Is it Illegal to Own a Lock Pick Set?
The answer is yes and no. YES, if the laws of your State of residence permit individuals to own lock picking tools and NO if your State laws do not permit.
Are Bump Keys Illegal?
In the US there are several states that have unique laws regarding the possession of lock picks. Three of these states have specific laws directly restricting lock picking tools. These states are:Mississippi: Possession of lock picks is legal so long as they are not concealed. However, once you put them in your pocket it becomes intent to commit a crime. If you live in this state and own lock picks, leave them at home.
Mississippi: Possession of lock picks is legal so long as they are not concealed. However, once you put them in your pocket it becomes intent to commit a crime. If you live in this state and own lock picks, leave them at home.
Tennessee: Possession of lock picks is legal, however, Tennessee has some very strict laws to prevent locksmith fraud. If you live in this state it is illegal to use your skills for any sort of profit unless you are a licensed locksmith. If you don't have a license be sure to keep it a hobby.
Illinois: Possession of lock picks is legal, however, the possession of bump keys is illegal.
Nevada: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
Ohio: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
Virginia: Illegal; Possession can be prima facie evidence of criminal intent. You may have to prove noncriminal intent.
Here is our interactive map containing current United States lock picking laws. Hover over your state to check the legality of possessing lock picks and click to read relevant law excerpts.
It is considered “prima facie evidence” to own these tools (lock picks, Bump keys, etc.). That is, you may have to prove you weren’t intending to use them for burglary.Is it Illegal to Own Bolt Cutters?In most states, it’s not illegal to own or carry bolt cutters, so long as the possessor shows no intent of using the tools in the commission of a crime.
That said, the next few paragraphs provide more details about lock pick tools and Bump keys possession in each State—based on the existing laws.Possession of Lock Picks, Bump Keys, and Other Tools: Rules Per StatePossession of lock pick tools, Bump keys, and the like is legal in Alaska, so long as the possessor has no intent to use the tools for nefarious acts (burglary).
A further interpretation of this rule could mean that individuals suspected of using such tools for nefarious acts may go through court proceedings to prove if they’re guilty.
Arkansas
There are no specific laws about possession of lock picking tools, Bump keys, and the like in Arkansas. So this could suggest that anyone can purchase and own lock pick sets tools.Purchasing and owning Bump keys and lock pick tools isn’t illegal in Arizona.However, the law provides that anyone in possession of such tools and intending to commit any form of burglary commits a crime—possession of burglary tools, which is illegal.