Locksmithing in California?

[datagram]

What is actually required to become a licensed locksmith in the state of California? I have looked around at all the laws and paperwork and it looks like just about anyone with about 120$ can become a licensed locksmith. Granted, you must be a) of age, b) no prior convictions, c) submit fingerprints and undergo a background check, but all of that is OK in my case.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS – QUALIFIED MANAGER (for private investigator, private patrol operator, alarm company operator and repossession agency)
Each person who will be the qualified manager for a license must meet the experience requirements as listed below:
[...]
Locksmith
No experience required.

The licensing application packet also states that the qualified manager must "attain a passing score on the written examination."

Is that all? Just submit the paperwork and pass the test? No apprenticeship or training/schooling required? Also, for those that have taken the exam, what should I expect?

Thanks,
dg

[Eyes_Only]

I went through the license applications process and I never had to go through any kind of testing. Even scammer locksmiths these days can get state locksmith licenses so it shouldn't be that hard for honest hearted locksmith applicants.

Though I'm sure somethings will differ on whether you are applying as a locksmith employee or locksmith business owner.

[Sven]

as mentioned earlier, california has two types of locksmith registration: employee and owner. to my knowledge, neither requires a written exam. if you are an owner i would highly recommend a state contractor's license, which does require an exam. locksmiths, i believe, only need to pass section D, which is basically portals and fire/ life safety codes. don't quote me, because it has been awhile. the contractors license is required for any non automotive job totaling more then $500. automotive work is governed by the bureau of automotive repair, and i am not sure an individual is required to have any specific certification through them. and, of course, an aloa or savta membership couldn't hurt. best wishes.

[datagram]

Turns out the test is for psych evaluation, not proficiency!

dg