Getting locked out is stressful, but it's rarely an emergency on its own — and that matters, because scammers prey on panic. Here's how to handle it calmly and avoid getting overcharged.
First, a safety check
If a child or pet is locked inside a hot car or a home and in danger, call 911 first — fire departments can respond fast to true emergencies. Then call a locksmith. For a normal lockout, take a breath and work through the steps below.
Quick things to try
- Check every other door and window — a side or back door is often unlocked.
- Ask whether anyone (a partner, roommate, neighbor or landlord) has a spare key.
- If you have a smart lock or keypad, try the app or a backup code.
- If none of that works, call a licensed locksmith for fast, damage-free entry.
How to avoid the locksmith scam
The most common locksmith scam is a bait-and-switch: a cheap price gets you to call, then an unlicensed tech inflates the bill on site, often demanding cash. Protect yourself:
- Be wary of rock-bottom prices like "$15 service call" — they rarely end there.
- Ask for the company name and license number before they come. California locksmiths carry a BSIS license (ours is LCO 7573).
- Expect a marked vehicle and a tech who verifies you're authorized to enter.
- Get the total price up front, and avoid anyone who only takes cash.
- A real locksmith can open most home locks without drilling — immediate talk of drilling your lock is a red flag.
What a legitimate lockout looks like
A licensed locksmith gives you an upfront price, shows up in a marked vehicle, checks ID or proof of residency, opens the door without damage in most cases, and hands you a clear receipt.
Prevent the next lockout
- Have a spare key made and leave it with someone you trust (not under the mat).
- Consider a smart lock or keypad so a forgotten key never locks you out again.
- If you've lost track of who has a key, rekey and start fresh.
Locked out right now? Our 24/7 emergency locksmith team answers around the clock across Los Angeles.
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