ALOA CMST study plan

Define each major safe and vault type (burglary, fire, TL-rated, composite, gun, deposit) and list the construction features that distinguish them

Explain the function of each major lock group (mechanical combination, electronic, key-operated, time delay) and match it to the container types it commonly secures

Diagram the internal layout of a standard combination lock pack, labeling wheel stack, drive cam, fence, and spindle

Identify relocker, glass plate, and hardplate locations on at least three container categories

Compare boltwork arrangements (live bolts, dead bolts, cross-bolting, direct-drive) and state the security tradeoffs of each

Describe relocking devices and explain how they trigger under attack conditions

Explain fire-resistant construction materials and the ratings terminology used to describe them

List common container vulnerabilities (door flex, bolt cut, hinge attack, dial drilling) and the countermeasure for each

Perform dialing sequences for standard three- and four-wheel combination locks on a practice container until repeatable without reference

Demonstrate manipulation technique steps (contact points, wheel-by-wheel reading, graphing) on a training lock

Explain the theory behind reading wheel contact points and how graphs reveal combination digits

Identify when manipulation is impractical and select an alternative opening method

Describe drilling procedures for common lock types, including drill point selection and depth control

Explain scope-of-practice limits and when to recommend destructive versus non-destructive opening

Outline safe-opening documentation requirements for a customer job

Distinguish legitimate opening techniques from methods outside your training or authorization

Disassemble and reassemble a combination lock pack, documenting each component and its function

Diagnose common lock faults (wheel binding, fence wear, spindle misalignment, dial slippage) from symptoms

Explain combination changing procedures and the steps that prevent lockout after a change

Describe lubrication and cleaning practices appropriate to lock mechanisms

Write a service-call workflow from intake through test-and-verify, including customer sign-off

Identify ethical obligations around customer confidentiality, combination handling, and proof of authorization

Explain warranty, liability, and recordkeeping expectations for lock servicing work

Practice explaining a repair recommendation to a customer in plain language

Draft a pricing structure for common services (opening, combination change, service call) with cost basis noted

List business compliance items relevant to a locksmith operation (licensing, insurance, contracts)

Describe professional standards for handling keys, combinations, and customer property

Identify red flags in requests that may indicate improper intent and state the appropriate response

Complete a full-length timed practice exam and score each domain separately

Review every missed item and write a corrected explanation for each

Re-drill the two weakest domains with targeted practice

Confirm readiness thresholds and schedule the exam