How to Become a Locksmith — WA

How to Become a Locksmith in Washington State

Last checked: 2026-10-24. If you are researching how to become a locksmith in Washington State, here is the exact process, with official sources, current fees, and city-by-city details for Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane.

Do you need a state locksmith license?

Washington does not issue a state locksmith license. Instead, locksmith businesses must comply with Washington’s general business licensing, local city business licenses, consumer-protection rules for locksmith advertising, and (when applicable) contractor and electrical licensing for installation work.

• Advertising rule for locksmiths: If you represent yourself to the public as a locksmith, your website and ads must conspicuously display either your Washington business license number or your Unified Business Identifier (UBI). Misrepresenting your business location in ads is prohibited. Violations are enforceable under the Consumer Protection Act. (See RCW 19.355.010–.030). ([app.leg.wa.gov](https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=19.355&full=true))

Step-by-step checklist

1. Choose your structure (sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, etc.). If forming an LLC/corporation in Washington, file with the WA Secretary of State (SOS) first, then proceed to state business licensing.
   • WA SOS filing (LLC): online filing lists a $180 filing fee plus an online processing fee. SOS also publishes a consolidated LLC resource page and fee schedule. Contact the Corporations & Charities Division at 360-725-0377. ([sos.wa.gov](https://www.sos.wa.gov/ko/node/30080?utm_source=openai))
2. Apply for a Washington Business License and UBI through the Department of Revenue’s Business Licensing Service (BLS) in My DOR.
   • Processing time: DOR states about 10 business days to process the application; city or state endorsements can add 2–3 weeks. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/business-licensing-and-renewals-faqs?utm_source=openai))
   • Current BLS processing fees (effective): Open/reopen a business/UBI: $50; add location: $0; add a city non‑resident endorsement: $0; other changes (e.g., trade name): $10; annual renewal processing: $5. Trade names are $5 per name. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/apply-business-license/variable-business-license-processing-fees?utm_source=openai))
   • Apply online: My DOR “Apply for a new business license.” If you’re an LLC/corporation, form with SOS before filing the BLS application. BLS collects city endorsements in one filing. Help: 360‑705‑6741 or bls@dor.wa.gov. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/my-dor-help/renew-or-update-business-license/apply-new-business-license?utm_source=openai))
3. Register any trade name (DBA) during your BLS application (optional if you’ll operate under the legal entity name). Fee: $5 per name. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/grow-business/register-trade-names?utm_source=openai))
4. Obtain required city business licenses (endorsements) for where you operate.
   • Most Washington cities require a general business license/endorsement to operate or to do business within city limits. You can add these endorsements in the BLS application or apply via FileLocal where available. See city specifics below. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))
5. Decide the scope of work you will offer and add any work‑specific registrations:
   • Mechanical locks only (rekey, hardware swap on doors, safes): If you perform work that improves/repairs real property (e.g., install/replace locksets, door hardware) as a business for others, Washington generally treats that as construction contracting; you must register as a contractor with L&I (usually as a specialty contractor for this trade). Registration requires a surety bond and general liability insurance. As of July 1, 2024, the bond minimums are $30,000 (general) and $15,000 (specialty); proof of liability insurance is required. Contact L&I Contractor Registration at 1‑800‑647‑0982. ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/news-events/article/24-13?utm_source=openai))
   • Electronic access control, intrusion/burglar alarms, or other low‑voltage systems: Any electrical work in WA requires appropriate electrical contractor licensing and a certified electrician/trainee under L&I. Access control and intrusion systems are covered by the Limited Energy (06) specialty. See WAC 296‑46B‑920 and related L&I electrical licensing pages. Electrical Program contact: 360‑902‑5269. ([apps.leg.wa.gov](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=296-46B-920&utm_source=openai))
6. Comply with locksmith advertising rules (display your state or local business license number or your UBI on your website and all ads). ([app.leg.wa.gov](https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=19.355&full=true))
7. Set up taxes and accounts: DOR will assign excise tax filing frequency; register for workers’ comp and Employment Security if you hire. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/new-business-information?utm_source=openai))
8. Get insurance (recommended, and often required by clients): Many locksmiths carry at least $1M general liability. If registering as a contractor, L&I requires proof of liability insurance in specified minimums along with your bond. ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/forms-publications/F625-001-000.pdf?utm_source=openai))
9. Optional: build credibility with training/credentials:
   • ALOA PRP certifications via ALOA Security Professionals Association. ([aloa.org](https://www.aloa.org/certifications?utm_source=openai))
   • CITC WA courses for 06 limited‑energy and access control (approved by L&I for CE). ([ceu.citcwa.org](https://ceu.citcwa.org/product/intro-to-06-technologies-oct10/?utm_source=openai))

City-by-city: Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane

Apply for city endorsements in My DOR (BLS) or FileLocal where noted.

City	Is a city license required?	2026 fee structure (general business)	Thresholds/exemptions	Where to apply	Help/phone
Seattle	Yes — Seattle business license tax certificate (aka general business license).	Tiered annual fees based on prior-year Seattle taxable revenue: 2026 fees are $73 (<$20k), $147 ($20k–$499,999), $667 ($500k–$1.999M), $1,604 ($2M–$4.999M), $3,210 (≥$5M); +$10 per branch. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))	Out-of-city businesses with ≤$4,000 in Seattle gross revenue are exempt from the license, but regulatory endorsements still apply. ([seattle.gov](https://www.seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))	FileLocal or via BLS endorsement. ([cityofseattle.org](https://www.cityofseattle.org/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/manage-your-account-online?utm_source=openai))	City Finance Customer Service: 206‑684‑8484. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/customer-service?utm_source=openai))
Tacoma	Yes — City of Tacoma business license.	Annual fee based on worldwide gross income: 2024–2026 table shows $37 (under $12k/branch), $190 ($12k–$250k), $435 ($250k–$1M), $1,500 ($1M–$5M), $2,000 (≥$5M). ([tacoma.gov](https://tacoma.gov/government/departments/finance/taxes-and-licenses/business-licensing/business-license-fees/?utm_source=openai))	Out‑of‑city businesses with <= $4,000 Tacoma revenue are exempt (effective Jan 1, 2026) unless a regulatory license/tax applies. ([tacoma.gov](https://tacoma.gov/government/departments/finance/taxes-and-licenses/business-licensing/?utm_source=openai))	FileLocal or directly with Tacoma Tax & License. ([tacomapermits.org](https://www.tacomapermits.org/tip-sheet-index/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))	Tacoma Tax & License: 253‑591‑5252. ([tacoma.gov](https://tacoma.gov/government/departments/finance/taxes-and-licenses/business-licensing/?utm_source=openai))
Spokane	Yes — City of Spokane general business license (via BLS partnership).	Base city license fee $131; additional personnel fee(s) may apply; initial BLS processing fee $50; renewal processing $5. Online applications are usually processed within ~2 business days (mail up to 21 days). ([my.spokanecity.org](https://my.spokanecity.org/business/doing-business/get-started/?utm_source=openai))	License is required for any business located in or conducting business within city limits. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/city-endorsements/spokane?utm_source=openai))	Through BLS (endorsement added to your WA Business License). ([my.spokanecity.org](https://my.spokanecity.org/business/doing-business/licenses/?utm_source=openai))	Spokane Taxes & Licenses: 509‑625‑6070. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/city-endorsements/spokane?utm_source=openai))

Unincorporated counties

• King County (unincorporated): No general county business license; certain regulated activities require county licensing. Zoning/permit compliance still applies. ([kingcounty.gov](https://kingcounty.gov/en/shared-topics/certificates-permits-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))
• Pierce County (unincorporated): No general county business license except for certain categories. ([piercecountywa.gov](https://www.piercecountywa.gov/355/Business-Licensing?utm_source=openai))

Typical fees, timelines, and bonds

• State Business License (BLS) processing fees: Open/reopen $50; trade name $5; renewal processing $5. Processing time about 10 business days, plus 2–3 weeks if city endorsements need approval. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/apply-business-license/variable-business-license-processing-fees?utm_source=openai))
• City endorsements: See city table above for 2026 amounts and thresholds. Seattle posts a full 2025–2027 fee table; Spokane posts its base fee and processing details; Tacoma posts 2024–2026 fees by gross income. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))
• Contractor registration (if applicable): Bond minimums since July 1, 2024: $30,000 (general) / $15,000 (specialty); proof of liability insurance required. Mail-in processing currently 3–4 weeks after receipt. Contacts: Contractor Registration 1‑800‑647‑0982. ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/news-events/article/24-13?utm_source=openai))
• Electrical (06 Limited Energy) licensing (if applicable): Required for access control/intrusion systems and other limited‑energy work scopes; see WAC 296‑46B‑920 and L&I Electrical Program 360‑902‑5269. ([apps.leg.wa.gov](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=296-46B-920&utm_source=openai))

Training and credentials (recommended)

• ALOA Proficiency Registration Program (PRP) — industry-recognized certifications across locksmithing specialties. ([aloa.org](https://www.aloa.org/certifications?utm_source=openai))
• CITC Washington — L&I‑approved continuing education and programs covering 06 limited energy, access control, alarm systems, and NEC/RCW/WAC content. Contacts: 877‑238‑8646; ceu@citcwa.com. ([ceu.citcwa.org](https://ceu.citcwa.org/product/intro-to-06-technologies-oct10/?utm_source=openai))

Startup gear and budget (typical, not regulated)

Costs vary by services offered. A lean mobile locksmith kit commonly includes key machines, decoders, picks, pinning kits, key blanks, a basic automotive programmer, and insurance. Automotive‑focused setups add electronic key cutters and more advanced programmers.

• Example price points: entry automotive key‑programming bundles and cutters often range from hundreds to a few thousand dollars depending on brand and capability. Vendor listings commonly show bundles between roughly <$500 to ~$2,500+, and advanced kits higher. Use vendor specs to right‑size purchases. ([xhorsetool.us](https://xhorsetool.us/category/remote-keys-transponders?utm_source=openai))

FAQ

Do I need a state locksmith license in Washington?

No state locksmith license exists. You must follow consumer‑protection rules for locksmith advertising (display your business license or UBI on ads), hold a Washington Business License/UBI, obtain local city endorsements where you operate, and register as an L&I contractor and/or electrical contractor if your work falls under those scopes. ([app.leg.wa.gov](https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=19.355&full=true))

When do I need contractor registration?

If you install, alter, or repair fixtures or hardware on real property for others (e.g., installing locksets/door hardware as part of a job), you generally must register with L&I as a contractor and maintain required bond and insurance. Bond minimums since July 1, 2024 are $30,000 (general) and $15,000 (specialty). ([lni.wa.gov](https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/register-as-a-contractor/index?utm_source=openai))

When do I need an electrical (06) license?

Any electrical work, including limited‑energy systems such as electronic access control, intrusion/burglar alarms, and related low‑voltage cabling, requires appropriate electrical contractor licensing and certified electricians/trainees under L&I’s 06 Limited Energy scope. ([apps.leg.wa.gov](https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=296-46B-920&utm_source=openai))

How long does it take to get set up?

• Business License/UBI approval about 10 business days (plus 2–3 weeks if city approvals are needed). ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/business-licensing-and-renewals-faqs?utm_source=openai))
• City licenses vary: Seattle issues online within a few days after payment; Spokane notes ~2 business days online and up to 21 days by mail. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/business-licenses?utm_source=openai))
• L&I contractor registration by mail: currently 3–4 weeks after L&I receives your complete packet. ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/contractors/register-as-a-contractor/?utm_source=openai))

What insurance or bonds are required?

• Contractors: Surety bond and liability insurance are mandatory with L&I registration. ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/news-events/article/24-13?utm_source=openai))
• Non‑contractor locksmiths: No state‑mandated bond, but general liability is strongly recommended and often required by commercial clients. Always meet any insurance requirements in client contracts or local rules. (General state rule reference provided via L&I/RCW where applicable.) ([lni.wa.gov](https://www.lni.wa.gov/news-events/article/24-13?utm_source=openai))

What about background checks?

Washington does not require a state locksmith license or background check specific to locksmithing. If you register as an electrical trainee/journeyman or contractor, you must meet L&I’s identification and experience documentation requirements for those credentials. Some city or client contracts may impose their own checks. ([lni.wa.gov](https://lni.wa.gov/forms-publications/F626-048-000.pdf?utm_source=openai))

Are there special city rules for alarms?

Yes. For example, Seattle requires alarm monitoring companies to hold a regulatory license and bills for false alarms; this is separate from your general business license. ([citylink.seattle.gov](https://www.citylink.seattle.gov/business-regulations/alarm-system-monitoring?utm_source=openai))

Key contacts

• WA Department of Revenue — Business Licensing Service (BLS): 360‑705‑6741; bls@dor.wa.gov; general licensing help and My DOR support. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/update-my-business?utm_source=openai))
• WA Secretary of State — Corporations & Charities: 360‑725‑0377 (entity filings). ([sos.wa.gov](https://www.sos.wa.gov/about-office/contact-us?utm_source=openai))
• L&I Contractor Registration: 1‑800‑647‑0982. L&I Electrical Program: 360‑902‑5269. ([lni.wa.gov](https://lni.wa.gov/agency/contact/?utm_source=openai))
• Seattle City Finance (business licenses/taxes): 206‑684‑8484. ([seattle.gov](https://seattle.gov/city-finance/business-taxes-and-licenses/customer-service?utm_source=openai))
• City of Tacoma Tax & License: 253‑591‑5252. ([tacoma.gov](https://tacoma.gov/government/departments/finance/taxes-and-licenses/business-licensing/?utm_source=openai))
• City of Spokane — Taxes & Licenses: 509‑625‑6070. ([dor.wa.gov](https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/city-endorsements/spokane?utm_source=openai))

Next steps

1. Decide structure and (if using an LLC/corp) file with SOS.
2. Apply for your WA Business License/UBI in My DOR; add city endorsements and any trade names.
3. Scope your services: if installing hardware on structures, complete L&I contractor registration; if doing access control/alarms, obtain appropriate electrical licensing (06).
4. Set up insurance, bank accounts, and tax filings; publish your UBI or license number on your website and ads.
5. Invest in training (ALOA PRP, CITC courses) and essential tools sized to your service mix.

SEO note

For searchers: this page covers how to become a locksmith in Washington State with current official fees, forms, and city rules.