California Locksmith License Practice
Exam Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What type of key is typically used in residential pin tumbler locks?
A. Tubular key
B. Flat key
C. Dimple key
D. Bit key
Flat keys are most commonly used for residential locks due to their
compatibility with pin tumbler systems.
2. What is the primary function of a shear line in a pin tumbler lock?
A. To align the cylinder to the housing
B. To push the key pins upward
C. To allow the plug to rotate when pins are aligned
D. To reset the pins after use
The shear line is where the tops of the pins must align for the cylinder
to rotate freely.
3. What does the term "master keying" refer to?
A. A key that fits only one specific lock
B. A key that opens multiple locks in a system
, C. A key for emergency exits only
D. A backup key
Master keying allows multiple locks to be operated by both
individual keys and a master key for access control.
4. Which California agency issues the locksmith license?
A. CSLB
B. Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)
C. DMV
D. State Contractors Board
The BSIS under the California Department of Consumer Affairs
regulates locksmiths.
5. How long is a California locksmith license valid before renewal?
A. 1 year
B. 3 years
C. 2 years
D. 5 years
California locksmith licenses must be renewed every two years.
6. What must be included on a locksmith's advertisement in California?
A. Phone number
B. Company logo
C. License number
D. License number and business name
Per BSIS regulations, locksmiths must display their license number on
all ads.
7. What is a “warded” lock?
A. A lock with electronic controls
B. A lock with internal barriers that prevent incorrect keys from
turning
C. A lock with master pins
, D. A smart lock
Warded locks use wards (barriers) inside the lock to obstruct keys
that don’t match.
8. Which tool is commonly used for decoding pin tumbler locks?
A. Shim
B. Plug follower
C. Pick gun
D. Decoder pick
Decoder picks are designed to read the height of pins in a lock to
generate a working key.
9. What is “impressioning” in locksmithing?
A. Creating a key by marking blank keys inside the lock
B. Decoding a lock with a key gauge
C. Picking a lock using rakes
D. Removing pins from the plug
Impressioning involves inserting a blank key into the lock and using
the marks made to file a working key.
10. What must be carried at all times while performing locksmith
services in California?
A. Business cards
B. Pocket license issued by BSIS
C. Lock-picking tools
D. Invoice pads
California law requires a locksmith to carry their BSIS-issued pocket
license while working.
11. Which lock mechanism uses angled cuts on the key and side
pins?
A. Pin tumbler
B. Disc detainer
Exam Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What type of key is typically used in residential pin tumbler locks?
A. Tubular key
B. Flat key
C. Dimple key
D. Bit key
Flat keys are most commonly used for residential locks due to their
compatibility with pin tumbler systems.
2. What is the primary function of a shear line in a pin tumbler lock?
A. To align the cylinder to the housing
B. To push the key pins upward
C. To allow the plug to rotate when pins are aligned
D. To reset the pins after use
The shear line is where the tops of the pins must align for the cylinder
to rotate freely.
3. What does the term "master keying" refer to?
A. A key that fits only one specific lock
B. A key that opens multiple locks in a system
, C. A key for emergency exits only
D. A backup key
Master keying allows multiple locks to be operated by both
individual keys and a master key for access control.
4. Which California agency issues the locksmith license?
A. CSLB
B. Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)
C. DMV
D. State Contractors Board
The BSIS under the California Department of Consumer Affairs
regulates locksmiths.
5. How long is a California locksmith license valid before renewal?
A. 1 year
B. 3 years
C. 2 years
D. 5 years
California locksmith licenses must be renewed every two years.
6. What must be included on a locksmith's advertisement in California?
A. Phone number
B. Company logo
C. License number
D. License number and business name
Per BSIS regulations, locksmiths must display their license number on
all ads.
7. What is a “warded” lock?
A. A lock with electronic controls
B. A lock with internal barriers that prevent incorrect keys from
turning
C. A lock with master pins
, D. A smart lock
Warded locks use wards (barriers) inside the lock to obstruct keys
that don’t match.
8. Which tool is commonly used for decoding pin tumbler locks?
A. Shim
B. Plug follower
C. Pick gun
D. Decoder pick
Decoder picks are designed to read the height of pins in a lock to
generate a working key.
9. What is “impressioning” in locksmithing?
A. Creating a key by marking blank keys inside the lock
B. Decoding a lock with a key gauge
C. Picking a lock using rakes
D. Removing pins from the plug
Impressioning involves inserting a blank key into the lock and using
the marks made to file a working key.
10. What must be carried at all times while performing locksmith
services in California?
A. Business cards
B. Pocket license issued by BSIS
C. Lock-picking tools
D. Invoice pads
California law requires a locksmith to carry their BSIS-issued pocket
license while working.
11. Which lock mechanism uses angled cuts on the key and side
pins?
A. Pin tumbler
B. Disc detainer
