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Do Texas cities license locksmiths?
Source: Texas Locksmith Help (texaslocksmithhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
A licensed company and its employees do not need a permit, license or bond from a city, county or other political subdivision to do work the state license covers (Occupations Code 1702.134). (source: Texas Legislature)
A business may not act as a locksmith company in Texas unless it holds a security services contractor license (Occupations Code 1702.102). (source: Texas Legislature)
Door replacement and city permits
| City | What the city says about replacing doors | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Austin | The list of work exempt from building permits includes "Replacing doors of the same size and operation." | (source: City of Austin Development Services) checked November 2, 2026 |
| San Antonio | "Replacement of existing doors" is on the No Permit Required List; historic, conservation and corridor districts may have design and material limits. | (source: City of San Antonio Development Services) checked November 2, 2026 |
| Corpus Christi | "Existing door replacement (excludes door frame)" is listed as an exemption. | (source: City of Corpus Christi Development Services) checked November 2, 2026 |
Changing a lock usually does not involve the door itself. If a job includes a new door or frame, check with your city building office first.
On this site: Do Texas locksmiths need a license? · How to check a Texas locksmith license · Why a Texas locksmith asks for your ID during a lockout · Who can unlock my car in Texas? · Who does not need a Texas locksmith license? · Smart locks, keypads and access control: which Texas license? · Texas renters: rekeying after you move in · What locks must a Texas rental have? · How fast must a Texas landlord fix or rekey locks? · What a Texas renter can do if the landlord will not rekey · Can a Texas landlord change my locks? · How to complain about a Texas locksmith · Penalties for unlicensed locksmith work in Texas · What a Texas locksmith license costs · Texas locksmith experience and training rules · Do Texas cities license locksmiths? · Before a Texas locksmith starts work · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes): Occupations Code Chapter 1702: Private Security (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Austin Development Services: Work Exempt from Building Permits (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of San Antonio Development Services: No Permit Required List (checked November 2, 2026)
- City of Corpus Christi Development Services: Homeowner's Guide to Permitting (PDF) (checked November 2, 2026)
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