452 Motor Vehicle Master Keys and Locksmithing Devices

452.1 Definitions

452.11 Motor Vehicle Master Keys

A motor vehicle master key is any of the following:

  1. Motor vehicle master keys, as defined in 452.11, and any advertisement for the sale of such items, are nonmailable unless sent to any of the following categories of addressees:
  2. The key (or an exact duplicate) furnished with a replacement lock.
  3. Any key or manipulation device designed to operate two or more motor vehicle ignition, door, or trunk locks of different combinations, including any pattern, impression, or mold from which a master key or manipulation device can be made (18 U.S.C. 1716 and
    39 U.S.C. 3002).
452.12 Locksmithing Devices

A locksmithing device is any of the following:

  1. A device or tool (other than a key) designed to manipulate the tumblers in a lock into the unlocked position through the keyway of such lock.
  2. A device or tool (other than a key or a device or tool under 452.12a) designed for bypassing a lock or similar security device, or for opening it by a method normally not used by consumers to open such locks or security devices.
  3. A device or tool designed for making an impression of a key or similar security device in order to duplicate such key or device.

452.2 Mailability

The following conditions apply:

  1. Motor vehicle master keys, as defined in 452.11, and any advertisement for the sale of such items, are nonmailable unless sent to any of the following categories of addressees:
    1. Lock manufacturers.
    2. Professional locksmiths.
    3. Motor vehicle manufacturers or dealers.
    4. Federal, state, or local government agencies.
  2. Locksmithing devices, as defined in 452.11, are nonmailable except when sent to any of the following categories of addressees:
    1. Lock manufacturers or distributors.
    2. Bona fide locksmiths.
    3. Bona fide repossessors.
    4. Motor vehicle manufacturers or dealers.
    5. Bona fide automotive repair shops or businesses.

452.3 Packaging and Marking

No marking of any kind that indicates the nature of the contents may be placed on the outer wrapper or packaging of any mailpiece containing motor vehicle master keys or locksmithing devices. Mailable matter must be properly and securely packaged within the general requirements in DMM 601.1-7.

452.4 Nonmailable Matter Found in the Mails

All nonmailable motor vehicle master keys and locksmithing devices discovered in the mailstream must be reported in accordance with POM 139.117.