A invoice template built for automotive locksmiths. Download the PDF, or use Glo Invoice to send an invoice directly from your phone — pre-filled with the line items every automotive locksmith needs to bill for work without missing a charge.
Includes parts, labor, trip fees, tax handling, and the payment terms that actually get automotive locksmiths paid. Editable in Word, Google Docs, or on the fly inside Glo Invoice — no signup required for the PDF.
What to put on the document. Photo ID match to registration; VIN + plate; Reason for service; Proof of ownership note; Signed release of liability. Missing any one of these is the usual reason a automotive locksmith gets paid late or gets argued with.
Lockout service — typical $75–$175. A common automotive locksmith line. Ranges are national references, not quotes — set yours from your own cost, overhead, and local market.
Key cut (mechanical) — typical $40–$120. A common automotive locksmith line. Ranges are national references, not quotes — set yours from your own cost, overhead, and local market.
Transponder program — typical $80–$250. A common automotive locksmith line. Ranges are national references, not quotes — set yours from your own cost, overhead, and local market.
Smart-key replacement — typical $200–$500. A common automotive locksmith line. Ranges are national references, not quotes — set yours from your own cost, overhead, and local market.
Ignition rekey — typical $200–$450. A common automotive locksmith line. Ranges are national references, not quotes — set yours from your own cost, overhead, and local market.
Split parts and labor on separate lines. Most states tax materials but exempt service labor, so a single combined line either overcharges the customer or short-pays the state. Keep automotive locksmith parts, labor, and any trip fee on their own rows with a taxable flag each.
Estimate, invoice, or receipt?. An estimate quotes work before it starts and should be approved in writing. An invoice bills for work done and carries the due date and payment terms. A receipt records money already received. Sending the wrong one is the most common paperwork mistake in the trades.
Write the payment terms down. Due on receipt, Net 15, or Net 30 — plus the deposit amount and any late fee allowed in your state. Terms that only exist in conversation don't get honored.
Frequently asked questions
Do I charge sales tax on automotive locksmith work?
Most US states tax parts/materials but exempt labor. Use Glo Invoice's per-line tax toggle so each automotive locksmith line item is taxed correctly. Check your state — a few (HI, NM, SD, WV) tax services too.
What if they don't have ID?
Decline the job. Liability is too high. Document refusal.
Can I program any key?
Most pre-2020. Some Tesla/BMW/Mercedes require dealer tools — disclose first.
What should a automotive locksmith invoice include?
Photo ID match to registration, VIN + plate, Reason for service, Proof of ownership note, Signed release of liability — plus your business name, license number where required, itemized lines, subtotal, tax, total, and payment terms.
Should I take a deposit on automotive locksmith work?
For material-heavy or scheduled jobs, yes — a deposit covers what you have to buy up front and confirms the customer is serious. Show it as its own line and subtract it from the balance due.
Can I fill this out from my phone at the job?
Yes. The PDF is editable in Word or Google Docs, and Glo Invoice builds the same invoice on your phone and sends it by text or email with a pay link before you leave.
What if the customer doesn't pay?
Send a written reminder at 7, 14, and 21 days past due, keep the record of the sent document, and add a late fee only if your state and your written terms allow it.
