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Locksmith
Governing Authority
No state licensing authority
No Locksmith License Required
Tennessee does not require a state license to work as a locksmith. You may still need a local business license or permit. Voluntary certifications such as ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) may enhance your credibility and career opportunities.
Tennessee does not require a state license to work as a locksmith. This means anyone can offer locksmith services without obtaining a state-issued license or permit. You may still need a local business license or permit depending on your city or county. While no state license is needed, voluntary ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) certification is widely recognized by customers and employers and can help establish your credibility.
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Overall licensing difficulty: 1/100
Study recommendation: 1–2 weeks of focused review is usually sufficient
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Tennessee Does Not Require Locksmith Licensing
Tennessee is among the majority of states that do not require a state license to practice as a locksmith. Anyone may offer locksmith services without a state-issued license. However, you may still need a local business license or permit. Voluntary certifications through ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) are widely recognized and may be preferred by customers and employers.
Unlicensed practice is explicitly allowed in this state.
Tennessee repealed its Locksmith Licensing Act in 2021. Previously licensed by the Department of Commerce & Insurance.
Tennessee REPEALED its locksmith licensing requirement in 2021.
Prior to 2021, a state locksmith license was required. This is no longer the case.
Locksmiths may now practice with only a general business license.
ALOA voluntary certification (CRL, CPL, CML) is recommended for professional credibility.
Some municipalities may have their own local licensing requirements.
Locksmith requirements in nearby states
See how Tennessee compares: Locksmith License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
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While Tennessee does not require a state locksmith license, pursuing ALOA certification can improve your career prospects and demonstrate professional competence to customers. Consider CRL (Certified Registered Locksmith), CPL (Certified Professional Locksmith), or CML (Certified Master Locksmith) designations.
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state or local licensing authority.