Quick answer:
- Ask for an upfront price range — and a real local address.
- Confirm they’re insured (NM has no license, so insurance is the protection).
- A good locksmith answers all of this without dodging.
The 7 Questions
Keep these handy — they work whether it’s a planned job or a stressful 2 a.m. lockout:
- “What’s the price range for this job?” You want a real range now, confirmed before work starts.
- “Where are you located?” A genuine Albuquerque address — not a vague “we’re in the area.”
- “Are you insured?” NM doesn’t license locksmiths, so insurance is the real protection.
- “Will the person who quotes me do the work?” Owner-operated beats anonymous subcontractors.
- “Do you verify ownership?” “Yes” is the right answer — it protects you.
- “Can you avoid drilling my lock?” Non-destructive entry should be the default.
- “What’s your arrival estimate?” A specific, honest ETA, not “15 minutes” from three towns away.
Answers That Should Worry You
Walk away if you hear: refusal to give any price, a quote that sounds too cheap to be real (the scam setup), no local address, a claim of a New Mexico “license number” (there isn’t one — see why), or pressure to decide instantly.
Why These Questions Work
Scammers rely on you being stressed and not asking. The moment you request specifics — price, address, insurance, process — the bad actors get vague and the legitimate locksmiths answer easily. It’s the fastest filter there is, and it pairs with our full how to choose a locksmith guide.
We’ll Pass the Test
Call Just In Time Locksmith and you’ll get straight answers to every one of these: an upfront price range, a real Albuquerque address, insured & bonded service, and the owner standing behind the work. (505) 818-0720, 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the single most important question?
Ask for the price range up front and confirm it before work begins. Pair that with verifying a real local address, and you’ve filtered out most bad actors.
Should I ask for a license number?
In New Mexico there’s no locksmith license, so asking for a “license number” can be misleading — if they claim one, be cautious. Ask about insurance instead.
Is it rude to ask all this during an emergency?
Not at all — a professional expects it and answers quickly. Taking two minutes to ask can save you from a big overcharge.
Need a locksmith in Albuquerque? Call Just In Time Locksmith at (505) 818-0720 for fast, local, upfront-priced service — or request service online. 24/7 across the metro.