Master Key Systems & Key Control Flashcards
7 cards from real CRL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Master Key Systems & Key Control flashcards as text
In a master key system, what is the function of a 'change key'?
Answer: It opens only one specific lock within the system
A change key (also called a servant key) is cut to operate only one specific lock within a master key system.
What term describes a key that operates all locks within a specific group or section of a master key system?
Answer: Master key
A master key is designed to operate all locks within a specific group or section, sitting one level above change keys in the hierarchy.
In a master key system hierarchy, what does a 'Grand Master Key' (GMK) operate?
Answer: Multiple groups or sections, each of which has its own master key
A Grand Master Key operates all locks across multiple sections or groups that each have their own master key, sitting above the master key level.
What does 'MACS' stand for in master key system design?
Answer: Maximum Adjacent Cut Specification
MACS (Maximum Adjacent Cut Specification) is the maximum allowable difference between adjacent cuts on a key, ensuring reliable operation without binding.
Which key occupies the apex of a complex master key system hierarchy and operates every lock in the entire system?
Answer: Top master key
The top master key is the highest-level key in a master key hierarchy, capable of operating every lock throughout the entire system.
What is a 'sub-master key' in a master key system?
Answer: A key that operates a defined subset of locks within a larger master key group
A sub-master key operates a specific subset of locks within a larger group, sitting between the change key and the master key in the hierarchy.
What is the primary purpose of a 'key control' system in a locksmith's security recommendations?
Answer: To prevent unauthorized key duplication
Key control systems are designed to prevent unauthorized key duplication, ensuring only authorized personnel can obtain additional keys to a facility.
How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- aloa.org — Score release, test delivery, eligibility, exam format, test dates, exam information · verified Nov 2026
- aloamembers.org — Fees, retake fee, retake policy · verified Oct 2026