Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Locksmith License in New Jersey
On a hot summer day, a woman is locked out of her car with two kids inside. A bank needs its security systems beefed up and fortified to keep its employees and customers safe. In another part of town, a man has recently been mugged of all his belongings, including his house keys, preventing him from entering his home. New Jersey residents face these kinds of problems every day. In turn, more locksmith businesses are needed to keep everyone safe before and after an emergency happens.
In this brief article, we will break down the information about the documents, education, training, and examination necessary to obtain a locksmith license in New Jersey.
How Do You Get a Locksmith License in New Jersey?
1. Ensure you meet the requirements for a locksmith license.
Locksmith licenses are administered through the Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm, and Locksmith Advisory Committee of the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (NJDCA). Below are the requirements to obtain a locksmith license.
To obtain an employee or business license:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: A minimum of a high-school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience and training: At least 3 years of hands-on experience, with a minimum of 20 working days per month where you were engaged in full-time locksmithing OR completion of a 2-year apprenticeship with an accredited locksmith and two hours of training is required.
- Criminal background check: Submit a fingerprint card, complete a background check, and pay a fee.
- Complete your application: You can find applications for individuals and businesses here.
- Pictures: Two passport-sized photographs should accompany the application.
- Pass an exam: All applicants must pass a burglar alarm, fire alarm, and locksmith examination.
- Signed affidavit: Your former employer or teacher must confirm that you have the right experience and qualifications to perform the locksmith duties.
- Proof of insurance: Possess general liability insurance if you’re a business owner.
2. Pass a criminal background check.
The NJDCA will conduct a background check on applicants and will provide fingerprinting services on location for a fee of $78.
What criminal history can get you disqualified?
You may be denied a locksmith license if, in the 10 years prior to applying, you have:
- Been convicted of crimes related to locksmithing
- Been convicted of a first, second, or third-degree offense
- Failed to pay child support
If you have a criminal past, you will need to provide details, dates, and names of the parties involved in any offenses.
3. Pass a locksmith licensing exam.
The locksmith examination must be completed with the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors.
How to pass your New Jersey locksmith licensing exam?
Aside from the information you learn on the job or at school, you will want to refresh your knowledge with practice tests so you can ace the exam on your first try. This is where online learning programs, such as the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA), can really give you a leg up. ALOA is a membership organization for locksmiths that aims to help you build your skillset and knowledge, prepare you for state examinations with tailored practice tests, and provide courses for certification.
By joining the organization (for a fee), you will have access to some of the best online training materials (e.g., books, DVDs, courses, webinars, and more) to prepare for your New Jersey licensing exam.
4. Pay application fee.
The New Jersey locksmith licensing exam requires the payment of a non-refundable $150 application fee.
5. Submit your application.
Locksmith license applicants should print, complete, and mail or deliver the application forms to the following address:
Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm, and Locksmith Advisory Committee
PO Box 45042
Newark, New Jersey 07101
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