Do Locksmiths Have to Be Licensed?

Hiring the right locksmith is an important decision. You want to hire someone with experience that holds expertise in their field. It’s also essential that the individual or company whose services you contract be honest and reputable. 

 

Do locksmiths have to be licensed? In short, it depends on the state or city in which you live. It may take research to get the answer.

Do Locksmiths Have to Be Licensed?

Fourteen states require that locksmiths be licensed to offer their services. Those states are:

 

1. Alabama
2. California
3. Connecticut
4. Illinois
5. Louisiana
6. Maryland
7. Nebraska
8. New Jersey
9. Nevada
10. North Carolina
11. Oklahoma
12. Oregon
13. Texas
14. Virginia

 

There are currently some cities that require licensing outside of their state legislation. Those cities are New York City, NY, Hillsborough County, FL; Miami-Dade, FL; and Nassau County on Long Island.

 

The ALOA Security Professionals Association keeps an updated list of states and cities currently requiring locksmiths to be licensed.

Arguments For Locksmith Licenses

Licenses for locksmiths are required to maintain industry standards and to ensure customers’ safety. Each state’s requirements will vary, but typically, the state will want locksmiths to submit an application with their credentials, apply for a background check, and be fingerprinted.

 

The argument for locksmith licenses is that customers can be ensured of quality services and that unprofessional locksmiths or those not qualified will be forced to leave the industry.

 

Creating an industry-standard benefits the customer’s safety, as they’ll know they’re hiring a professional and not a scam artist.

Arguments Against Locksmith Licensing

While it is difficult to imagine an argument against locksmith licensing for some, others prefer to go without it.

 

There are disagreements from some in the field who would rather the government not be involved and disapprove of the fees and extra training that might be required.

 

Both sides have pros and cons, but at the end of the day, locksmiths will need to abide by whatever state and/or local regulations have been legislated.

Do Locksmiths Require a License in Your State

Do locksmiths have to be licensed in your state? You might be wondering where you can find that information. This information will vary state by state, so starting with your state government would be the best place to start.

 

If you don’t find anything at the state level, check your county and city ordinances and try and determine if there are more local laws requiring they be licensed.

If you’re unsure whether or not your state requires a locksmith’s license, you can refer to the ALOA Security Professionals Association.

Before You Go

Do locksmiths have to be licensed? It depends. The answer changes from state to state, and not all states or local governments require that a locksmith be licensed. Many are already members of professional organizations that make concerns about safety and standards less worrisome.

 

Ultimately, research your local area or get in touch with a professional like Locks Around The Clock. Someone with industry expertise can help you make the best choice for your home and family.