Locksmith Salary Texas: How Much Do Locksmiths Earn in 2025?

When you think about locksmith, a skilled professional who installs, repairs, and opens locks without damaging them. Also known as security technician, it’s a trade that’s always in demand—whether it’s a homeowner locked out, a business needing new key systems, or a car dealer requiring ignition repairs. In Texas, where cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin are growing fast, the need for reliable locksmiths isn’t fading. It’s growing.

Locksmiths in Texas don’t just turn keys—they manage access control systems, program electronic locks, and respond to emergencies 24/7. Their pay isn’t set by a union or a government scale. It’s shaped by experience, location, and whether they work for a company or run their own business. A new locksmith might start at $15–$20 an hour, but after a few years, many earn $25–$35 an hour. Those with their own trucks, tools, and client lists? They often pull in $60,000 to $85,000 a year. Some top earners in high-demand areas hit six figures, especially if they handle commercial jobs like safes, vaults, or hotel key systems.

What makes the difference? Texas locksmith licensing, a state requirement for anyone working professionally in lock and security systems. Also known as Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) certification, it’s not optional if you want to work legally. Without it, you can’t get insurance, bid on contracts, or even drive a service van in many cities. Then there’s electronic access control, the shift from mechanical locks to digital systems like keycards, biometrics, and remote monitoring. Also known as smart lock systems, it’s where the real money is now. Locksmiths who learn these skills don’t just stay employed—they get paid more. And don’t forget emergency response, the ability to show up fast when someone’s locked out at midnight. Also known as 24/7 service, it’s what turns a good locksmith into a trusted local name.

Most of the posts you’ll find here come from people asking the same thing: Is this job worth it? Can I make a living without a college degree? The answer is yes—if you’re willing to learn, show up, and build trust. You won’t get rich overnight, but you won’t need to take on student debt either. You’ll learn by doing, earn while you train, and build something that’s yours: a reputation, a client list, and a business that can outlast any economic shift.

Below, you’ll find real posts from people who’ve walked this path. They’ll show you what locksmiths actually earn in different parts of Texas, how training works, what tools you need, and how to avoid scams that promise quick riches. No fluff. No hype. Just what works.