Where to get a car key copied and what to expect
You can get a car key copied at a hardware store, a locksmith, a car dealership, or an automotive parts retailer. The route you choose depends on your key type, how quickly you need it, and how much you want to spend. A standard metal key costs $2 to $10 at most places. A key with a chip or remote function costs $50 to $200 or more, depending on your car's make and model.
The fastest option is usually a hardware store or parts retailer if you have a straightforward metal key. If your key has electronic components — a fob, a chip, or a push-button start — a locksmith or dealership is more likely to have the equipment to program it correctly. Dealerships are the most expensive but can handle any key your car uses. Locksmiths are often cheaper and faster than dealerships but vary widely in what they can do.
Key Takeaways
- Hardware stores and parts retailers can copy basic metal keys for $2 to $10 in minutes, but cannot program electronic keys.
- Locksmiths can copy most key types and program electronic keys for $50 to $150, and often come to your location.
- Car dealerships can copy any key your vehicle uses but charge $100 to $300 and require proof of ownership.
- Bring your car's VIN (on the dashboard or registration) and proof of ownership to a dealership; a locksmith usually needs only the car's make, model, and year.
- Electronic keys take longer to copy than metal keys because they must be programmed to your specific vehicle.
How to identify what type of key you have
Look at your key. If it is a flat piece of metal with no buttons or electronics, it is a standard key and can be copied anywhere. If it has a plastic head with buttons on it, it is a key fob or remote key. If the key itself has a small black or silver chip visible on the blade, it is a transponder key.
Your car's manual or a quick search for your car's year, make, and model online will tell you what type of key your vehicle uses. You can also call your dealership's service department and give them your VIN — they will tell you when ready what kind of key your car needs and what it costs to copy.
Getting a key copied at a hardware store or parts retailer
Bring your original key to a hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe's, or an automotive parts store like AutoZone or O'Reilly. Tell the staff member you need a key copy. They will place your key in a machine, insert a blank key, and the machine will cut a matching copy. The whole process takes 5 to 10 minutes.
This works only for standard metal keys with no electronics. If your key has a fob, buttons, or a chip, the machine cannot copy it — the staff will tell you this when you bring it in. Cost is typically $2 to $10 per copy. You can usually get multiple copies at once for a small additional charge per key.
Getting an electronic key copied by a locksmith
A locksmith can copy most key types, including fobs and transponder keys. Call a local locksmith, describe your car's year, make, and model, and ask if they can copy your key type. Many locksmiths will come to your home or workplace. Bring your original key and your car (the locksmith needs to program the new key to your vehicle).
The locksmith will cut the key blade and then program it using a device that communicates with your car's computer. This takes 30 minutes to an hour. Cost ranges from $50 to $150 depending on your key type and your location. Some locksmiths charge a service call fee if they come to you, but this is often waived if you use their key copy service.
Getting a key copied at a car dealership
Call your car's dealership service department with your VIN (found on your dashboard, registration, or insurance card). Tell them you need a key copy. They will quote you a price and ask you to bring your car and proof of ownership — your registration or title.
Dealerships can copy any key your car uses, including the most complex electronic keys. They have access to your car's exact specifications and can program keys that other locksmiths cannot. The trade-off is cost and time: expect to pay $100 to $300 and wait several days to a week. Some dealerships can do it the same day if you wait, but this is not may provide.
What to bring and what to expect at each location
| Location | What to bring | Time needed | Cost range | Key types handled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware store or parts retailer | Original key | 5–10 minutes | $2–$10 | Standard metal keys only |
| Locksmith | Original key, car present | 30 minutes to 1 hour | $50–$150 | Most types, including fobs and chips |
| Car dealership | Original key, car, proof of ownership | Same day to 1 week | $100–$300 | All types for your vehicle |
Tips for getting the best price and service
Call ahead before you go anywhere. Tell them your car's year, make, model, and what type of key you have. Ask for a price quote over the phone. Prices vary by location and by business, so calling three places takes 10 minutes and can save you $50 or more.
If you are using a locksmith, check online reviews and confirm they are licensed in your state. Ask whether they charge a service call fee and whether it is waived if you use their service. If you are going to a dealership, ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in, and whether they need your car present or can copy the key from your VIN alone (some can, some cannot).
If you have a newer car with a push-button start or a keyless entry system, confirm that the place you choose can handle it before you go. Not all locksmiths have the equipment for the newest key systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I copy my car key without the original?
A locksmith or dealership can sometimes make a key from your VIN alone, but this is more expensive and takes longer because they must order the blank and program it without a template. Bring your original key if you have it. If your original is lost, tell the locksmith or dealership when ready — they will advise you on the best path forward.
Do I need to bring my car to get a key copied?
For a standard metal key, no. For any key with electronics — a fob, a chip, or a push-button start — yes, the key must be programmed to your specific vehicle. A locksmith or dealership needs your car present to complete the programming.
How long does it take to copy an electronic key?
A locksmith typically needs 30 minutes to an hour. A dealership may do it the same day if you wait, or may schedule you for another day. Hardware stores cannot copy electronic keys at all. Call ahead to confirm timing before you go.
What if I lost my only key?
Call a locksmith or your dealership when ready. You will need proof of ownership (registration or title). A locksmith can usually make a new key from your VIN within a few hours. A dealership may take longer but can handle any key type. This is more expensive than copying an existing key because the locksmith or dealership must create a key without a template.
Can I copy a key myself at home?
No. Key copying requires specialized machines that cut the blade to exact specifications, and electronic keys require programming equipment that communicates with your car's computer. Attempting to copy a key at home will not work and may damage your key or car.