Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Trades
Locksmith Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for locksmith in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Locksmith in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,500 median (22% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 61,500, Locksmiths in California earn 22% above the national median of $50,490. California ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$61,500Hourly estimate
$29.5722% above national median
Difference: +$11,010
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLocksmith Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Locksmith median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Rhode Island | 73,120 |
| #2 | Connecticut | 64,470 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 62,670 |
| #4 | Georgia | 61,610 |
| #5 | California | 61,500 |
Nearby States Comparison
Locksmith licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $61,500 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $49,780 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $54,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $43,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
PO Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA, 95798
Phone: 9163224000
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $74,820 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $76,540 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $137,340 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $65,290 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Locksmith in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Locksmith salary in California?
The median annual salary for Locksmiths in California is 61,500. Salaries range from $46,950 (10th percentile) to $88,950 (90th percentile).
How does the Locksmith salary in California compare to the national average?
Locksmiths in California earn 22% above the national median of $50,490, with a state median of 61,500.
How many Locksmiths work in California?
California employs approximately 2,130 Locksmiths according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Locksmith license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Locksmiths in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Review agency details at https://www.bsis.ca.gov/.