The most common places to copy a key are hardware stores, locksmiths, and big-box retailers
You can get a key copied at a hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe's, at a locksmith shop, at a big-box retailer like Walmart or Target, or sometimes at your bank if you have a safe deposit box. The fastest option is usually a hardware store in your neighborhood — most have key-copying machines on-site and can finish the job while you wait, usually in under five minutes. A locksmith will copy any key but costs more and may take longer unless you call ahead.
The cost varies by location and key type, but a basic house or office key typically costs between $2 and $5 at a hardware store. Specialty keys — like car keys with electronic chips, mailbox keys, or padlock keys — cost more and may require a locksmith. Some keys cannot be copied at all because they are marked "Do Not Duplicate" by the manufacturer, though a locksmith can sometimes make a copy anyway if you can prove you own the lock.
Key Takeaways
- Hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's have key-copying machines and usually finish standard keys in under five minutes.
- A basic house key costs $2 to $5 at a hardware store, while specialty keys like car keys cost more and may need a locksmith.
- Keys marked "Do Not Duplicate" can sometimes be copied by a locksmith if you can show proof of ownership.
- Locksmiths cost more than hardware stores but can handle unusual keys and may offer same-day service if you call ahead.
Hardware stores and big-box retailers
Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, and similar stores have self-service key-copying machines or staff who operate them. You bring your original key, place it in the machine, insert a blank key, and the machine traces and cuts the copy. The whole process takes two to five minutes. These stores are open during regular business hours, usually 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and you do not need an appointment.
Walmart and Target also offer key copying at the customer service desk. The cost is similar to hardware stores — usually $2 to $4 per key — and the wait is short unless the store is busy. Some Walmart locations have self-service machines, while others require you to hand your key to an employee. Call ahead if you are unsure whether your nearest location offers the service.
Locksmith shops
A locksmith is a professional who specializes in locks and keys. They can copy almost any key, including ones marked "Do Not Duplicate," and they can handle unusual or damaged keys that a hardware store machine cannot read. Locksmiths cost more — typically $5 to $15 per key — but they work with keys that machines cannot process.
Find a locksmith by searching online for "locksmith near me" or asking your landlord or property manager for a recommendation. Call before you visit to confirm they are open and can handle your key type. Many locksmiths offer same-day service, and some are available 24 hours for emergencies. If you need a copy of a key marked "Do Not Duplicate," tell the locksmith upfront — they will ask for proof that you own the lock, such as a photo of the lock on your property or a receipt.
Keys that cannot be copied at a hardware store
Some keys are designed so that only the manufacturer or an authorized locksmith can copy them. Car keys with electronic chips, high-security keys used in commercial buildings, and keys marked "Do Not Duplicate" fall into this category. A hardware store machine will not work on these keys because the blank key is not available to the public.
If you need a copy of a restricted key, contact a locksmith or the manufacturer. For car keys, your car dealership can make a copy, though they usually charge more than a locksmith. For commercial or high-security keys, contact the building manager or the company that installed the lock — they can direct you to an authorized locksmith in your area.
What to bring when you get a key copied
Bring only your original key. You do not need identification, proof of ownership, or any documents for a standard key copy at a hardware store or big-box retailer. The staff will not ask questions — they will straightforward copy the key you hand them.
If you are copying a key marked "Do Not Duplicate" at a locksmith, bring proof that you own the lock. A photo of the lock on your door, a lease or deed showing your address, or a receipt for the lock all work. The locksmith needs this to confirm you are not trying to copy someone else's key.
Cost and timing by location type
| Location | Cost per key | Time to copy | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware store (Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace) | $2–$4 | 2–5 minutes | Standard house and office keys |
| Big-box retailer (Walmart, Target) | $2–$4 | 5–10 minutes | Standard keys, convenient location |
| Locksmith shop | $5–$15 | Same day or next day | Restricted keys, damaged keys, "Do Not Duplicate" keys |
| Car dealership | $10–$50 | 1–3 days | Car keys with electronic chips |
What happens if the copy does not work
If a key copy does not turn in the lock, go back to the place where you had it copied. Most hardware stores and retailers will make a new copy for free if the first one does not work. Bring both the original key and the copy that did not work so the staff can see what went wrong.
If you had the key copied at a locksmith and it does not work, call them and explain the problem. They may ask you to bring the key back in, or they may make a new copy over the phone if they have your information on file. Locksmiths usually stand behind their work, but confirm their policy before you leave the shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I copy a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it?
A hardware store machine will refuse to copy it, but a locksmith can usually make a copy if you show proof that you own the lock. Bring a photo of the lock on your property, a lease, or a receipt. The locksmith needs this to confirm the key is yours.
How much does it cost to copy a car key?
A basic car key without an electronic chip costs $5 to $10 at a locksmith. Car keys with chips or remote buttons cost $10 to $50 at a locksmith or $20 to $50 at a dealership. Dealerships take longer but may be necessary for newer vehicles.
What if I lost my only key and need a copy made?
You cannot copy a key you do not have. Contact a locksmith instead — they can pick or drill the lock and create a new key from scratch. This costs more than copying (usually $50 to $200) and takes longer, but it is the only option if the original key is gone.
Do I need to show ID to get a key copied?
No. Hardware stores and big-box retailers do not ask for identification to copy a standard key. If you are copying a restricted key at a locksmith, they will ask for proof of ownership, but not a government ID.
How long does a key copy last?
A properly made key copy lasts as long as the original — there is no expiration date. If the copy wears out or breaks, you can have it copied again or make a new copy from the original.