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How to become a licensed Locksmith in Alabama. Data verified 2026-03-21. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Locksmith
Yes
License Required
Yes
Exam Required
Required
Background Check
Not Required
Insurance
Not Required
Surety Bond
$238.25
Total Initial Fees
Training & Certification
VerifiedFormal Education
Not Required
Training Hours
Not Specified
Apprenticeship
Available
ALOA Certification Accepted
Yes
Additional Certifications
States that license locksmiths may require specific training hours, approved education programs, or ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) certification. Some states also accept apprenticeship experience as an alternative to formal education.
Examination Details
VerifiedRequired
Exam Required
ALOA PRP exam or AESBL Locksmith Test
Exam Type
Yes
ALOA Exam Accepted
Exam Details
Applicants must pass the ALOA Proficiency Registration Program (PRP) exam or the AESBL Locksmith Test covering lock mechanisms and key systems
Passing Score
70%
Licensed states may require a state-specific exam, an ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) exam, or both. Exam content typically covers lock mechanisms, key systems, security hardware, and relevant state laws.
Criminal Background & Fingerprinting
VerifiedRequired
Background Check
Required
Fingerprinting
Criminal History Disqualifiers
Criminal history reviewed on a case-by-case basis; convictions involving theft, burglary, or breaking and entering may disqualify
Due to the security-sensitive nature of locksmithing, most licensed states require criminal background checks and fingerprinting. Certain felony convictions, particularly those involving theft, burglary, or fraud, may disqualify applicants from obtaining a locksmith license.
Liability Insurance & Surety Bond
VerifiedLiability Insurance
Not Required
Surety Bond
Not Required
Some states require locksmiths to carry liability insurance and/or a surety bond to protect consumers. Insurance requirements typically cover general liability, while surety bonds protect against fraudulent or improper work by the locksmith.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Application Fee | $150 |
License Fee | $50 |
Renewal Fee | $50 |
Background Check Fee | $38.25 |
Total Initial Fees Includes administration fee ($150), individual license ($50), and background check ($38.25) | $238.25 |
Renewal & CE Requirements
Verified2 years
Renewal Period
12 hrs
CE Hours Required
CE Topics
Renewal Fee
$50
Regulatory Board
Locksmith licenses must be renewed on schedule. Some states require continuing education covering topics such as lock technology, security systems, and relevant state laws. Background check updates may also be required at renewal.
Out-of-State Reciprocity
VerifiedAccepts Out-of-State Credentials
Endorsement Available
No
Reciprocity Requirements
Must meet all Alabama requirements independently; no formal reciprocity agreements. ALOA PRP certification accepted.
Portability Details
Alabama does not have reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state locksmiths must apply for a new license.
Locksmith license reciprocity varies between states. Because most states do not license locksmiths, transferring credentials is primarily relevant for the ~15 states that require licensing. Background checks are typically required regardless of prior licensure.
Alabama licenses locksmiths through the Electronic Security Board of Licensure (AESBL), which also oversees alarm system installers. Individual locksmiths must work under a licensed company. The ALOA PRP exam is accepted in lieu of the AESBL test.
Alabama requires locksmiths to be licensed through the AESBL.
Individual locksmiths must work under a licensed locksmith company.
The ALOA Proficiency Registration Program (PRP) exam is accepted for licensing.
A state and federal background check with fingerprinting is required.
12 hours (1.2 CEUs) of continuing education required per renewal cycle.
Company licenses are separate: $300 for sole proprietors, $400 for corporations/LLCs.
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in Alabama.
How this state compares to 50 others for this profession
Timeline
#40 of 51
Salary
#42 of 51
Cost
#9 of 51
Processing
#1 of 51
Based on May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers (SOC 49-9094)
Entry Level
$33,870
25th percentile
Median
$44,140
-13% vs. national avg ($50,490)Experienced
$46,800
75th percentile
Wage Distribution (Annual)
190 employed in this state
Source: BLS OEWS – Locksmiths and Safe Repairers (May 2024)
National employment projections for 2024-2034
Projected Growth
+1%
Below AverageNew Jobs
+200
over 10 years
Annual Openings
1,800
per year (avg.)
15,200 currently employed nationwide (2024)
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034 (September 2025)
Government fees and exam costs to obtain your initial license
Note: These are government licensing fees only. Education/training program costs (tuition, books, etc.) are not included as they vary widely by institution.
Estimated total: 16–56 weeks
Timeline estimated from licensing requirements on this page.
Source: Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure — Licensing Requirements
2–6 weeks
Estimated processing time
Source: Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure — Licensing Requirements
Study materials for locksmith certification and licensing exams.
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Alabama requires a license for locksmiths. A background check is required. All licensing is managed through the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure.
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state or local licensing authority.