CRL Practice Exam Questions And

ALOA Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL) Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a master key system?
• To increase key duplication restrictions
• To provide a single key that operates multiple locks
• To allow different levels of access for different users
• To prevent unauthorized key control

Rationale: Master key systems are designed so that one key can open

multiple locks while allowing individual keys to open only specific locks.

• Which of the following is a common type of cylinder used in residential

locks?

• Mortise cylinder 1 / 4

• Pin tumbler cylinder
• Disc tumbler cylinder
• Tubular cylinder

Rationale: Pin tumbler cylinders are widely used in residential door locks

due to their simplicity and security features.

• In key bitting, what does the term “spacing” refer to?
• Distance between cuts on a key
• Depth of each cut
• Number of pins in the cylinder
• Keyway profile

Rationale: Spacing is the distance between cuts along a key blade, which

corresponds to pin placement in the cylinder.

• What type of key blank is used for high-security locks with sidebar

mechanisms?

• Standard pin tumbler blank
• Dimple key blank
• Skeleton key blank
• Tubular key blank

Rationale: Dimple keys are used for high-security locks that incorporate

sidebars or other advanced features.

• Which locksmithing tool is primarily used for impressioning a key?
• Plug spinner
• Tension wrench 2 / 4

• File
• Pick gun

Rationale: A file is used in the key impressioning process to gradually

create a key that matches the lock’s pins or wards.

• What is the function of a deadbolt?
• To provide cosmetic door reinforcement
• To resist forced entry more effectively than a spring latch
• To automatically lock when the door closes
• To prevent key duplication

Rationale: Deadbolts provide enhanced security by using a solid bolt that

resists prying and forced entry.

• What does the term “keyway” describe?
• The process of duplicating a key
• The type of lock cylinder
• The slot or shape of the lock that accepts a key
• The bitting code

Rationale: The keyway is the specific profile of a lock cylinder where the

key is inserted.

• Which type of lock is commonly used on commercial aluminum

storefront doors?

• Mortise lock
• Cylindrical lock
• Rim lock 3 / 4

• Tubular latch

Rationale: Cylindrical locks are common in commercial aluminum doors

due to ease of installation and durability.

• What is the purpose of a plug follower?
• To tension the lock during picking
• To remove pins from a cylinder
• To push the plug out without displacing the driver pins
• To rekey a padlock

Rationale: A plug follower is used to push the plug out while keeping the

driver pins in the top chamber, preventing them from falling into the plug.

• What is a common material for high-security key blanks?
• Brass
• Plastic
• Nickel silver
• Aluminum

Rationale: Nickel silver is commonly used for high-security keys because it

is durable, resists wear, and is easy to machine.

• Which locksmithing tool is used to tension a cylinder while picking?
• Rake pick
• Tension screwdriver
• Tension wrench
• Plug follower
• / 4