North Carolina Locksmith Licensing
Examination Practice Questions And
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant
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1. Which type of lock is considered the most secure for commercial use?
A. Pin tumbler lock
B. Deadbolt lock
C. Wafer lock
D. Padlock
Deadbolt locks are more resistant to picking and forced entry,
making them ideal for commercial security.
2. What is the primary purpose of a master key system?
A. To provide temporary access
B. To allow multiple locks to be opened by a single key
, C. To increase lock resistance to picking
D. To prevent unauthorized key duplication
A master key system enables one key to open several locks, while
individual keys only open their assigned lock.
3. Which tool is commonly used to remove a broken key from a lock
cylinder?
A. Tension wrench
B. Pick gun
C. Broken key extractor
D. Plug spinner
A broken key extractor is specifically designed to grip and remove
broken keys without damaging the lock.
4. In North Carolina, a locksmith license is required to:
A. Sell locks only
B. Install alarms only
C. Engage in opening, repairing, or installing locks for others for
compensation
D. Make keys for personal use
State law requires licensing for anyone performing locksmith services
for others for compensation.
5. What is the purpose of a tension wrench when picking a lock?
A. To cut keys
B. To apply rotational tension to the lock cylinder
, C. To lubricate the lock
D. To measure key depth
The tension wrench applies torque to the cylinder so pins can be set
correctly during picking.
6. Which type of key is commonly used in high-security applications to
prevent unauthorized duplication?
A. Standard house key
B. Skeleton key
C. Restricted key
D. Double-sided key
Restricted keys are patented or controlled, limiting duplication to
authorized locksmiths.
7. Which locksmith tool is used to align pins when picking a lock?
A. Tension wrench
B. Key gauge
C. Pick
D. Plug follower
A pick is used to manipulate pins inside the lock cylinder while
tension is applied.
8. When rekeying a lock, the locksmith primarily changes:
A. The lock’s material
B. The lock’s external design
C. The keying mechanism inside the cylinder
, D. The door frame
Rekeying alters the internal pins so a different key will operate the
lock.
9. What is the main difference between a mortise lock and a cylindrical
lock?
A. Mortise locks are electronic
B. Cylindrical locks are always padlocks
C. Mortise locks are installed in a pocket within the door, cylindrical
locks fit through a hole
D. Cylindrical locks require master keys
Mortise locks require a cavity in the door, while cylindrical locks
mount through a pre-drilled hole.
10. A locksmith must verify a customer’s identity before:
A. Selling blank keys
B. Performing any service on a lock for security purposes
C. Installing a knob
D. Cleaning a key
Verifying identity ensures the locksmith is not aiding unauthorized
access, complying with state regulations.
11. Which is the best method to lubricate a lock cylinder?
A. Water
B. Oil-based lubricant
C. Graphite powder
Examination Practice Questions And
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant
Download Pdf
1. Which type of lock is considered the most secure for commercial use?
A. Pin tumbler lock
B. Deadbolt lock
C. Wafer lock
D. Padlock
Deadbolt locks are more resistant to picking and forced entry,
making them ideal for commercial security.
2. What is the primary purpose of a master key system?
A. To provide temporary access
B. To allow multiple locks to be opened by a single key
, C. To increase lock resistance to picking
D. To prevent unauthorized key duplication
A master key system enables one key to open several locks, while
individual keys only open their assigned lock.
3. Which tool is commonly used to remove a broken key from a lock
cylinder?
A. Tension wrench
B. Pick gun
C. Broken key extractor
D. Plug spinner
A broken key extractor is specifically designed to grip and remove
broken keys without damaging the lock.
4. In North Carolina, a locksmith license is required to:
A. Sell locks only
B. Install alarms only
C. Engage in opening, repairing, or installing locks for others for
compensation
D. Make keys for personal use
State law requires licensing for anyone performing locksmith services
for others for compensation.
5. What is the purpose of a tension wrench when picking a lock?
A. To cut keys
B. To apply rotational tension to the lock cylinder
, C. To lubricate the lock
D. To measure key depth
The tension wrench applies torque to the cylinder so pins can be set
correctly during picking.
6. Which type of key is commonly used in high-security applications to
prevent unauthorized duplication?
A. Standard house key
B. Skeleton key
C. Restricted key
D. Double-sided key
Restricted keys are patented or controlled, limiting duplication to
authorized locksmiths.
7. Which locksmith tool is used to align pins when picking a lock?
A. Tension wrench
B. Key gauge
C. Pick
D. Plug follower
A pick is used to manipulate pins inside the lock cylinder while
tension is applied.
8. When rekeying a lock, the locksmith primarily changes:
A. The lock’s material
B. The lock’s external design
C. The keying mechanism inside the cylinder
, D. The door frame
Rekeying alters the internal pins so a different key will operate the
lock.
9. What is the main difference between a mortise lock and a cylindrical
lock?
A. Mortise locks are electronic
B. Cylindrical locks are always padlocks
C. Mortise locks are installed in a pocket within the door, cylindrical
locks fit through a hole
D. Cylindrical locks require master keys
Mortise locks require a cavity in the door, while cylindrical locks
mount through a pre-drilled hole.
10. A locksmith must verify a customer’s identity before:
A. Selling blank keys
B. Performing any service on a lock for security purposes
C. Installing a knob
D. Cleaning a key
Verifying identity ensures the locksmith is not aiding unauthorized
access, complying with state regulations.
11. Which is the best method to lubricate a lock cylinder?
A. Water
B. Oil-based lubricant
C. Graphite powder
