Unauthorized locksmith - Go Away!

As someone who has been working in this business for years, providing locksmith services in Albuquerque, NM day and night, I would like to warn people who live in other places across the states about unreliable companies, that are supposed to take care of their security.

When you hire a locksmith and he arrives at your home (or wherever it is you need their service) the first thing you must do is ask to see his license. Every reputable locksmith, no matter how large or small the company he works in might be, will have a license to show you. It is not just a good business practice to have a state locksmith license. It is absolutely required by law.

Why hire a company with a license?       

Locksmiths who have a license are running an authorized and reputable business. For the states that require this license, these locksmiths had to sit through an actual exam given by the state. Furthermore, they had to pass their exams showing that they do indeed know the facets of their craft well.

What could happen if they don't have a license?

Credit: http://www.flamskeyservice.com/

Locksmith companies that do not have a license are often scams. This is not to say that all unlicensed companies are fraudulent, but how would you know? 

The mere fact that they haven't taken the step to prove themselves as a legitimate business should be enough to dissuade you from hiring them. Around the United States there are states with entire police divisions set up to bust illegal locksmith operations who are really criminals in disguise.

How do you know if the license is real?       

When the locksmith arrives at your home they should do so in a company vehicle. This vehicle should have their license number on it somewhere. Even if their vehicle does show their license number, you should ask to see their paper license. 

Once you have this you can either call the state to verify their business or use one of the many locksmith license registries online (that are free) to verify their company as safe and secure. If they are not a state authorized locksmith company, immediately send them away from your home!Should you have any questions about something I might not have covered in this post, or any rip off occasions you have been a victim of in the past - I will be more than grateful if you mention it in the comments below!