Navigating the labyrinth of lock picking legality can be a perplexing endeavor.
There is no greater question, nor deterrent, for those wishing to learn how to use lock picks than the fear of breaking the law in the process.
And rightfully so. The very nature of lock picking is to subtly bypass locks. So questioning its legality is totally understandable.
So is it illegal to own a lock pick set?
Buying and owning lock picking tools is legal in the majority of states and most jurisdictions around the world. However, some US states, such as Mississippi, Tennessee, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, and Virgin, have specific laws directly restricting lock-picking tools or their use in some capacity.
In this guide, we'll dive into what makes lock picks legal in some jurisdictions and what special rules we need to follow in others.
Or, if you are just looking for your local laws, just jump down a little further and check out our interactive map and table of United States lock picking laws.
Lock Picking Legal Terms
Lock picking can be helpful for locksmiths and security professionals, but it can also be misused for illegal activities. Because of this, the laws surrounding lock picks can be complicated and differ from place to place.
To truly understand the laws surrounding lock picks, we have to break down three simple legal definitions that govern the possession of locksmith tools.
Don't worry; they are pretty straightforward.
Must Show Intent
In the majority of US states (and most of the world), owning lock picks is 100% legal and is seen by the law in the same light as a screwdriver or hammer.
It is only when you use them in an illegal way that you will find trouble. In these cases, the prosecution must prove that the individual had the intent to commit a crime with the lock picking tools and that they were not simply being used for a legitimate purpose, such as practicing a hobby or profession.
Proving criminal intent can be challenging, and the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. As long as the tools are used for legal purposes, individuals in these areas can own and possess lock picking tools without legal repercussions.
Prima Facie Evidence
In some states, the possession of lock picking tools is considered "prima facie evidence“ of intent to commit a crime.
This means that the mere possession of these tools creates an automatic assumption that the individual intends to use them for illegal activities. In such cases, the burden of proof falls on the accused to demonstrate that they had a legitimate reason for possessing the lock picking tools, such as working as a locksmith or pursuing a lock picking hobby.
However, this presumption can be challenged in court, and the person may be able to prove that they had a legitimate reason for possessing the tools, such as being a locksmith or hobbyist. If you buy or own tools while in these states, it's advised you leave them at home.
No Specific Law
In certain states and jurisdictions (like North Dakota), there are no specific laws that address the possession or use of lock picking tools. In these areas, lock picking tools are treated similarly to common tools like screwdrivers or hammers. As long as the tools are not used for illegal purposes or in the commission of a crime, owning and possessing lock picking tools is generally legal.
However, it is important to note that using these tools for illegal purposes can still result in criminal charges, even in the absence of specific laws regulating lock picking tools.
United States Lock Picking Laws
In the realm of security, the skill of lock picking has long been a subject of fascination and intrigue, leading to the development of a unique community of enthusiasts. However, the legality of lock picking in the United States varies by state, often resulting in confusion and uncertainty among practitioners.
This section aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible guide to this complex legal landscape, shedding light on the nuances and implications of these regulations.
What States Are Lockpicks Illegal
Within the United States, a variety of state-specific regulations govern the possession and use of lock picks and bump keys. Among them, several states stand out for their explicit rules on lock-picking tools.
These states are:
- Mississippi: Possession of lock picks is legal so long as they are not concealed. However, once you put them in your pocket, it becomes intent to commit a crime.
- Tennessee: Possession of lock picks is legal; however, Tennessee has some very strict laws to prevent locksmith fraud. If you live in this state, it is illegal to use your skills for any sort of profit unless you are a licensed locksmith.
- Illinois:Â Possession of lock picks is legal; however, the possession of bump keys is illegal.
- Kansas: Possession is legal; however, you will be fingerprinted if arrested ( for any reason) while in possession.
- Nevada: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
- Ohio: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
- Virginia: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
Lock Pick Laws by State
Here is our interactive map containing the current United States lock picking laws. Hover over your state or use the table below to check the legality of possessing lock picks and click to read relevant law excerpts.
CHOOSE YOUR STATE!
| State | Legality | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Legal | 2009 Alabama Code Title 13A — CRIMINAL CODE. Chapter 7 — OFFENSES INVOLVING DAMAGE TO AND INTRUSION UPON PROPERTY. Section 13A-7-8 Possession of burglar's tools. (a) A person commits the crime of possession of burglar's tools if he: (1) Possesses any explosive, tool, instrument or other article adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of an offense involving forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking; and (2) Intends to use the thing possessed in the commission of an offense of the nature described in subdivision (a) (1) of this section. |
| Alaska | Legal | 2011 Alaska Statutes Title 11. CRIMINAL LAW Chapter 11.46. OFFENSES AGAINST PROPERTY Sec. 11.46.315. Possession of burglary tools. (a) A person commits the crime of possession of burglary tools if the person possesses a burglary tool with intent to use or permit use of the tool in the commission of: (1) burglary in any degree; (c) Possession of burglary tools is a class A misdemeanor. |
| Arizona | Legal | 2011 Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13 Criminal Code 13-1505 Possession of burglary tools; master key; manipulation key; classification A. A person commits possession of burglary tools by: 1. Possessing any explosive, tool, instrument or other article adapted or commonly used for committing any form of burglary as defined in sections 13-1506, 13-1507 and 13-1508 and intending to use or permit the use of such an item in the commission of a burglary. 2. Buying, selling, transferring, possessing or using a motor vehicle manipulation key or master key. B. Subsection A, paragraph 2 of this section does not apply to a person who either: 1. Uses a master key in the course of the person's lawful business or occupation, including licensed vehicle dealers and manufacturers, key manufacturers who are engaged in the business of designing, making, altering, duplicating or repairing locks or keys, locksmiths, loan institutions that finance vehicles and law enforcement. 2. Transfers, possesses or uses no more than one manipulation key, unless the manipulation key is transferred, possessed or used with the intent to commit any theft or felony. |
| Arkansas | Legal - No specific law | There are no specific laws in Arkansas regulating lock picks. |
| California | Legal | 2011 California Code Penal Code PART 1. OF CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS [25 - 680] CHAPTER 3. Burglarious and Larcenous Instruments and Deadly Weapons § 466. Every person having upon him or her...a picklock...or other instrument or tool with intent feloniously to break or enter into any building...or who shall knowingly make or alter...any key or other instrument...so that the same will fit or open the lock of a building...without being requested to do so by some person having the right to open the same, or who shall make...any instrument or thing...to be used in committing a misdemeanor or felony, is guilty of a misdemeanor. § 466.1. Any person who...sells or provides a lock pick, a tension bar...to another, whether or not for compensation, shall obtain the name, address, telephone number, if any, date of birth, and drivers license number or identification number, if any, of the person to whom the device is sold or provided. This information, together with the date...and the signature of the person to whom the device was sold or provided, shall be set forth on a bill of sale or receipt. A copy of each bill of sale or receipt shall be retained for one year and shall be open to inspection by any peace officer during business hours. Any person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor. |
| Colorado | Legal | 2016 Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18 - Criminal Code Article 4 - Offenses Against Property Part 2 - Burglary and Related Offenses § 18-4-205. Possession of burglary tools (1) A person commits possession of burglary tools if he possesses any explosive, tool, instrument, or other article adapted, designed, or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of an offense involving forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking, and intends to use the thing possessed, or knows that some person intends to use the thing possessed, in the commission of such an offense. (2) Possession of burglary tools is a class 5 felony. |
| Connecticut | Legal | 2011 Connecticut Code Title 53a Penal Code Chapter 952 Penal Code: Offenses Sec. 53a-106. Manufacturing or possession of burglar's tools: Class A misdemeanor. (a) A person is guilty of manufacturing or possession of burglar's tools when he manufactures or has in his possession any tool, instrument or other thing adapted, designed or commonly used for advancing or facilitating offenses involving unlawful entry into premises, or offenses involving forcible breaking of safes or other containers or depositories of property, under circumstances manifesting an intent to use or knowledge that some person intends to use the same in the commission of an offense of such character. (b) Manufacturing or possession of burglar's tools is a class A misdemeanor. |
| Delaware | Legal | 2012 Delaware Code Title 11 - Crimes and Criminal Procedure CHAPTER 5. SPECIFIC OFFENSES Subchapter III. Offenses Involving Property § 828. Possession of burglar's tools or instruments facilitating theft; class F felony. (a) A person is guilty of possession of burglar's tools or instruments facilitating theft when, under circumstances evidencing an intent to use or knowledge that some other person intends to use the same in the commission of an offense of such character, the person possesses any tool, instrument, or other thing adapted, designed, or commonly used for committing or facilitating: (1) Offenses involving unlawful entry into or upon premises, (2) Offenses involving the unlocking, overriding, or disabling of a security device without authorization, (b) Possession of burglar's tools or instruments facilitating theft is a class F felony. |
| Florida | Legal | 2013 Florida Statutes TITLE XLVI - CRIMES Chapter 810 - BURGLARY AND TRESPASS 810.06 - Possession of burglary tools. Whoever has in his or her possession any tool, machine, or implement with intent to use the same, or allow the same to be used, to commit any burglary or trespass shall be guilty of a felony of the third degree |
| Georgia | Legal | 2010 Georgia Code TITLE 16 - CRIMES AND OFFENSES CHAPTER 7 - DAMAGE TO AND INTRUSION UPON PROPERTY ARTICLE 2 - CRIMINAL TRESPASS AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY PART 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS § 16-7-20 - Possession of tools for the commission of crime (a) A person commits the offense of possession of tools for the commission of crime when he has in his possession any tool, explosive, or other device commonly used in the commission of burglary, theft, or other crime with the intent to make use thereof in the commission of a crime. (b) A person convicted of the offense of possession of tools for the commission of crime shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than five years. |
| Hawaii | Legal | 2010 Hawaii Code DIVISION 5. CRIMES AND CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS TITLE 37. HAWAII PENAL CODE 708. Offenses Against Property Rights §708-812 Possession of burglar's tools. (1) A person commits the offense of possession of burglar's tools if: (a) The person knowingly possesses any explosive, tool, instrument, or other article adapted, designed, or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of an offense involving forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking, and the person intends to use the explosive, tool, instrument, or article, or knows some person intends ultimately to use it, in the commission of the offense of the nature described aforesaid; or (2) Possession of burglar's tools is a misdemeanor. |
| Idaho | Legal | 2011 Idaho Code TITLE 18 CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS CHAPTER 14 BURGLARY 18-1406 POSSESSION OF BURGLARIOUS INSTRUMENTS. Every person having upon him, or in his possession, a picklock, crow, key, bit, or other instrument or tool, with intent feloniously to break or enter into any building or who shall knowingly make or alter, or shall attempt to make or alter any key or other instrument above named, so that the same will fit or open the lock of a building, without being requested so to do by some person having the right to open the same, or who shall make, alter, or repair, any instrument or thing, knowing, or having reason to believe, that it is intended to be used in committing a misdemeanor or felony, is guilty of a misdemeanor. Any of the structures mentioned in this chapter shall be deemed a building within the meaning of this section. |
| Illinois | Legal | 2010 Illinois Code CHAPTER 720 CRIMINAL OFFENSES 720 ILCS 5/ Criminal Code of 1961. Article 19 - Burglary Sec. 19‑2. Possession of burglary tools. (a) A person commits the offense of possession of burglary tools when he possesses any key, tool, instrument, device, or any explosive, suitable for use in breaking into a building, housetrailer, watercraft, aircraft, motor vehicle as defined in The Illinois Vehicle Code, railroad car, or any depository designed for the safekeeping of property, or any part thereof, with intent to enter any such place and with intent to commit therein a felony or theft. The trier of fact may infer from the possession of a key designed for lock bumping an intent to commit a felony or theft; however, this inference does not apply to any peace officer or other employee of a law enforcement agency, or to any person or agency licensed under the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004. For the purposes of this Section, "lock bumping" means a lock picking technique for opening a pin tumbler lock using a specially‑crafted bumpkey. |
| Indiana | Legal - No specific law | There are no specific laws in Indiana regulating lock picks. |
| Iowa | Legal | 2011 Iowa Code TITLE XVI CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE SUBTITLE 1 CRIME CONTROL AND CRIMINAL ACTS CHAPTER 713 BURGLARY 713.7 Possession of burglar’s tools. Any person who possesses any key, tool, instrument, device or any explosive, with the intent to use it in the perpetration of a burglary, commits an aggravated misdemeanor. |
| Kansas | Legal | 2011 Kansas Code Chapter 21. - CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS Article 25. - IDENTIFICATION AND DETECTION OF CRIMES AND CRIMINALS 21-2501. Fingerprinting and palm printing of suspects; disposition of impressions. (a) It is hereby made the duty of every sheriff, police department or countywide law enforcement agency in the state, immediately to cause two sets of fingerprint impressions and one set of palm print impressions to be made of a person who is arrested if the person: (4) is in possession of firearms or other concealed weapons, burglary tools, high explosives or other appliances believed to be used solely for criminal purposes; |
| Kentucky | Legal | 2011 Kentucky Revised Statutes CHAPTER 511 BURGLARY AND RELATED OFFENSES 511.050 Possession of burglar's tools. (1) A person is guilty of possession of burglar's tools when he possesses any tool, instrument or other thing adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of an offense involving forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking under circumstances which leave no reasonable doubt as to his: (a) Intention to use the same in the commission of an offense of such character; or (b) Knowledge that some other person intends to use the same in the commission of an offense of such character. (2) Possession of burglar's tools is a Class A misdemeanor. |
| Louisiana | Legal | 2011 Louisiana Laws Revised Statutes TITLE 14 — Criminal law §95. Illegal carrying of weapons A. Illegal carrying of weapons is: (3) The ownership, possession, custody or use of any tools, or dynamite, or nitroglycerine, or explosives, or other instrumentality customarily used by thieves or burglars at any time by any person with the intent to commit a crime; |
| Maine | Legal | 2011 Maine Revised Statutes TITLE 17-A: MAINE CRIMINAL CODE Chapter 17: BURGLARY AND CRIMINAL TRESPASS §403. Possession or transfer of burglar's tools 1. A person is guilty of possession or transfer of burglar's tools if that person: A. Possesses or makes any tool, implement, instrument or other article that is adapted, designed or commonly used for advancing or facilitating crimes involving unlawful entry into property or crimes involving forcible breaking of safes or other containers or depositories of property, including, but not limited to, an electronic device used as a code grabber or a master key designed to fit more than one lock, with intent to use such tool, implement, instrument or other article to commit any such criminal offense. Violation of this paragraph is a Class E crime; B. Transfers or possesses with the intent to transfer any device described in paragraph A that that person knows is designed or primarily useful for the commission of a crime described in paragraph A. Violation of this paragraph is a Class D crime. |
| Maryland | Legal | 2010 Maryland Code CRIMINAL LAW TITLE 6 - CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY Subtitle 2 - Burglary and Related Crimes § 6-205. Burglary in the fourth degree. (d) Same - Possession of burglar's tool.- A person may not possess a burglar's tool with the intent to use or allow the use of the burglar's tool in the commission of a violation of this subtitle. |
| Massachusetts | Legal | 2010 Massachusetts Code PART IV CRIMES, PUNISHMENTS AND PROCEEDINGSIN CRIMINAL CASES TITLE I CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS CHAPTER 266 CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY Section 49 Burglarious instruments; making; possession; use Whoever makes or mends, or begins to make or mend, or knowingly has in his possession, an engine, machine, tool or implement adapted and designed for cutting through, forcing or breaking open a building, room, vault, safe or other depository, in order to steal therefrom money or other property, or to commit any other crime, knowing the same to be adapted and designed for the purpose aforesaid, with intent to use or employ or allow the same to be used or employed for such purpose, or whoever knowingly has in his possession a master key designed to fit more than one motor vehicle, with intent to use or employ the same to steal a motor vehicle or other property therefrom, shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than ten years or by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars and imprisonment in jail for not more than two and one half years. |
| Michigan | Legal | 2011 Michigan Compiled Laws Chapter 750 — MICHIGAN PENAL CODE Act 328 of 1931 — THE MICHIGAN PENAL CODE (750.1 - 750.568) 328-1931-XVI — CHAPTER XVI BREAKING AND ENTERING (750.110...750.116) 750.116 Burglar's tools; possession. Possession of burglar's tools Any person who shall knowingly have in his possession any nitroglycerine, or other explosive, thermite, engine, machine, tool or implement, device, chemical or substance, adapted and designed for cutting or burning through, forcing or breaking open any building, room, vault, safe or other depository, in order to steal therefrom any money or other property, knowing the same to be adapted and designed for the purpose aforesaid, with intent to use or employ the same for the purpose aforesaid, shall be guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison not more than 10 years. |
| Minnesota | Legal | 2011 Minnesota Statutes Chapters 609 - 624 — Crimes, Criminals Chapter 609 — Criminal Code Section 609.59 — Possession of Burglary or Theft Tools Whoever has in possession any device, explosive, or other instrumentality with intent to use or permit the use of the same to commit burglary or theft may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than three years or to payment of a fine of not more than $5,000, or both. |
| Mississippi | Legal - If not concealed | 2010 Mississippi Code TITLE 97 - CRIMES Chapter 17 - Crimes Against Property. § 97-17-35. Burglary; possession of burglar's tools. It is unlawful for any person to have in his possession implements, tools, or instruments designed to aid in the commission of burglary, larceny or robbery; and on the conviction of any person thereof, he shall be punished by imprisonment in the penitentiary not exceeding five (5) years, or in the county jail not exceeding one year. The carrying concealed about one's person, or in one's baggage, implements, tools, or instruments peculiarly adapted to aid in the commission of burglary, larceny or robbery, shall be prima facie evidence of intention to use them for such purpose. |
| Missouri | Legal | 2011 Missouri Revised Statutes TITLE XXXVIII CRIMES AND PUNISHMENT; PEACE OFFICERS AND PUBLIC DEFENDERS Chapter 569 Robbery, Arson, Burglary and Related Offenses Section 569.180. Possession of burglar's tools. 1. A person commits the crime of possession of burglar's tools if he possesses any tool, instrument or other article adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating offenses involving forcible entry into premises, with a purpose to use or knowledge that some person has the purpose of using the same in making an unlawful forcible entry into a building or inhabitable structure or a room thereof. 2. Possession of burglar's tools is a class D felony. |
| Montana | Legal | 2011 Montana Code Annotated TITLE 45. CRIMES CHAPTER 6. OFFENSES AGAINST PROPERTY Part 2. Criminal Trespass and Burglary 45-6-205. Possession of burglary tools. (1) A person commits the offense of possession of burglary tools when the person knowingly possesses any key, tool, instrument, device, or explosive suitable for breaking into an occupied structure, a vehicle, or any depository designed for the safekeeping of property or any part of the occupied structure, vehicle, or depository with the purpose to commit an offense. (2) A person convicted of possession of burglary tools shall be fined not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both. |
| Nebraska | Legal | 2009 Nebraska Code Chapter 28 CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS 28-508 Possession of burglar's tools; penalty. (1) A person commits the offense of possession of burglar's tools if: (a) He knowingly possesses any explosive, tool, instrument, or other article adapted, designed, or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of an offense involving forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking; and (b) He intends to use the explosive, tool, instrument, or article, or knows some person intends ultimately to use it, in the commission of an offense of the nature described in subdivision (1)(a) of this section. (2) Possession of burglar's tools is a Class IV felony. |
| Nevada | Illegal - prima facie evidence | 2010 Nevada Code TITLE 15 CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS Chapter 205 Crimes Against Property NRS 205.080 Possession of instrument with burglarious intent; making, alteration or repair of instrument for committing offense; penalty. 1. Every person who makes or mends or causes to be made or mended, or has in his or her possession in the day or nighttime, any engine, machine, tool, false key, picklock, bit, nippers or implement adapted, designed or commonly used for the commission of burglary, invasion of the home, larceny or other crime, under circumstances evincing an intent to use or employ, or allow the same to be used or employed in the commission of a crime, or knowing that the same is intended to be so used, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor. 2. The possession thereof except by a mechanic, artificer or tradesman at and in his or her established shop or place of business, open to public view, shall be prima facie evidence that such possession was had with intent to use or employ or allow the same to be used or employed in the commission of a crime. |
| New Hampshire | Legal | 2010 New Hampshire Statutes TITLE LXII CRIMINAL CODE CHAPTER 635 UNAUTHORIZED ENTRIES Section 635:1 Burglary - V. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if he makes or mends, or begins to make or mend, or knowingly has in his possession, an engine, machine, tool, or implement adapted and designed for cutting through, forcing or breaking open a building, room, vault, safe, or other depository, in order to steal therefrom money or other property, or to commit any other crime, knowing the same to be adapted and designed for the purpose aforesaid, with intent to use or employ or allow the same to be used or employed for such purpose. |
| New Jersey | Legal | 2013 New Jersey Revised Statutes Title 2C - THE NEW JERSEY CODE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE Section 2C:5-5 - Burglar's tools a. Any person who manufactures or possesses any engine, machine, tool or implement adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating any offense in chapter 20 of this Title or offenses involving forcible entry into premises. (1) Knowing the same to be so adapted or designed or commonly used; and (2) With either a purpose so to use or employ it, or with a purpose to provide it to some person who he knows has such a purpose to use or employ it, is guilty of an offense. |
| New Mexico | Legal | 2011 New Mexico Statutes Chapter 30: Criminal Offenses Article 16: Larceny, 30-16-1 through 30-16-48 Section 30-16-5: Possession of burglary tools. Possession of burglary tools consists of having in the person's possession a device or instrumentality designed or commonly used for the commission of burglary and under circumstances evincing an intent to use the same in the commission of burglary. Whoever commits possession of burglary tools is guilty of a fourth degree felony. |
| New York | Legal | 2006 New York Code - Possession Of Burglar\'s Tools. § 140.35 Possession of burglar's tools. A person is guilty of possession of burglar's tools when he possesses any tool, instrument or other article adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating offenses involving forcible entry into premises, or offenses involving larceny by a physical taking, or offenses involving theft of services as defined in subdivisions four, five and six of section 165.15, under circumstances evincing an intent to use or knowledge that some person intends to use the same in the commission of an offense of such character. Possession of burglar's tools is a class A misdemeanor. |
| North Carolina | Legal - license required of compensation | 2010 North Carolina Code Chapter 14 Criminal Law. Article 14 - Burglary and Other Housebreakings. 14‑55. Preparation to commit burglary or other housebreakings. If any person shall be found armed with any dangerous or offensive weapon, with the intent to break or enter a dwelling, or other building whatsoever, and to commit any felony or larceny therein; or shall be found having in his possession, without lawful excuse, any picklock, key, bit, or other implement of housebreaking; or shall be found in any such building, with intent to commit any felony or larceny therein, such person shall be punished as a Class I felon. North Carolina Code - General Statutes § 74F-3. Licenses required. No person shall perform or offer to perform locksmith services in this State unless the person has been licensed …. A violation of this section is a Class 3 misdemeanor …. § 74F-4 Definitions Locksmith services. - Repairing, rebuilding, rekeying, repinning, servicing, adjusting, or installing locks, mechanical or electronic locking devices, access control devices, egress control devices, vaults, and safe-deposit boxes for compensation or other consideration, including services performed by safe technicians. |
| North Dakota | Legal - No specific law | There are no specific laws in North Dakota regulating lock picks. |
| Ohio | Illegal - prima facie evidence | 2011 Ohio Revised Code Title [29] XXIX CRIMES - PROCEDURE Chapter 2923: CONSPIRACY, ATTEMPT, AND COMPLICITY; WEAPONS CONTROL; CORRUPT ACTIVITY 2923.24 Possessing criminal tools. (A) No person shall possess or have under the person’s control any substance, device, instrument, or article, with purpose to use it criminally. (B) Each of the following constitutes prima-facie evidence of criminal purpose: (2) Possession or control of any substance, device, instrument, or article designed or specially adapted for criminal use; (3) Possession or control of any substance, device, instrument, or article commonly used for criminal purposes, under circumstances indicating the item is intended for criminal use. (C) Whoever violates this section is guilty of possessing criminal tools. Except as otherwise provided in this division, possessing criminal tools is a misdemeanor of the first degree. If the circumstances indicate that the substance, device, instrument, or article involved in the offense was intended for use in the commission of a felony, possessing criminal tools is a felony of the fifth degree. |
| Oklahoma | Legal | 2006 Oklahoma Code - Title 21. — Crimes and Punishments §21-1442.  Possession of certain tools by persons previously convicted of burglary. Any person who has been previously convicted of the crime of burglary who has in his possession, custody or concealed about his person, or transports or causes to be transported, any combination of three (3) or more of the following tools:  Sledge hammer, pry bar, punches, chisel, bolt cutters, with the intent to use or employ, or allow the same to be used or employed, in the commission of a crime, or knowing that the tools are to be used in the commission of a crime, shall be guilty of a felony. |
| Oregon | Legal | 2011 Oregon Revised Statutes ORS Volume 4, Chapters 131 - 170 ORS Chapter 164 164.235 Possession of a burglary tool or theft device. (1) A person commits the crime of possession of a burglary tool or theft device if the person possesses a burglary tool or theft device and the person: (a) Intends to use the tool or device to commit or facilitate a forcible entry into premises or a theft by a physical taking; or (b) Knows that another person intends to use the tool or device to commit or facilitate a forcible entry into premises or a theft by a physical taking. (2) For purposes of this section, burglary tool or theft device means an acetylene torch, electric arc, burning bar, thermal lance, oxygen lance or other similar device capable of burning through steel, concrete or other solid material, or nitroglycerine, dynamite, gunpowder or any other explosive, tool, instrument or other article adapted or designed for committing or facilitating a forcible entry into premises or theft by a physical taking. (3) Possession of a burglary tool or theft device is a Class A misdemeanor. |
| Pennsylvania | Legal - No specific law | There are no specific laws in Pennsylvania regulating lock picks. |
| Rhode Island | Legal | 2010 Rhode Island Code Title 11 Criminal Offenses CHAPTER 11-8 Burglary and Breaking and Entering § 11-8-7 Making, repairing, or possessing burglar tools. Whoever makes or mends, or does any work connected with the making or reparation of, or has in his or her possession any engine, machine, tool, false key, pick lock, nippers, or implement of any kind adapted and designed for cutting through, forcing, breaking open, or entering a building, room, vault, safe, or other depository, in order to steal from it money or other property, or to commit any other crime, knowing the equipment to be adapted and designed for this purpose, with intent to use or employ, or allow the equipment to be used or employed, for this purpose, shall be imprisoned not more than ten (10) years. |
| South Carolina | Legal | 2010 South Carolina Code of Laws Title 16 - Crimes and Offenses CHAPTER 11 - OFFENSES AGAINST PROPERTY SECTION 16-11-20. Making, mending or possessing tools or other implements capable of being used in crime. It is unlawful for a person to make or mend, cause to be made or mended, or have in his possession any engine, machine, tool, false key, picklock, bit, nippers, nitroglycerine, dynamite cap, coil or fuse, steel wedge, drill, tap-pin, or other implement or thing adapted, designed, or commonly used for the commission of burglary, larceny, safecracking, or other crime, under circumstances evincing an intent to use, employ, or allow the same to be used or employed in the commission of a crime, or knowing that the same are intended to be so used. A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. |
| South Dakota | Legal | 2011 South Dakota Code Title 22 CRIMES Chapter 32. Burglary And Unlawful Entry §22-32-17 Possession of weapon or tools with intent to commit burglary--Felony. Possession of weapon or tools with intent to commit burglary--Felony. Any person who has in his or her possession any weapon or instrument specifically designed or adapted for the commission of a burglary or any explosive useful for the commission of a burglary, with the intent to commit a burglary, is guilty of a Class 6 felony. |
| Tennessee | Legal - Not legal for profit | 2017 Tennessee Code Title 39 - Criminal Offeses Chapter 14 - Offenses Against Property Part 7 - Criminal Instruments 39-14-701. Possession of burglary tools. (h)Â Â A person who possesses any tool, machine or implement with intent to use the same, or allow the same to be used, to commit any burglary, commits a Class A misdemeanor. 2017 Tennessee Code Title 62 - Professions, Businesses and Trades Chapter 11 - Locksmith Licensing Act of 2006 62-11-104 - Registration or licensing requirement Identification requirement Broad construction Financial institutions. (g)Â Â No person who is not licensed under this chapter shall possess, use, sell or offer to sell any code book, lock picking tool, manipulation key, try-out key, safe opening tool or car opening tool; provided, that the provisions of this subsection (g) restricting the possession or use of the items listed in this subsection (g) shall not apply to students involved in locksmithing training programs or courses, so long as those tools are not used by the students other than in accordance with the programs. (h)Â Â No person shall sell, offer to sell or give to any person not licensed under this chapter any code book, lock picking tool, manipulation key, try-out key, safe opening tool or car opening tool. |
| Texas | Legal | 2009 Texas Code PENAL CODE TITLE 4. INCHOATE OFFENSES CHAPTER 16. CRIMINAL INSTRUMENTS, INTERCEPTION OF WIRE OR ORAL COMMUNICATION, AND INSTALLATION OF TRACKING DEVICE Sec. 16.01. UNLAWFUL USE OF CRIMINAL INSTRUMENT. (a) A person commits an offense if: (1) he possesses a criminal instrument with intent to use it in the commission of an offense; or (2) with knowledge of its character and with intent to use or aid or permit another to use in the commission of an offense, he manufactures, adapts, sells, installs, or sets up a criminal instrument. (b) For the purpose of this section, "criminal instrument" means anything, the possession, manufacture, or sale of which is not otherwise an offense, that is specially designed, made, or adapted for use in the commission of an offense. |
| Utah | Legal | 2011 Utah Code Title 76 Utah Criminal Code Chapter 6 Offenses Against Property 76-6-205. Manufacture or possession of instrument for burglary or theft. Any person who manufactures or possesses any instrument, tool, device, article, or other thing adapted, designed, or commonly used in advancing or facilitating the commission of any offense under circumstances manifesting an intent to use or knowledge that some person intends to use the same in the commission of a burglary or theft is guilty of a class B misdemeanor. |
| Vermont | Legal | 2011 Vermont Code Title 13 Crimes and Criminal Procedure Chapter 23 BURGLARY § 1204 Making or having burglar's tools A person who manufactures or knowingly has in his or her possession any engine, machine, tool or implement, adapted and designed for cutting through, forcing or breaking open any building, room, vault, safe or other depository, in order to steal therefrom money or other property, knowing the same to be adapted and designed for such purpose, with intent to use or employ the same therefor, shall be imprisoned not more than 20 years or fined not more than $10,000.00, or both. |
| Virginia | Illegal - prima facie evidence | 2011 Code of Virginia Title 18.2 CRIMES AND OFFENSES GENERALLY. Chapter 5 Crimes Against Property (18.2-77 thru 18.2-167.1) 18.2-94 Possession of burglarious tools, etc If any person have in his possession any tools, implements or outfit, with intent to commit burglary, robbery or larceny, upon conviction thereof he shall be guilty of a Class 5 felony. The possession of such burglarious tools, implements or outfit by any person other than a licensed dealer, shall be prima facie evidence of an intent to commit burglary, robbery or larceny. |
| Washington | Legal | 2011 Washington Code Title 9A Washington criminal code 9A.52 Burglary and trespass. 9A.52.060 Making or having burglar tools. (1) Every person who shall make or mend or cause to be made or mended, or have in his possession, any engine, machine, tool, false key, pick lock, bit, nippers, or implement adapted, designed, or commonly used for the commission of burglary under circumstances evincing an intent to use or employ, or allow the same to be used or employed in the commission of a burglary, or knowing that the same is intended to be so used, shall be guilty of making or having burglar tools. (2) Making or having burglar tools is a gross misdemeanor. |
| West Virginia | Legal - No specific law | There are no specific laws in West Virginia regulating lock picks. |
| Wisconsin | Legal | 2011 Wisconsin Code Chapter 943. Crimes against property. 943.12 Possession of burglarious tools. Whoever has in personal possession any device or instrumentality intended, designed or adapted for use in breaking into any depository designed for the safekeeping of any valuables or into any building or room, with intent to use such device or instrumentality to break into a depository, building or room, and to steal therefrom, is guilty of a Class I felony. |
| Wyoming | Legal | 2011 Wyoming Statutes TITLE 6 - CRIMES AND OFFENSES CHAPTER 3 - OFFENSES AGAINST PROPERTY 6-3-304. Possession of burglar's tools; penalties. (a) A person is guilty of possession of burglar's tools if he possesses an explosive, tool, instrument or other article adapted, designed or commonly used for committing or facilitating the commission of a crime involving forcible entry into buildings or occupied structures with intent to use the article possessed in the commission of such a crime. |
Lock Picking Legality: Precautions
Learning the Laws
It is essential to educate yourself about the legality of lock picking in your area. In most US states, the practice of lock picking is considered legal as long as no criminal intent is involved. However, laws can vary, and it is important to consult your local statutes for state-specific information. You can find these laws in the table above.
Beyond the United States, laws can differ significantly regarding lock picking. If you are traveling or residing in another country, make sure to check their specific rules and regulations.
Best Practices
Adhering to best practices is a crucial part of responsible lock picking. A solid guideline is to only pick locks that you own or have explicit permission to pick. It is essential to respect other people's privacy and property. The locksport community, which practices competitive lock picking, upholds a strict ethical code, and you should follow suit.
Investing in lock picking practice kits or training as a locksmith can help you gain practical skills while avoiding potential legal issues. Make sure any lock picking tools you purchase are used solely for educational purposes.
Finally, be aware of the company you keep while engaging in lock picking activities. Associating with individuals who use lock picking skills for criminal pursuits can put you in legal jeopardy, even if you are not directly involved in their actions.
To Conclude
So as you can see, in the majority of the United States, lock picks are completely legal to purchase and use. So if you were on the fence about picking up your first beginner lock pick set and jumping into this amazing craft due to legal concerns, hopefully, this short little guide was the push you needed.
Remember that the best way to protect yourself from the law is to know the law. Not every cop nor attorney knows every law, so knowing your local laws could one day save you from an unfortunate situation.
Also, in general, just don't do anything stupid and follow the golden rules of lock picking. Only pick locks that you personally own or have explicit permission from the owner to pick, and you'll likely never have to fear dropping the soap.
The misinformation about lock picking is sadly one of the greatest reasons most don’t undertake this awesome hobby. Be sure to share this post and help crush the misconceptions that keep so many from starting their own lock picking journey!
Happy picking!
Disclaimer: I am not an attorney nor an expert at law. This article is designed to give a foundation for the legality of lock pick laws. This is my interpretation of the law, as the law has always been subjective in its nature. While I will always do my best to keep this page updated, laws do change, so be sure to check if there have been any updates.
