Locksmith Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Locksmith facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which component in a pin tumbler lock provides upward pressure on the driver pins? → The bible springs
2. These are the two most typical key stops: → Shoulder and tip
3. True or false: A rubberband can help you open some locks → True
4. A locksmith is asked to install a lock rated ANSI/BHMA Grade 1. What does this rating primarily indicate? → The lock meets the highest commercial durability and security standards
5. A locksmith uses a 'code book' or software to look up code 'A1234'. This code is best described as a: → Direct code (blind code)
6. What does the term 'TOK' (Turn of the Key) refer to in automotive locksmithing? → A method of decoding a lock by feel during turning
7. What does the term 'key blank' refer to? → An uncut key that has the correct profile but no bitting cuts yet
8. How many trainees can an experienced technician supervise on a given job site? → 3
9. A 2018 Ford F-150 requires a new key programmed. The customer has zero working keys. Which method would typically be required? → OBD programming using a professional key programmer with the security PIN
10. What is a transponder key? → A key with an embedded microchip that communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer system
11. When using a code machine to cut a key by code, what is the 'direct digit system'? → A system where the code number directly corresponds to the cut depth
12. Which type of electric strike is 'fail-safe' and what does that mean? → It requires power to lock and unlocks when power is cut
13. What does a 'supervised' wireless alarm sensor mean? → It periodically transmits a check-in signal to confirm it is functional
14. Which of the following materials makes the most glaring marks on a key blank? → Brass
15. What is the main function of a central station in a monitored alarm system? → To receive alarm signals and dispatch emergency responders
16. What sort of picks are applied to locks with uninteresting-looking keyways? → Warded
17. In a 'six-pin' pin tumbler lock, a locksmith finds one pin stack has a 'T-pin' (top hat pin). What is its purpose? → It creates a false set during picking, making the lock much harder to pick
18. When rekeying a Schlage B-series deadbolt, what tool is used to depress the retaining clip and remove the plug? → Follow tool (plug follower)
19. The lock that General Motors vehicles most frequently have is... → A sidebar wafer lock
20. A video surveillance system records at 15 fps versus 30 fps. What is the main trade-off of using the lower frame rate? → Reduced storage use but potentially missed fast motion
21. True or False: VIN is an acronym for vehicle identification number → False
22. What is the 'plug' in a pin tumbler cylinder lock? → The rotating inner cylinder that accepts the key and turns to operate the lock mechanism
23. When picking locks, the tension wrench: → Holds the tumblers at the shear line
24. Which type of credential uses a 125 kHz radio frequency and is considered the LEAST secure standard in modern access control? → EM4100 proximity card
25. Inside the lock, where is the tension wrench located? → Bottom
26. What is the most important factor for long-term success in this field? → Continuous learning, practice, and adapting to changes in the industry
27. A customer has a UL-listed TL-30 rated safe. What does 'TL-30' certify? → The safe resists tool attack on the door for a net 30 minutes
28. On a standard key cutting machine, what component holds the key blank in place during cutting? → The carriage clamp (vise)
29. In CCTV system design, what does 'DORI' stand for? → Detection, Observation, Recognition, Identification
30. What is a 'floating' or 'variable' shear line in a high-security sidebar lock? → An additional sidebar that must align for the cylinder to rotate