US Locksmith is a licensed (Lic #00443LK) locksmith company serving all of South Florida since 2004. Not everyone realizes that Florida has specific and sometimes confusing requirements around locksmith licensing. Whether you are hiring a locksmith in Fort Lauderdale or thinking about entering the trade, here is what the law actually requires and why it matters for your security.
Does Fort Lauderdale Require a Locksmith License?
No. Fort Lauderdale and Broward County do not mandate a specific locksmith license. Florida House Bill 735 overrides local occupational licensing rules in this area. However, this does not mean anyone can set up a locksmith business without accountability. Professionals still need a general business license from the city and county, and reputable locksmiths voluntarily carry insurance and undergo background checks to build customer trust.
How Does Fort Lauderdale Compare to Miami-Dade County?
Miami-Dade County requires locksmiths to be licensed through the county — a separate and more stringent requirement. Broward County (including Fort Lauderdale) and Palm Beach County follow the state-level rules established by HB 735, which do not require a trade-specific license.
| County | Locksmith License Required? | Business License Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade | Yes — county-issued | Yes |
| Broward (Fort Lauderdale) | No (HB 735) | Yes |
| Palm Beach | No (HB 735) | Yes |
What Do You Need to Work as a Locksmith in Fort Lauderdale?
Even without a trade-specific license, a professional locksmith in Fort Lauderdale should meet these standards:
- General business license. Required by the City of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County for any business operation
- Locksmith training: Formal training covering lock mechanisms, electronic security systems, and key cutting techniques
- Background check — Not state-mandated in Broward, but reputable companies perform them voluntarily
- Liability insurance: Protects customers against property damage during service
- Ongoing education. Lock technology evolves constantly with smart locks and electronic access control
Why Should You Hire a Licensed Locksmith?
The absence of a mandatory locksmith license in Broward County makes it even more important to verify who you are letting into your home or vehicle. A professional locksmith in Fort Lauderdale who carries proper insurance, has a clean background check, and maintains a business license is far safer than an unvetted operator.
How to Verify a Locksmith
Ask for their business license number, proof of insurance, and company ID before any work begins. Check the Broward County Consumer Protection page for additional guidance. US Locksmith carries Florida License #00443LK and is fully bonded and insured.
Interested in how to get a locksmith license in Florida? Read our full guide: How Do You Get a Locksmith License in Florida?
Bottom Line
Fort Lauderdale does not require a specific locksmith license, but that does not mean you should hire just anyone. Look for a business license, insurance, and a clean track record. US Locksmith (License #00443LK) serves all of Broward County with licensed, bonded, and insured technicians. Call 1-866-776-6062.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Fort Lauderdale and Broward County do not require a specific locksmith license due to Florida House Bill 735, which overrides local occupational licensing rules. However, locksmiths must hold a general business license and follow all applicable business regulations.
Yes. Miami-Dade County requires locksmiths to be licensed through the county. The requirements include passing a background check and meeting specific trade qualifications. This is separate from the Broward and Palm Beach County rules.
Ask for their business license number and proof of insurance. Check the Florida Division of Corporations for their business registration. For Miami-Dade locksmiths, verify the county-issued license. US Locksmith holds Florida License #00443LK and is fully bonded and insured.
A reputable locksmith should carry general liability insurance at minimum, which protects customers against property damage during service. Workers compensation and commercial auto insurance are also standard for professional locksmith companies.
A licensed locksmith has been vetted through background checks and meets professional standards. Unlicensed operators may overcharge, cause damage, or use the access to your property inappropriately. Always verify credentials before letting anyone work on your locks.
Need Help With Your Car Locks? Call US Locksmith
US Locksmith is available 24/7 across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County. Licensed (#00443LK), bonded, and insured.
Call 1-866-776-6062Learn more about professional standards from the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).