Do locksmiths get their license through the state contractors licensing board?

That depends on the state. Some states do have a locksmith license that is issued through a licensing board. For the states that do not have such a license, a locksmith simply needs a business license at the city or county level. Organizations such as the Associated Locksmiths of America are generally recognized as the industries authority when it comes to credentials. Some locksmiths in states that do not require any special license, choose to register with ALOA and attain the ability to advertise as a Certified Registered Locksmith or higher. Again, this is not an official title except by ALOA’s standard.