ALOA CAL study plan
ALOA CAL · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
General Locksmithing Knowledge
Define the major lock families (cylindrical, mortise, rim, tubular, padlock) and label the components of each on a hand-drawn diagram
Identify and describe the function of at least 15 common locksmithing tools and materials from memory
Explain how a pin-tumbler cylinder works, tracing the path from key insertion to shear-line alignment
Sequence the standard rekey procedure for a residential knob cylinder and note each step's purpose
Your checkpoint
A one-page annotated cross-section diagram of a pin-tumbler cylinder with all components labeled and the shear line marked
General Locksmithing Knowledge & Mechanical and Electronic Lock Servicing
Compare at least six lock types by security rating, typical application, and failure mode in a written table
Disassemble and reassemble a practice pin-tumbler cylinder, recording each component and its orientation
Demonstrate correct use of plug followers and shims during a cylinder teardown without losing pins
Describe the purpose and function of at least five door hardware components (strike, latch, deadbolt, closer, hinge)
Your checkpoint
A completed lock comparison table covering six lock types with security ratings, applications, and failure modes
Mechanical and Electronic Lock Servicing
Diagnose three simulated lock faults (binding, misalignment, worn spring) and document the corrective action for each
Adjust a strike plate and latch to eliminate binding, verifying with a function test
Explain the operating principles of at least three electronic access control components (keypad, electromagnetic lock, credential reader)
Outline a troubleshooting sequence for a non-responsive electronic lock, from power source to credential verification
Your checkpoint
A written troubleshooting log for three lock faults listing symptoms, diagnosis, corrective action, and verification result
Keying, Master Keying, and Key Generation
Define the standard keying terms (bitting, cuts, root depth, MACS, progression) and use each correctly in a written explanation
Decode a provided bitting list and determine whether each key falls within MACS constraints
Calculate the total number of theoretical key changes for a given pin stack configuration
Identify the components of a master key system (change key, master key, grand master key) and their hierarchy
Your checkpoint
A MACS compliance check on a 20-key bitting list with pass/fail results and corrected cuts for any failures
Keying, Master Keying, and Key Generation
Construct a two-level master key system for a 12-door facility using a consistent pinning chart
Verify a master key chart by cross-checking every change key against the master key for shear-line conflicts
Cut or simulate at least five keys to a specified bitting and confirm each operates the intended cylinder
Explain the security trade-offs of master keying and identify at least three ways to limit exposure
Your checkpoint
A complete two-level master key pinning chart for 12 doors, verified conflict-free with a written cross-check
Professional Practices, Ethics, and Safety
Summarize the professional and ethical obligations of a locksmith regarding proof of authorization before servicing a lock
Draft a service authorization and work-order form that captures ownership verification and scope of work
Identify at least eight workplace safety hazards specific to locksmithing and state a control for each
Explain the legal and ethical boundaries around key duplication, impressioning, and bypass techniques
Your checkpoint
A service authorization and work-order template with an ownership-verification checklist and a hazard-control list of eight items
Professional Practices, Ethics, and Safety & General Locksmithing Knowledge
Apply a decision framework to three ethical dilemma scenarios and justify each resolution in writing
Describe proper handling and storage of key blanks, pin kits, and credential data to protect customer security
Review Domain 1 concepts by explaining three lock mechanisms aloud without notes
Practice safe shop procedures for cutting, pinning, and handling sharp or spring-loaded components
Your checkpoint
Written resolutions for three ethical dilemma scenarios, each with a stated principle and justification
General Locksmithing Knowledge & Mechanical and Electronic Lock Servicing & Keying, Master Keying, and Key Generation & Professional Practices, Ethics, and Safety
Complete two full-length timed practice exams and score each by domain
Identify the two weakest domains from practice results and re-study those areas for at least three hours
Recite key definitions, MACS rules, and master keying hierarchy from memory in a self-quiz
Build a one-page exam-day reference sheet of formulas, terms, and safety rules
Your checkpoint
Two scored practice exams with a domain-by-domain error analysis and a one-page exam-day reference sheet
Milestones
Week 2: Can label all pin-tumbler cylinder components and complete a teardown/reassembly unaided
Week 4: Can apply MACS rules correctly to a bitting list and explain keying terminology without notes
Week 5: Can produce a conflict-free two-level master key chart and verify it independently
Week 7: Can resolve ethical scenarios using a stated principle and list eight locksmithing hazards with controls
Week 8: Scores at least 80% on both timed practice exams with no domain below 70%