Practice Exam Questions And Correct

ALOA Certified Master Locksmith (CML) 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 allow all users unrestricted access to all areas
• To provide a backup key in case of loss
• To allow selective access to multiple locks with one key
• To reduce the number of locks needed

Rationale: Master key systems are designed to allow a single key (master

key) to open multiple locks while maintaining individual keys for specific locks.

• Which type of lock is most commonly used in residential applications?
• Mortise lock 1 / 4

• Rim cylinder lock
• Cylindrical lock
• Deadbolt

Rationale: Cylindrical locks are widely used in residential doors due to their

ease of installation and moderate security.

• What is the standard keyway for Schlage commercial locks?
• Kwikset KW1
• Schlage SC1
• Yale Y1
• Medeco M3

Rationale: SC1 is the standard keyway for Schlage commercial pin tumbler

locks.

• Which type of key duplication method is considered the most precise for

restricted key systems?

• Manual duplication on a bench vise
• Key machine with original code cutting
• Filing by hand
• Impressioning from the lock

Rationale: Cutting keys to the original code on a precision machine ensures

accurate replication for restricted systems.

• In a pin tumbler lock, what is the function of the driver pins?
• To engage the key cuts directly
• To prevent rotation of the plug without the key 2 / 4

• To sit above the key pins and block the shear line
• To lubricate the lock mechanism

Rationale: Driver pins sit above key pins and prevent plug rotation until the

correct key aligns them at the shear line.

• What type of door hardware requires a fire rating?
• Sliding glass doors
• Screen doors
• Exterior doors in commercial buildings
• Cabinet doors

Rationale: Fire-rated hardware is required on doors that serve as part of a

building’s fire-rated assembly.

• Which locksmith tool is used specifically to decode a tubular lock?
• Tension wrench
• Plug spinner
• Pick gun
• Tubular decoder

Rationale: A tubular decoder measures the depth of each pin to allow

proper key creation for tubular locks.

• When should a locksmith use a core extraction tool?
• To install a new lock cylinder
• To remove a broken or jammed lock core
• To duplicate a key
• To lubricate a lock 3 / 4

Rationale: Core extraction tools are designed to safely remove cores from

locks without damaging the housing.

• What is the main advantage of an electronic access control system over

traditional mechanical locks?

• Lower installation cost
• Ability to control and audit access remotely
• No maintenance required
• Cannot be bypassed

Rationale: Electronic access control allows administrators to monitor,

restrict, and record access electronically.

• Which type of safe is specifically designed to resist torch and drill

attacks?

• Fire-resistant safe
• Burglar-resistant safe
• Wall safe
• Depository safe

Rationale: Burglar-resistant safes are constructed with materials and

designs that resist physical attacks like drilling and cutting.

• What is the primary reason for rekeying a lock?
• To replace a broken key
• To prevent access by individuals with old keys
• To upgrade the lock hardware
• To increase door security rating
• / 4