Becoming a Locksmith in CA

[Eyes_Only]

Code Source is a great program, we use it at my shop all the time. Pretty pricey though. But I've noticed and was told by a automotive locksmith instructor that a lot of lockies seem to be starting to lean towards Blackhawk code software. Never tried it but I hear it works just as well as the one from HPC.

[rwp42]

Eyes_Only - Thank you very much for the info! I will look at both before making my decision. I am debating whether I will do enough code-cutting in the short term to justify the expense at this moment in time. I tend to want to be over prepared, but that translates directly to cost.

Thanks again!

RwP

[Eyes_Only]

I tend to do that too. But if you decide to do a good sized amount of automotive work you'll definately need a good code software to avoid having to completely disassemble car locks in many cases. Saves you a lot of time and money.

[rwp42]

I was able to accomplish a lot yesterday -- first stop was the City to obtain my business license. Amazingly there was no line and the whole process took about 20 minutes total. Next was a trip to the State Board of Equalization office for my reseller's permit. They ask if you are dropping your application off, or if you need the permit now. I opted for the latter. Approximately 30 minutes later I walked out with my reseller's permit. The person was very helpful -- walking me through all the things I need to know, and giving me a lot of informative handouts. The best bureaucratic experience I have had in my life!

The key to success for the above was being prepared. I had already downloaded applications from the city and state, and had brought with me all of my business information.

My third stop was to register my resale permit / business info with a local distributor. I chose Intermountain Lock & Supply due to their inventory, excellent web site, and local office/warehouse location for willcall pickups. IMLSS was very helpful and set me up quickly. I was even offered net-30 terms on a line of credit with them. Establishing a good relationship with a couple of distributors is critical.

Now that I have my State License Number, I am able to move into the first phase of marketing: business cards. I already had a professional logo and card design created, and will be submitting them to VistaPrint tonight.

RwP

[rwp42]

A side note on my accounting system:

I chose QuickBooks to handle inventory and business accounting. As my ordered inventory has been coming in, I have been entering it into QB. I spent a couple of hours last night working with QB to add my logo and customization to the various estimate, receipt, and invoice forms. As I perform work, QB tracks inventory usage, reorder points, vendors, account balances, etc... for me. So far it seems like a decent package -- but I don't have experience with any competitors.

My plan is to schedule a meeting with my tax accountant and make sure that my specific usage/categorization in QB meets with her needs. A bit of preparation now can save me a lot of time and headache later.

RwP

[maxxx]

From what I understand, there are two (2) employees in bsis who actually process paperwork. For the entire state of Gowlifornia. So dont hold your breath.

[Puzzlebox]

I know this is probably going to be a stupid question.... but what is bonded?

I sent in all the paperwork for the locksmith company license..... (I'm just a hobbiest but grabbed the license so that if I'm ever arrested it doesn't instantly become a felony... I feel naked without my bogotas)