What Types of Keys can a Locksmith Duplicate? (2024)

When you need a new key, a locksmith will be able to provide duplicate keys for you. Even if you don't have a key for a specific lock, it's possible a locksmith can help.

There are several types of keys and it's helpful to know which ones a locksmith will duplicate for you. Here's a look at the most common keys a locksmith will be able to duplicate.

"Do Not Duplicate" Keys

The biggest question many people have when it comes to keys being duplicated by a locksmith are the keys labeled as "Do Not Duplicate". These keys seem like they shouldn't be able to be duplicated, but that's a myth.

There are no regulations or laws keeping a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it from being duplicated. While chain hardware stores may refuse to duplicate these keys, locksmiths will often be able to provide a duplicate key.

Restricted Keys

While "Do Not Duplicate" keys are not considered restricted keys, there are some keys Locksmiths refer to as "restricted". These types of keys may not be able to be duplicated due to the duplication rights of the original manufacturer. In addition, these keys are harder to copy due to the type of equipment necessary and the patent-protected design.

Any key classified as "restricted" is covered by U.S. Patent Laws, making it a key you will likely not find a locksmith willing to duplicate. The penalty for duplicating this type of key can be a fine of up to $10,000.

Keys Locksmiths Will Duplicate

Most keys a locksmith can create a duplicate for. Some of the more common options include:

  • Yale Key - This is a standard, smaller key and can be cut pretty quickly by a locksmith.

  • Chubb Keys - A larger key with a unique design, Chubb Keys take longer to duplicate, but they can certainly be duplicated by a locksmith.

  • Safe Keys - All types of unique safe keys can be duplicated and may take longer, depending on the type of key.

  • Car Keys - Some car keys can be duplicated by a locksmith, while others require a brand new key to be created. Most modern car keys have to be created and cannot truly be duplicated by simply cutting a new key.

  • House Keys - Keys for locks on the front door of a home can easily be duplicated by a locksmith.

  • Padlock Keys - Often, padlock keys are Yale Keys and even those that are not Yale Keys can be duplicated.

The Professional Locksmith will not only duplicate most keys but will also be able to ensure you know which keys can be easily duplicated and which might provide a better form of security. Whether you're trying to choose a lock to ensure the keys cannot easily be duplicated or you need a copy of a key created, The Professional Locksmith can help.

Having the right key matters and you want a duplicate made by a professional. With the right duplicate, you won't have to worry about whether the new key will work or not. If you need a key duplicated, call your Chicago locksmith today!

What Types of Keys can a Locksmith Duplicate? (2024)

FAQs

What Types of Keys can a Locksmith Duplicate? ›

Most keys a locksmith can create a duplicate for. Some of the more common options include: Yale Key - This is a standard, smaller key and can be cut pretty quickly by a locksmith. Chubb Keys - A larger key with a unique design, Chubb Keys take longer to duplicate, but they can certainly be duplicated by a locksmith.

What type of key Cannot be duplicated? ›

These are non-duplicable keys:
  • Transponder Key.
  • Laser Cut Car Key.
  • VAT Key.
  • Abloy keys.
  • Tubular Keys.
  • Internal Cut Keys.
  • Four-Sided Key.
Apr 29, 2021

Is there certain keys that cant be copied? ›

There are certain types of DND keys which are actually illegal to copy. They are called restricted keys and provide a much higher level of security for your homes and businesses. Restricted keys are keys that can only be cut by authorised locksmiths with permission from an authorised person who manages the key system.

Which keys can be duplicated? ›

So, the next time you need a duplicate key of a stamped DND, a locksmith can make you one using duplicate key machine.
  • Transponder Keys. They are among the modern keys since they contain microchips. ...
  • Laser Cut Car Keys. ...
  • VAT Keys. ...
  • Abloy Keys. ...
  • Tubular Keys. ...
  • Four-Sided Key. ...
  • Deadbolt Keys. ...
  • Knoblock Keys.
Jun 20, 2022

Why can't some keys be duplicated? ›

In order to make some of their products more secure, lock makers have made restricted keys which are harder to copy because the process requires special equipment and because the key design is patent protected.

How do you know if a key can be duplicated? ›

While it's frustrating for a customer to find out that they have been provided with a "do not duplicate" key, the good news is, all types of keys can be duplicated. The “Do Not Copy” inscription on a key acts as a warning, but it does not actually prevent someone from duplicating the key.

How do you copy a key that Cannot be copied? ›

First, if you want to get a restricted key copied, then you need to get permission from the owner before the key can be copied. This permission needs to be given with specific documentation that specifies that you can have copies. Then, you will need to take this permission to the original locksmith.

Will Home Depot copy a key that says do not copy? ›

Will Home Depot Copy a Do Not Duplicate Key. Most employees at Home Depot will not copy "DO NOT DUPLICATE" keys or any other type of restricted key such as a postal office key.

What does a laser cut key look like? ›

Usually, laser-cut keys are cut in the middle, not on the sides. This new cutting method gives them their unique shape. A sidewinder key is significantly more durable and secure than the old metal "blank key" we once used to have.

What is a restricted keyways? ›

What is a Restricted Keyway Lock? A restricted keyway lock is designed to prevent unauthorized duplication of keys. Most of these locks utilize a key that is controlled by one specific locksmith and also requires you to be on a signature card in order to have keys copied.

Can composite keys be duplicated? ›

A composite Key cannot contain duplicates. We can have duplicate values in an individual column, but they must be unique across the columns. Null values are not allowed in any columns in the composite primary key.

Why does my copied key not work? ›

The most common problem by far is that a key is copied by somebody who hasn't cleaned their machine or hasn't calibrated the machine in years or both.

Can primary key be duplicated? ›

You can define keys which allow duplicate values. However, do not allow duplicates on primary keys as the value of a record's primary key must be unique. When you use duplicate keys, be aware that there is a limit on the number of times you can specify the same value for an individual key.

Can you copy a master lock key? ›

A: Master Lock does not provide keys directly to consumers; however, you may take one of your keys to a local hardware store, home center or locksmith where they can cut duplicate keys.

Can flat keys be duplicated? ›

The legality of duplicating apartment keys

The only caveat to this is if the key design itself has patent protection. In this case, authorization is necessary for duplication. Most often, the do not copy request printed on a key does nothing but offer the tenant a false sense of security.

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