California requires a locksmith license, apprenticeship hours, and a background check before you can work legally

California is one of the few states that mandates a locksmith license. You cannot legally work as a locksmith in California without one, even if you work for yourself. The state requires you to complete an apprenticeship (usually 10,000 hours over four years), pass a written exam, and clear a background investigation. The Department of Consumer Affairs' Bureau of Security and Investigative Services oversees locksmith licensing.

The path takes time—most people spend four years in apprenticeship before they can sit for the exam. But once licensed, you can work for a locksmith company, start your own business, or move to another state more easily because California's requirements are stricter than most.

Key Takeaways

  • California requires 10,000 hours of paid apprenticeship under a licensed locksmith before you can test for a license.
  • You must pass a written exam covering California locksmith law, security systems, and practical locksmith skills.
  • The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services conducts a background check that includes fingerprinting and a criminal history review.
  • Your apprenticeship employer must be a licensed locksmith or a licensed security company—not just any business with locks.
  • The entire process typically takes four years from start to license, though some people complete it faster with full-time work.

Find a licensed locksmith to work under as an apprentice

You cannot start an apprenticeship on your own. You must be hired by a licensed locksmith or a licensed security company that holds a locksmith endorsement. This is the first and most critical step—without an employer, you cannot log apprenticeship hours.

Search for locksmith companies in your area and ask whether they hire apprentices. Many do, especially larger firms. When you contact them, be clear that you are looking for an apprenticeship position where your hours will count toward state licensing. Some companies may call it a "trainee" or "apprentice" role. Ask the employer to confirm they are licensed with the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services and that they will document your hours on official apprenticeship records.

You do not need a formal apprenticeship certificate from a trade school to start—the on-the-job training under a licensed locksmith is what California requires. However, some community colleges offer locksmith courses that can supplement your apprenticeship and help you understand the theory behind the work.

Log 10,000 hours of paid apprenticeship work

California law requires exactly 10,000 hours of paid work under a licensed locksmith. This is not volunteer time or unpaid training—you must be a paid employee. Your employer is responsible for keeping detailed records of your hours, the tasks you performed, and the dates you worked.

At 40 hours per week, 10,000 hours takes roughly five years. Many apprentices work full-time and finish in four years. Your employer should provide you with a record of hours completed at regular intervals—ask for this documentation quarterly so you can track progress and catch any discrepancies early.

During these hours, you will learn to pick locks, install locks, repair security systems, work with electronic locks, and understand the legal and ethical boundaries of locksmith work. Your employer will teach you on the job. The hours must be documented in writing before you can sit for the licensing exam.

Pass the California locksmith written exam

Once you have completed 10,000 hours, you are may be able to access to sit for the locksmith exam administered by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. The exam tests your knowledge of California locksmith law, security principles, lock mechanisms, and safe practices.

The exam covers topics like the Locksmith Act (the law governing your profession), ethics, types of locks and keys, master key systems, electronic security, and your legal responsibilities. You will also be tested on practical scenarios—for example, what to do if a customer cannot prove they own a property, or how to handle a request that seems illegal.

You must score a passing grade (the Bureau sets the minimum score). If you fail, you can retake the exam, though you may have to wait a set period before your next attempt. Study materials are available through the Bureau's website and through locksmith training programs. Many apprentices study in the final months of their apprenticeship.

Submit fingerprints and pass a background check

The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services requires fingerprinting and a criminal background investigation before you receive your license. You will be fingerprinted through a California Department of Justice process, and the Bureau will review your criminal history.

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain convictions—especially those involving theft, fraud, or violence—may prevent you from being licensed. The Bureau evaluates each case individually. If you have a criminal history, contact the Bureau before you explore to understand whether your record will be a barrier.

The background check also includes a check of your driving record and any civil judgments against you. The process takes several weeks. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid form of identification.

explore for your locksmith license with the Bureau

Once you have completed your apprenticeship hours, passed the exam, and cleared the background check, you submit your license process to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. The process requires proof of your 10,000 hours (signed by your employer), your exam score, and your fingerprint clearance.

The Bureau will review your process and either issue your license or request additional information. Processing typically takes four to eight weeks. Your license is valid for two years and must be renewed. Renewal requires proof that you have worked as a locksmith during the license period and have completed continuing education hours (California requires a small number of hours every two years).

Once licensed, you can work for a locksmith company, start your own locksmith business, or work as an independent contractor. You must display your license number in any advertising and on your business cards.

Understand California locksmith law and ethics

California's Locksmith Act (Business and Professions Code Section 6700 and following) sets strict rules about what you can and cannot do. You cannot pick a lock or open a safe without the owner's permission or a court order. You cannot help someone break into a property they do not own. You cannot duplicate keys without proof that the person requesting the copy owns or has permission to use the lock.

These rules exist to prevent locksmiths from being used for theft or break-ins. As a licensed locksmith, you are expected to verify a customer's right to access before you help them. If a customer asks you to do something that seems illegal or unethical, you can refuse and should report it to the Bureau if it appears to be a crime.

Understanding these boundaries is part of the exam and part of your professional responsibility. Many locksmith companies have policies about what jobs they will and will not take. Ask your apprenticeship employer about their ethical standards early on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a locksmith license in California without an apprenticeship?

No. California law requires 10,000 hours of paid apprenticeship under a licensed locksmith. There is no exam-only route or alternative path. You must work under a licensed locksmith to log the required hours.

How much does it cost to become a locksmith in California?

There is no state fee to log apprenticeship hours—your employer pays you as an employee. The exam fee and license process fee are set by the Bureau; check their website for current amounts. Some people also pay for locksmith training courses or study materials, which vary in cost.

Can I work as a locksmith while I am still in my apprenticeship?

Yes. You are a paid employee during your apprenticeship, so you are working as a locksmith the entire time. You cannot hold a locksmith license until you finish the apprenticeship and pass the exam, but you are performing locksmith work under your employer's license.

What happens if I move to another state after getting my California license?

Each state has its own locksmith licensing rules. Some states recognize California's license or allow you to transfer hours, while others require you to complete their own apprenticeship or exam. Contact the licensing board in the state where you want to work to find out what they require.

Do I need to renew my locksmith license?

Yes. California locksmith licenses are valid for two years. To renew, you must show that you have worked as a locksmith during that period and have completed a small number of continuing education hours set by the Bureau. Renewal is typically straightforward if you have been working in the field.