Texas Locksmith Earnings: How Much Do Locksmiths Really Make in Texas?

When you think about locksmith, a skilled professional who installs, repairs, and opens locks for homes, businesses, and vehicles. Also known as security technician, it's one of the few trades where you can start earning fast without a college degree. In Texas, locksmiths aren’t just opening doors—they’re opening doors to steady, well-paying work. Unlike many skilled trades that require years of school, a good locksmith can get certified in months and start making money right away.

Locksmiths in Texas earn between $15 and $40 an hour, with experienced pros hitting $50+ on emergency calls or commercial jobs. Location matters: Houston, Dallas, and Austin pay more than rural areas because demand is higher and so are property values. Many locksmiths also earn extra by selling locks, installing security systems, or offering 24/7 emergency services. This isn’t just about turning keys—it’s about understanding electronic access control, systems that manage who can enter a building using keycards, biometrics, or digital codes, and vehicle locksmithing, specialized work to open and reprogram car locks without damaging them. These skills can double your income.

What’s holding people back? A myth that you need to be a math genius or have a license from the state—Texas doesn’t require a statewide license, but some cities like Dallas and Houston do. Most locksmiths get trained through short-term courses or apprenticeships, then build their reputation with honest work. If you’re good with your hands, don’t mind working outdoors or at odd hours, and like solving puzzles, this trade fits. You won’t get rich overnight, but you won’t be stuck in a cubicle either.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns of what locksmiths earn in Texas, how training affects pay, where the best jobs are, and what tools and skills actually matter on the job. No fluff. Just what you need to know if you’re thinking about stepping into this trade.