Locksmith scams are a real and growing problem across Texas. The FBI and the Better Business Bureau have both issued warnings about it. The typical scheme works like this: you search “locksmith near me,” click on what looks like a local business, get quoted $35 on the phone, and then a technician shows up and won’t leave until you pay $300 or more — cash only.
It happens in San Antonio, in Laredo, in McAllen, and in cities across the state. Here’s exactly how to protect yourself.
The Scam — How It Works
Most locksmith scam operations are run out of state and use fake local addresses stuffed into Google Maps listings. They pay to rank at the top of search results for “locksmith near me” or “emergency locksmith San Antonio.” When you call, you reach a call center — not a local tech. They quote a low number to get you to commit, then the tech who shows up claims the job is harder than expected and inflates the price on the spot. Because you’re locked out and have no leverage, many people pay.
The Better Business Bureau’s scam tracker has hundreds of locksmith complaints filed from Texas alone. The Federal Trade Commission has also documented this pattern as a widespread consumer fraud issue.
Texas Law: Locksmiths Must Be Licensed
This is the most important thing to know. In Texas, anyone working as a locksmith is required to hold a license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It is illegal to perform locksmith services in Texas without one.
You can verify any locksmith’s license on the Texas DPS license verification page.
Always ask for a license number before anyone starts working. A legitimate locksmith will give it to you immediately. A scammer will dodge the question, say they don’t have it on them, or give you a fake number.
RoadRunner Locksmith AKA license number: B30828401. You can verify it directly on the Texas DPS site right now.
7 Signs You’re Dealing With a Legitimate Locksmith
1. They give you a price over the phone and honor it A reputable locksmith will quote you a price before arriving and won’t change it dramatically once they’re at your door. There may be small adjustments for unusual situations, but the core price should match what you were quoted.
2. They have a real local address Search the business name and check Google Maps. If the address listed is a UPS Store, a parking lot, or a residential neighborhood with no signage, that’s a red flag. Legitimate mobile locksmiths may not have a storefront, but they should have a verifiable business address.
3. They show up in a marked vehicle Most professional locksmith services operate branded vehicles. An unmarked personal car is not disqualifying, but combined with other red flags, it matters.
4. They ask for ID before starting A legitimate locksmith will ask you to prove you own or have access to the property or vehicle they’re unlocking. This protects you and them. A locksmith who doesn’t check ID before letting you into a car or home is operating recklessly.
5. They’re licensed and can give you the number immediately As covered above — non-negotiable in Texas.
6. They’re listed on legitimate directories Check Yelp, Google Business Profile, the BBB, and Angi. Not just the company website. Scam operations often have polished websites but no real presence on third-party review platforms.
7. They accept multiple payment methods Cash-only demands are a warning sign. Legitimate businesses accept cards.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If a locksmith has already overcharged you or acted illegally:
- File a complaint with the Texas DPS at dps.texas.gov — they investigate unlicensed locksmith complaints
- Report to the BBB at bbb.org/scamtracker
- File with the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at texasattorneygeneral.gov
- Leave a detailed Google review so others in your city are warned
How to Find a Trustworthy Locksmith in San Antonio Before You Need One
The worst time to research a locksmith is when you’re already locked out. Save a number now so you’re not scrambling during an emergency.
What to look for:
- Texas DPS license number publicly listed
- Real Google Business Profile with reviews and photos
- Listed on Yelp, Angi, or BBB with consistent reviews
- Local phone number (not an 800 number routing to a call center)
- Consistent NAP (name, address, phone) across the web
Why We List Our License Number Everywhere
At RoadRunner Locksmith AKA, we put our license number — B30828401 — on our homepage, our about page, and every piece of communication we send. We do this because we know the locksmith industry has a scam problem and we want every customer to be able to verify us instantly before they call.
We’re a local San Antonio business. When you call (210) 630-3993, you’re reaching us — not a call center. We serve San Antonio (all ZIP codes 78201–78260), Laredo (78040–78046), McAllen (78501–78504), Edinburg (78539), Pharr (78577), and surrounding South and West Texas cities.
Need a Locksmith Right Now?
If you’re in an emergency situation — car lockout, house lockout, or commercial lockout — call us directly at (210) 630-3993. We’re available 24/7.
For non-emergencies, you can contact us here or browse our services:
- Automotive Locksmith Services
- Residential Locksmith Services
- Emergency Locksmith Services
- Commercial Locksmith Services
RoadRunner Locksmith AKA — Lic. #B30828401 — San Antonio · Laredo · McAllen · Edinburg · Pharr · Midland · Odessa · Abilene · Bryan