Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Trades
Locksmith Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for locksmith in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Locksmith in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Locksmith Licensing Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,190 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Locksmith licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Locksmith Licensing Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $42,190, Locksmiths in North Carolina earn 16% below the national median of $50,490. North Carolina ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$42,190Hourly estimate
$20.2816% below national median
Difference: -$8,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLocksmith Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $42,190 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $57,990 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $45,110 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $61,610 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $45,950 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Locksmith Licensing Board
P.O. Box 10972, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Phone: 9198388782
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $69,320 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $47,630 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $65,830 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Locksmith in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Locksmiths in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Locksmiths.
What education do you need to become a Locksmith in North Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Locksmith licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Locksmith salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Locksmiths in North Carolina is $42,190. Salaries range from $28,090 (10th percentile) to $69,160 (90th percentile).
How does the Locksmith salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Locksmiths in North Carolina earn 16% below the national median of $50,490, with a state median of $42,190.
How many Locksmiths work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 520 Locksmiths according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Locksmith license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Locksmiths in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Locksmith Licensing Board. Review agency details at http://www.nclocksmithboard.org/.
How often do you renew a Locksmith license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.