Certified Automotive Locksmith
Montreal's only ALOA CMAL certified automotive locksmith. The first in North America to achieve this highest industry credential.
What is ALOA Certification?
ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) is the industry's most respected professional organization, setting the standard for locksmith excellence since 1956. ALOA certification is the gold standard — a mark of verified expertise, ethical practice, and ongoing professional development.
For automotive locksmiths, ALOA offers two certifications:
- CAL (Certified Automotive Locksmith) — Entry-level automotive certification, demonstrating foundational knowledge and skills.
- CMAL (Certified Master Automotive Locksmith) — The highest credential available. Requires passing a rigorous practical exam, years of documented experience, and ongoing continuing education.
The CMAL designation is rare. Very few automotive locksmiths in North America hold it. It represents mastery of advanced techniques, deep knowledge of vehicle security systems, and a commitment to professional ethics.
First CMAL in North America
In 2015, Jerry Arnstein, founder of Autokey, became the first professional locksmith in North America to earn the ALOA Certified Master Automotive Locksmith (CMAL) designation.
This wasn't luck — it was the result of years of dedication, hundreds of hours of study, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The CMAL exam is notoriously difficult, testing not just technical knowledge but hands-on mastery of advanced automotive locksmithing techniques across dozens of vehicle makes and models.
Jerry didn't just pass — he set the bar. As the first CMAL in North America, he helped define what automotive locksmith excellence looks like. That standard continues to drive everything we do at Autokey.
2008 — The Journey Begins
Jerry founds Autokey with a mission: bring professional, certified automotive locksmith services to Montreal.
2012 — CAL Certification
Earns ALOA Certified Automotive Locksmith (CAL) credential, demonstrating foundational expertise.
2015 — CMAL Milestone
Becomes the first professional in North America to achieve CMAL certification — a historic moment in the industry.
2012 – Present — Ongoing Excellence
Continues to invest in training, equipment, and certifications. Autokey remains Montreal's only CMAL-certified automotive locksmith.
What Certification Means for You
When you choose a certified locksmith, you're not just hiring someone with tools and a truck. You're hiring a verified professional who has met rigorous standards and is accountable to an industry organization.
Verified Expertise
Passed written and practical exams covering advanced automotive locksmith techniques.
Background Checked
ALOA members undergo background checks and agree to a strict code of ethics.
Ongoing Training
Certification requires continuing education to stay current with evolving vehicle technology.
Professional Equipment
Investment in state-of-the-art tools and diagnostic equipment for all vehicle types.
Code of Ethics
Committed to honest service, fair pricing, and transparent communication.
Accountability
Membership with ALOA means we answer to a professional organization, not just ourselves.
Certified vs. Uncertified
Not all locksmiths are created equal. Here's what sets certified professionals apart.
ALOA CMAL Certified
- Training: Passed rigorous written and practical exams
- Experience: Years of documented professional work
- Equipment: Professional-grade diagnostic and programming tools
- Coverage: Widest range of makes and models
- Background: Verified and background-checked
- Accountability: Answers to ALOA professional standards
- Continuing Ed: Required ongoing training
- Insurance: Bonded and insured for your protection
- Warranty: Work backed by written warranty
- Ethics: Committed to ALOA code of conduct
Uncertified Locksmith
- Training: Self-taught or informal
- Experience: Unverified claims
- Equipment: May use consumer-grade tools
- Coverage: Limited vehicle types
- Background: Not verified
- Accountability: No industry oversight
- Continuing Ed: No ongoing training requirement
- Insurance: May not be properly insured
- Warranty: Often no formal warranty
- Ethics: No professional code to uphold
Your Car Deserves
the Best.
Call Montreal's only ALOA CMAL certified automotive locksmith.