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Maryland Locksmith Consumer Advisory - Locksmiths

Warning: Some locksmiths advertising in the local telephone book or internet may not be licensed by the Maryland Locksmith Licensing Program, have professional training, and/ or use intimidating tactics to overcharge you.

Prepare today, before you have a need:

  • Contact family or friends to get a recommendation of a previous locksmith service provider.
  • In Maryland, all locksmiths are required to be licensed. Further, all employees providing services under the licensed locksmith are required to be reported to and approved by the Department, and will appear under the licensee in the license search tab of this website, if approved.
  • Contact several locksmiths and request their business street address. This will assist you in determining if the provider is a mobile, home based, or a storefront service.
  • Find out if the locksmith has insurance, should you incur damage or loss. The Maryland Locksmith Licensing Program requires general liability insurance for all licensees.

When you need emergency services:

Car lockout
Today’s drivers have some type of roadside assistance. If you have a AAA membership, other roadside assistance that is part of a car purchase/ lease contract or car insurance, you will want to contact them first.

Home/Car lockout
Ask a family member, friend or trusted neighbor to meet with you and the locksmith.

  • Request an estimate for the service call and service to be performed. When the technician arrives, inquire of any additional cost. After the work is completed, the itemized invoice that includes the total quoted cost provided before service, type of lock serviced, total amount paid for service, and VIN number for automobile locks serviced. The invoice should include the customer’s name, service address/ location and locksmith license number.
  • Maryland licensed locksmiths and their employees are required to carry an identification card that you may request. The ID card must include the photo of the locksmith/ locksmith’s employee, along with the locksmith license number under which services are being provided.
  • You should expect to identify yourself with proper identification confirming your right to enter the property that is being unlocked.

If you encounter a problem with a locksmith in Maryland:

Try to resolve the dispute with the company first. Be sure to immediately make the company aware of the dispute. If you are unable to get the matter favorably resolved, consider filing a complaint with the Maryland Locksmith Licensing Program. You will find the form on this website on the For Consumers page.