Question: When should you verify a locksmith?
Answer: BEFORE you hire one.

That answer should be SIMPLE. Otherwise, why would you want to NOT verify a locksmith’s credentials or licenses? There are so many people out there claiming to be something they are not these days, it would just be an un-safe decision to make. While the government is starting to pay attention and understand that possibly all locksmiths should be licensed as well as pass a criminal background check.  With all of this government work going on, it’s hard to believe that still, not ALL states require a locksmith to be licensed. In fact, many counties throughout the United States do not even require a simple business license to be a locksmith. It is a comforting thought to know that A-1Locksmith, regardless of requirements, is licensed to do business and is a member of the Better Business Bureau.

So, do you hire a locksmith from Craigslist?

Well, honestly, that is up to you; however, think about it. Craigslist allows anonymous postings. ANYONE could be your locksmith. Craigslist set the rule in place where no locksmithing tools could be sold on the site; however, somehow, Craigslist deemed it appropriate to allow anyone claiming to be a locksmith, licensed or not, to advertise their services on Craigslist. Hey, Craigslist is a wonderful place to advertise free locally; however when the safety of your home or business is the matter at hand, you would be better off hiring a licensed professional locksmith such as A-1Locksmith.

But what if I am locked out and I have no way to verify a locksmith’s credentials?

Ok, another simple answer: Ask to see a driver’s license of the person whom is offering the services. Simply because someone has the skill or knowledge to locksmith does NOT mean he or she is legitimate. After all, doesn’t the electric company have identification to offer you if you ask? Does a bank cash your check without identification? You don’t know who they are and you have the RIGHT to ask who they are. NOW, if the locksmith doesn’t have a driver’s license, STOP. That is a warning that they might not be who they say they are. It is against the law to operate a vehicle in the United States without a license. Anyone can print a fancy business card, so they are unacceptable as forms of identification. It’s important to remember that licensed locksmiths need a vehicle capable of carrying key machines and other equipment to assist in emergencies.

It seems that the national standard price for car lockouts is between $40 and $75 dollars. Anything more than that would really need to be justified and it shouldn’t ever exceed $100. If your locksmith or car lockout service cannot open your car in 15 minutes or less, CALLanother company.

For all of your locksmithing needs, call A-1 Locksmith at (972) 284-7500 for the call center or for Emergency service, call (972) 284-7516. A-1 Locksmith offers competitive pricing and years of experience and is a name you CAN trust.