State-by-State Restrictions

State-by-State Restrictions on Tools

Varying State Laws: Laws on lockpicking and entry tools can differ across U.S. states. While most states follow the “legal until used illegally” rule, some jurisdictions impose special restrictions or bans. Dark Wolf Tactical monitors these laws closely. Below is a summary of areas with notable restrictions — if you live in these places, extra steps or proof will be required before we ship to you:

California: Legal to buy/own lockpicks if no criminal intent, but California has strict rules on sales and locksmithing. Penal Code §466 makes it a misdemeanor to possess burglary tools only if you intend to break in illegally. However, California Penal Code §466.1 requires sellers to record the buyer’s information for certain lock tools (lock picks, tension bars, pick guns, etc.) and keep sales records for law enforcement inspection. We comply by documenting sales to California customers as required. California also restricts specialized automotive opening tools – for example, selling “motor vehicle master keys” (devices that open or start multiple cars) to unauthorized persons is illegal. If you are a California customer, be prepared to provide valid ID and locksmith or business information if ordering restricted items. We will only sell advanced car-opening tools to buyers who are exempt professionals (licensed locksmiths, dealerships, etc.), in accordance with California law.

Illinois: Strictest laws apply. Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/19-2.5) makes it a felony to sell or give lockpicks, bump keys, or similar burglary tools to anyone other than certain licensed professionals. The only legal buyers in Illinois are licensed locksmiths, law enforcement, tow/repo agents, or similar authorized parties. Dark Wolf Tactical will not ship lockpicking or entry tools to Illinois addresses without proof of proper credentials. If you are an Illinois locksmith or exempt professional, please contact us with your license information before ordering. Orders from Illinois without proof of exemption will be cancelled to comply with the law.

New York: In New York State, lockpicking tools are legal to possess only for lawful use, and possessing them with burglarious intent is a crime (similar to the PA rule). New York does not require a state locksmith license for mere possession, but New York City law requires anyone offering locksmith services to be licensed, and unlicensed persons possessing lockpicks in NYC could face scrutiny. For NY customers, we may inquire about your intended use or professional status. We recommend that only individuals with legitimate purposes (locksmiths, maintenance professionals, or hobbyists in lockpicking sport) purchase these tools. Using them in any illegal manner in NY can lead to charges for possession of burglar’s tools (a class A misdemeanor). We reserve the right to decline shipment to NYC addresses if we suspect illegal intent or if required by any local ordinance.

Washington, D.C.: The District of Columbia has been reported to prohibit possession of lockpicks by unlicensed individuals. In practice, D.C. treats lockpicks as burglary tools and may consider mere possession as evidence of criminal intent. We do not ship to Washington, D.C. addresses for lockpicking tools unless you are a licensed locksmith or have written authorization, due to the high risk of legal issues for customers in D.C.

Tennessee: Tennessee implemented a locksmith licensing law around 2007. It is believed that possession of lockpicks in Tennessee without a locksmith license may be illegal or at least heavily restricted. To err on the side of caution, Tennessee customers may be asked for proof of locksmith certification. If you cannot demonstrate a professional need, we may refuse the sale to comply with Tennessee’s law.

Nevada, Ohio, Virginia (Prima Facie States): In states like Nevada, Ohio, Virginia, and Mississippi, the law considers mere possession of lockpicks as “prima facie” evidence of criminal intent. This doesn’t outright ban the tools, but it means if you’re caught with them, the burden may fall on you to prove you weren’t planning a crime. Customers in these states should be aware of this legal climate – only order if you are confident in your lawful intent and status. Dark Wolf Tactical will still ship to these states (since possession is not flatly prohibited), but you assume full responsibility for obeying local laws and for proving your lawful intent if challenged by authorities.

Other States: Most other U.S. states (including Pennsylvania) do not require any license to simply own lockpicking tools. In many states (e.g. California, Florida, Texas, New Jersey and more), state law explicitly says these tools are legal to possess unless used for crime. A few states require a locksmith license to offer services but not to own tools (for example, North Carolina and New Jersey require locksmiths to be licensed, but a hobbyist can own picks legally). Always check your local city or county ordinances as well, because some cities may have stricter rules. Dark Wolf Tactical expects customers to be aware of and abide by their local laws. We will make a good-faith effort to notify or block orders that appear to violate a specific state’s law, but the ultimate responsibility lies with the buyer to purchase and use these items legally.

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