Locksmith Scams in San Antonio — How to Protect Yourself
The locksmith industry unfortunately attracts scam operators who prey on people in emergency situations. Here’s how to identify and avoid locksmith scams in San Antonio.
Common Locksmith Scam Tactics
1. The Bait-and-Switch Price
The scammer quotes an extremely low price over the phone ($15–$25) to get dispatched. Once on-site, they claim the job is “more complex than expected” and charge $200–$500+.
2. No Company Name or License
Legitimate locksmiths answer the phone with their company name and can provide their Texas DPS license number. Scammers often answer with a generic “locksmith service” and cannot provide a license.
3. Unmarked Vehicles
Professional locksmiths arrive in branded vehicles. Scammers often arrive in unmarked personal vehicles.
4. Drilling Unnecessarily
A common tactic: drill out a perfectly good lock, then charge for both the lockout AND a new lock installation. A skilled locksmith can open most locks without drilling.
5. No Written Invoice
Scammers avoid paper trails. Legitimate locksmiths provide itemized invoices.
How to Verify a Locksmith is Legitimate
- Check the Texas DPS license — All locksmiths in Texas must be licensed. Verify at txdps.state.tx.us
- Look for a physical address — Legitimate companies have a real business address
- Check Google reviews — Look for consistent, detailed reviews over time
- Verify BBB accreditation — BBB-accredited locksmiths have been vetted
- Ask for ID on arrival — The technician should have company ID and license information
- Get a firm quote before work begins — No legitimate locksmith should refuse to quote
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
- File a complaint with the Texas Department of Public Safety
- Report to the Better Business Bureau
- Leave an honest Google review to warn others
- Dispute the charge with your credit card company
- File a police report if necessary
Choose a Licensed Locksmith
S.A. Locksmith & Security (LIC# B18010) is licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety, BBB A+ accredited, and has served San Antonio since 2009. We provide upfront pricing, never drill unnecessarily, and always provide written invoices. Call (210) 348-3677.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask for their Texas DPS locksmith license number and verify it at txdps.state.tx.us. S.A. Locksmith & Security license is B18010.
You have the right to refuse the higher charge. Pay only the quoted amount, request a written invoice, and file complaints with Texas DPS and BBB.
Extremely low quotes ($15-$25) are almost always bait-and-switch scams. The actual charge will be much higher once they arrive.