Mobile Locksmith and Key Cutting Service

Homeowners, renters, landlords, property managers and small businesses.

A service call fee plus a price per job (rekeying, lock installation, key cutting), with extra for same-day or after-hours calls. Lock hardware is sold at a markup.

• Mechanical aptitude and patience
• Learning lock types and key cutting
• Friendly, trustworthy manner with customers

• Locksmith licensing differs by state; some require licenses, others do not, so check your state and local rules
• General liability insurance, and consider coverage for your tools and vehicle
• Verify the customer's identity and right to access the property before opening locks
• Lead-generation sites often charge high fees per call; track your costs carefully

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your van, tools, key cutting equipment and insurance. Lead-generation sites often charge high fees per call, so track marketing costs carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on your area, hours and how you find customers. A starting estimate for time commitment is at least about 15 hours a week.

Locksmith licensing differs by state; some require licenses and others do not, so check your state and local rules. Also check insurance for liability, tools and vehicle, and how to verify a customer's identity and right to access a property.