Searching for locksmith prices in Dallas? Whether you've locked yourself out of your house in the middle of the day or your car is locked in a Walmart parking lot at 10 PM, this guide gives you real numbers to work with. Dallas has a competitive locksmith market, but knowing what to expect keeps you from getting taken advantage of.
Quick answer: A residential lockout in Dallas typically costs $80 to $175. Car lockouts run $70 to $145. Rekeying a lock costs $55 to $105, and deadbolt replacement with installation costs $100 to $240.
How Dallas Locksmith Pricing Compares
Dallas is one of the more affordable major metro areas for locksmith services. Texas overall has lower overhead costs than coastal states, and Dallas's competitive market keeps prices reasonable. That said, pricing still varies depending on time of day, distance, and what kind of lock or service you need.
Factors that affect your cost:
Time of call. After-hours and weekend service adds $30–$65 to any job. If you call at 2 AM, expect to pay toward the higher end of the range.
Distance. Dallas is spread across a large metro. A locksmith in Plano may charge a travel fee to come to Oak Cliff. Always ask upfront.
Lock type. Standard pin tumbler locks (what most homes have) are straightforward. High-security locks, smart locks, or older lock styles take more time and skill.
Service type. A lockout is simpler and cheaper than rekeying, which is cheaper than full lock replacement.
Dallas Locksmith Price Breakdown (2026)
Residential Services
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Lockout (basic lock) | $80 – $145 |
| Lockout (deadbolt/high-security) | $110 – $175 |
| Rekey one lock | $55 – $105 |
| Rekey whole home | $140 – $320 |
| Replace deadbolt (parts + labor) | $100 – $240 |
| Install new lock set | $100 – $220 |
| Emergency after-hours fee | +$30 – $65 |
Car Lockout Services
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic car lockout | $70 – $140 |
| Car lockout (truck/SUV) | $85 – $155 |
| Broken key extraction | $80 – $165 |
| Transponder key programming | $140 – $380 |
Commercial Services
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Commercial lockout | $120 – $325 |
| Master key system | $250 – $700+ |
| High-security lock install | $225 – $600+ |
Texas DPS Licensing in Dallas
Texas requires all locksmiths to be licensed through the Texas Department of Public Safety (TX DPS). This is a background-check and certification requirement — it's not just a business registration.
Before any locksmith shows up at your door, ask for their Texas DPS Locksmith License number. You can verify it on the TX DPS website. Any legitimate locksmith will give you this willingly.
Dallas is a large enough market that unlicensed operators exist. They often advertise online with suspiciously low prices. The Texas DPS does enforce licensing requirements, but that doesn't stop people from trying. Your best protection is verifying before they arrive.
Car Lockouts in Dallas
Car lockouts are very common in Dallas, particularly in summer. Texas heat means people move fast between air-conditioned spaces, and keys get left inside frequently. Grocery store parking lots, office garages, and restaurant lots are common locations for lockout calls.
Most car lockouts in Dallas are resolved with non-destructive methods — a slim jim, long-reach tool, or air wedge. This takes 10–20 minutes for most vehicles and should not require drilling.
If a locksmith tells you they need to drill into your car door to get you in, ask them to explain why. For 99% of standard cars, drilling is not necessary for a lockout. This is one of the most common upsells in the scam playbook.
What to do if you're locked out of your car in Dallas:
- Check if any other door or window is unlocked first
- Check your roadside assistance (insurance, AAA, credit card)
- Call a licensed Dallas locksmith with TX DPS credentials
- Confirm the total price before they start
The DFW Metro — Coverage Across the Metroplex
Dallas proper and the broader DFW Metroplex are different things. Many people searching for "Dallas locksmith" are actually in Plano, Garland, Irving, Mesquite, Arlington, or Grand Prairie. Here's what to know:
Inside Dallas city limits: Strong coverage, competitive pricing, 20–45 minute response typical.
Inner suburbs (Plano, Irving, Garland, Mesquite): Usually well-served. Some locksmiths may add a small trip fee, $15–$30.
Fort Worth: Technically a separate city. You're better off searching specifically for Fort Worth locksmiths rather than Dallas ones — they'll be closer and won't charge distance fees.
Outer suburbs (Frisco, McKinney, Rockwall, Mansfield): Fewer options, potentially longer wait times, and some companies may add travel fees of $20–$40.
Finding a Trustworthy Dallas Locksmith
Like most major metro areas, Dallas has both reputable locksmiths and scam operators. The Texas DPS licensing requirement is your biggest filter.
Quick checklist for finding a legitimate Dallas locksmith:
- Ask for their TX DPS license number before they come out
- Verify the license on the TX DPS website
- Look for a real physical address in the metro (not just a phone number and a city name)
- Get a total price estimate over the phone — not just "starting at $X"
- Read reviews on Google AND Yelp (not just one platform)
- Avoid businesses that only accept cash
After-Hours and Emergency Service
Dallas locksmiths typically add an emergency fee of $30–$65 for calls outside regular business hours (usually after 8 or 9 PM on weekdays, and for weekend/holiday calls).
A lockout that costs $95 during business hours might run $135–$160 at 11 PM. This is normal and expected — the locksmith is giving up personal time to help you.
What is NOT normal: being quoted $35 on the phone and then handed a $350 bill after the job is done. If that happens, dispute the charge with your credit card company and report the business to the Texas DPS and the Texas AG's consumer protection office.
Saving Money on Locksmith Services in Dallas
Make a spare key now. Most hardware stores and big-box retailers (Home Depot, Lowe's, Walmart) cut basic keys for $2–$8. Leave one with a trusted person.
Check your roadside assistance first. Auto insurance, AAA, and many credit cards include free or subsidized lockout service. Read your policy before you need it.
For apartment renters: Dallas apartment complexes typically have a leasing office or maintenance line. Many will let you in for free, especially during business hours.
Compare prices. If time allows, call two locksmiths and compare quotes. In a market this competitive, a $20–$40 difference between providers is common.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the average locksmith cost in Dallas?
For a standard residential lockout during business hours, $80–$145 is typical from a licensed locksmith. Car lockouts average $70–$140. After-hours, add $30–$65 to those numbers.
Do Dallas locksmiths have to be licensed?
Yes. Texas law requires locksmiths to hold a license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (TX DPS). You can verify any locksmith's license on the TX DPS website. Always ask before they come out.
How do I know if a Dallas locksmith is legitimate?
Ask for their TX DPS license number and verify it. Look for a real physical address. Get a price estimate over the phone. Check reviews on multiple platforms. Avoid anyone who quotes you $25 to unlock your door — that's not a real number.
How long does a locksmith take to arrive in Dallas?
During business hours, most Dallas locksmiths can arrive in 20–45 minutes. After hours or during bad weather, plan for 45–75 minutes. Always ask for an estimated arrival time when you call.
Can I dispute a locksmith charge in Texas?
Yes. If you were overcharged, start by talking to the company directly. If that fails, dispute the charge with your credit card company if you paid by card. You can also file a complaint with the Texas DPS (which licenses locksmiths) and the Texas Attorney General's consumer protection division.
Is rekeying or replacing my Dallas home's locks the better value?
For most situations — moving into a new home, after a breakup, or if you've lost a key — rekeying is the better value. It costs $55–$105 per lock versus $100–$240 for full replacement, and provides the same security (the old keys no longer work). Replace only if the lock is damaged or you want a higher-security upgrade.