CAL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CAL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What does 'ignition switch staging' refer to in automotive locksmith practice? → Testing each ignition position (ACC, ON, START) for proper function
2. What does 'PATS' stand for in Ford vehicle security systems? → Passive Anti-Theft System
3. A 2012 Ford F-150 requires ignition lock cylinder replacement. The new cylinder must be? → Installed first, then keys cut and programmed
4. What is the role of EEPROM in automotive locksmithing? → Stores and modifies key data
5. Which of the following is a critical prerequisite before cutting and programming a new key for a customer in an 'All Keys Lost' situation? → Verifying the customer's proof of ownership of the vehicle.
6. In a power sliding door system (common on minivans), what additional component manages lock engagement compared to a standard hinged door? → A dedicated door control module and motorized latch assembly
7. What does the term 'key learning' mean in the context of immobilizer EEPROM data? → The process of storing a new transponder's crypto value into the ECU or immobilizer EEPROM
8. On a vehicle with a vertical push-button door lock, what tool tip orientation is most effective? → A loop or U-shaped tip that can press down directly on top of the button
9. In automotive key generation, 'bitting depth' refers to: → The height of each individual cut on the key
10. Which type of key cutting machine uses a stylus tracing a code wheel or original key to reproduce a cut pattern? → Pantograph duplicator
11. In BMW CAS (Car Access System) modules, where is the ISN (Individual Serial Number) critical for key programming stored? → In the CAS module's EEPROM or flash memory
12. What does the term 'key bitting' refer to in automotive locksmithing? → The specific combination of cut depths and positions that operate a particular lock
13. Which statement about GM's VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) ignition keys is correct? → VATS keys use a resistor pellet embedded in the key blade
14. Which tool is specifically designed to work around an anti-slim jim guard found in many modern vehicles? → Under-door long-reach tool
15. Which tool type is commonly used to physically read an EEPROM chip by connecting directly to its pins? → In-circuit programmer with clip adapter
16. Which of the following statements about laser-cut (also called sidewinder) automotive keys is correct? → They have cuts milled into the center of the key blade on one or both sides
17. Which entry technique is preferred when a vehicle's window is already cracked open slightly? → Insert a long-reach tool through the window gap to operate the interior lock or handle
18. Which tool do automotive locksmiths use to re-energize or test a 'dead' (low battery) smart key fob to determine if the key itself is functional? → Emergency smart key tester or transponder tester with fob reader capability
19. The term 'key blank cross-reference' is used in automotive locksmithing to describe: → Finding alternative compatible key blank numbers from different manufacturers
20. What is the primary purpose of a transponder chip embedded in a high-security automotive key? → To communicate an immobilizer code to the ECU
21. Which tool is specifically used to extract a broken key fragment that has snapped off inside an automotive door lock cylinder? → Key extractor
22. Which of the following describes the most appropriate first step in a non-destructive vehicle entry scenario? → Verify ownership and authorization to gain entry
23. What is a 'super chip' or 'multi-chip' used for in high-security key duplication? → It is a chip that can emulate multiple transponder types depending on programming
24. A 2019 Ford F-150 has a power door lock with no visible lock button on the door panel. How should the locksmith approach entry? → Use a long-reach tool to actuate the manual lock lever or pull the interior door handle
25. Which vehicle body style presents the greatest challenge when using an air wedge for lockout entry? → Convertible with a soft top
26. What does 'dealer-level programming' refer to in automotive locksmith practice? → Using OBD-II or proprietary software to write new key data directly to the vehicle's ECU
27. When disassembling an automotive door lock cylinder, which small component is responsible for retaining the key in the lock when it is at the rest position? → The key retainer or wards spring
28. After successfully opening a locked vehicle, what should the locksmith do before handing the keys back to the customer? → Test all four door locks and windows to ensure nothing was damaged during the procedure
29. A technician is programming a new remote key fob but the vehicle only accepts one key during the programming session. What is the most likely cause? → The vehicle has already reached its maximum stored key limit
30. A technician is cutting a Medeco automotive key. What is the distinguishing feature of Medeco's key design that adds a layer of security? → Rotating key pins that require angular cuts in addition to depth cuts