TL;DR
To find a trustworthy locksmith: verify they have a physical address, check licensing (in states that require it), get 2-3 quotes, ask for written estimates before work begins, and confirm credentials when they arrive. Avoid locksmiths who quote under $30, arrive in unmarked vehicles, or won't show ID.
- Look for locksmiths with verified physical addresses
- Get written estimates—never approve work without one
- Legitimate locksmiths WILL ask for your ID
- Quotes under $30 are almost always bait-and-switch scams
7 Steps to Find a Legitimate Locksmith
Search for Local Locksmiths
Search "[your city] locksmith" and look for businesses with physical addresses—not just phone numbers. Avoid clicking on ads without verifying the business first.
Verify the Business Exists
Check that the address is a real storefront or office, not a vacant lot or residential home. Use Google Street View to verify. Look for how long they've been in business.
Check Licensing (If Required)
Some states require locksmith licenses. If yours does, verify the license is active on your state's licensing board website. No license in a licensed state = illegal operation.
States requiring licenses include: CA, TX, IL, NJ, NC, TN, VA, and others. See full list
Read Reviews Carefully
Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and BBB. Look for: consistent praise over time (not just recent reviews), specific details in reviews, responses from the business, and how they handle complaints.
Get 2-3 Phone Quotes
Call multiple locksmiths and get detailed quotes. Ask about service call fees, labor, and any additional charges. Be wary of quotes significantly lower or higher than others.
Ask the Right Questions
Before they dispatch, ask: "What is your company name and physical address? What is your license number? What is the total cost including all fees? Will you provide a written estimate before starting?"
Verify Credentials on Arrival
When the locksmith arrives: check for a marked vehicle, ask to see their ID/credentials, verify the company name matches who you called, and get a written estimate before they begin work.
Legitimate Locksmith vs Scam Operator
| Legitimate | Scam | |
|---|---|---|
| Phone Answer | Company name clearly stated | Generic 'locksmith services' |
| Phone Quote | $75-$150 realistic range | $15-$35 too-good-to-be-true |
| Business Address | Verifiable physical location | PO Box or fake address |
| Vehicle | Marked with company name | Unmarked personal vehicle |
| ID/Credentials | Shows willingly on request | Refuses or makes excuses |
| Your ID Check | Verifies your ownership | Doesn't ask for ID |
| Written Estimate | Provides before starting | Refuses or 'estimates' verbally |
| Entry Method | Tries non-destructive first | Wants to drill immediately |
| Final Price | Matches estimate | Much higher than quoted |
| Payment | Accepts cards, provides receipt | Cash only, no receipt |
Red Flags to Watch For
Before You Call
- • No physical address listed
- • Only a phone number, no company name
- • Very low prices in ads ($19 lockout!)
- • Brand new Google listing with no reviews
- • Multiple listings at same address
During the Call
- • Won't give company name
- • Can't provide a license number
- • Quotes suspiciously low ($15-$35)
- • Won't commit to a price range
- • Pressures you to decide immediately
On Arrival
- • Arrives in unmarked vehicle
- • Won't show ID or credentials
- • Doesn't ask for YOUR ID
- • Price suddenly much higher
- • Claims lock "needs to be drilled"
After Service
- • Demands cash only
- • Won't provide receipt
- • Receipt has different company name
- • Refuses to leave until paid inflated price
- • Threatens to remove work if not paid
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
On the Phone
- → "What is your company name and physical address?"
- → "Are you licensed? What is your license number?"
- → "What is your total estimate, including all fees?"
- → "Is there a service call or trip fee?"
- → "Will you provide a written estimate before work begins?"
When They Arrive
- → "Can I see your ID and credentials?"
- → "Is your estimate the same as quoted on the phone?"
- → "Can you open this without drilling?"
- → "Will I get an itemized receipt?"
- → "Do you accept credit cards?"
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
- 1 Document everything: Take photos of the receipt, vehicle, and any damage. Note the time, amount charged, and what was said.
- 2 Dispute the charge: If you paid by credit card, contact your card company to dispute the charge. Explain the bait-and-switch or fraudulent practice.
- 3 File complaints: Report to your state's Attorney General, the FTC (ftc.gov), BBB, and your state licensing board if they claim to be licensed.
- 4 Leave honest reviews: Warn others by leaving detailed reviews on Google, Yelp, and other platforms.
- 5 Consider small claims court: For significant overcharges, you may be able to recover money through small claims court.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a locksmith is legitimate?
What should I ask a locksmith before hiring?
How much should a locksmith charge?
Can I trust locksmiths found on Google?
What are signs of a locksmith scam?
Should locksmiths ask for ID?
What if I'm quoted one price but charged more?
Last updated: 2025-12-10