalworkers who had the knowledge of shaping metal, creating by hand dozens of individual pieces of the locks, forging keys, and doing much of the file-work.
TOOL was founded in 1994 for the purpose of promoting cooperation among locksmiths throughout the state. Since its inception, TOOL has been the leading force within the state in the areas of education and legislation. It is our goal to promote the highest levels of professionalism within the industry and to provide protection to the consumer.
TOOL continues to lead in the areas of education and legislation and achieved its biggest feat to date in 2006 with the passage of the “Tennessee Locksmith Licensing Act of 2006.” During the 2010 legislative session, TOOL, with the cooperation of the other Tennessee locksmith associations, was able to persuade the General Assembly to incorporate a criminal penalty into the exisitng code to help with tougher enforecement. TOOL has been working diligently to provide classes and state approved instructors to meet continuing education requirement set forth by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.
TOOL offers continuing education in all aspects of the locksmithing industry. Along with our regular Board meetings, we offer an outstanding variety of classes from Basic Lock Servicing to Safe Manipulation and more. All of these classes are offered at some of the most competative rates in the country. Become a member of TOOL and you will receieve even better rates on these great classes. Our meetings are always full of surprises, so come and see what we have to offer.
Membership fees are $100 a year. If you are a locksmith working in Tennessee, you must have a valid Tennessee locksmith or apprentice license. Locksmiths working outside of Tennesse are also welcome with a valid state license (if your state requires it) or a valid business license. Manufacturer or distributor personnel are also welcome as associate members. You can apply online here. We would love to see you at our next meeting.
Read or download the TOOL By Laws here.