The fastest places to copy a key in your area
Hardware stores, locksmiths, and big-box retailers all copy keys on-site, usually while you wait. A hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe's typically charges $2 to $5 per key and has machines in the store. Local locksmiths charge more — often $5 to $15 per key — but can handle unusual or damaged keys that machines reject. Walmart and Target also offer key copying at customer service desks for $2 to $3, though availability varies by location.
The choice depends on what kind of key you need copied, how quickly you need it, and whether your key is standard or unusual. A standard house key or padlock key works at almost any location. Restricted keys — those with a brand name stamped on them or a special shape — may only be copied by authorized dealers or a locksmith who has the right blanks in stock.
Key Takeaways
- Hardware stores and big-box retailers copy standard keys for $2 to $5 and usually finish while you wait.
- Local locksmiths charge $5 to $15 per key but can copy restricted keys and damaged originals that machines cannot handle.
- Restricted keys — those stamped with a brand name or security marking — can only be copied by authorized dealers or a locksmith with the correct blanks.
- Call ahead if your key looks unusual or damaged, because not all locations have the blanks or equipment to copy it.
Hardware stores and home improvement retailers
Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware all operate key-copying machines in-store. You walk to the key section, place your original key in the machine, insert a blank, and the machine traces and cuts it. The whole process takes 2 to 5 minutes. Cost is typically $2 to $5 per key, and you pay at the machine or at checkout.
These locations work best for standard keys: house keys, apartment keys, padlock keys, and car keys that are not transponder-equipped. The machines are designed for common key blanks, which the store stocks. If your key is bent, worn, or has an unusual shape, the machine may not read it correctly, and staff may turn you away or suggest you visit a locksmith instead.
Availability varies by store and by time of day. Some locations have the machine staffed during business hours; others leave it unmanned. Call your nearest store before you go to confirm the service is available that day.
Big-box retailers and supermarkets
Walmart and Target both offer key copying through their customer service desks. Walmart typically charges $2 to $3 per key and can usually copy standard house and padlock keys. Target's pricing and availability are less consistent across locations — some stores offer the service, others do not. Both retailers usually complete the copy while you wait, though during busy hours you may wait 10 to 15 minutes.
These retailers do not have self-service machines; an employee operates the equipment. That means they can sometimes handle keys that a hardware store machine would reject, but it also means they may decline if the key looks damaged or if they lack the right blank. Call ahead to confirm your specific store offers key copying and ask whether they can handle your particular key type.
Local locksmiths
A locksmith is the right choice when a hardware store or retailer cannot help. Locksmiths stock a wider range of key blanks, including restricted keys, security keys, and unusual profiles. They can also copy keys that are bent, worn, or partially damaged, because they work by hand rather than relying on a machine to read the original.
Cost is higher — typically $5 to $15 per key, depending on the key type and your location. A straightforward house key might be $5 to $8; a restricted key or a key that requires special equipment could be $10 to $20 or more. Locksmiths usually complete the work while you wait, though some may need 15 to 30 minutes if the key is complex.
To find a locksmith near you, search "locksmith near me" or "24-hour locksmith" in your area. Read reviews on Google Maps or Yelp before you call. Ask about pricing over the phone and whether they can copy your specific key type — some locksmiths specialize in residential keys, others in automotive, and some in both.
Restricted keys and when you cannot copy them
A restricted key is one that the manufacturer has marked as copyable only by authorized dealers or locksmiths. Common examples include Medeco, Schlage Primus, and ASSA ABLOY keys. These keys have a brand name stamped on them and often a unique shape or pattern. The restriction exists to prevent unauthorized copies and to keep security high.
If you own a restricted key and need a copy, you have two options. First, contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer — Medeco keys, for example, can be copied through Medeco dealers or a locksmith who holds a Medeco license. Second, hire a locksmith who stocks the restricted blank and is authorized to copy it. Not all locksmiths are authorized for all brands, so call ahead and ask.
If you have lost the original key and do not have proof of ownership, the manufacturer or dealer may refuse to copy it. Bring documentation — a receipt, a warranty card, or proof that you own the lock — to speed up the process.
Damaged or worn keys
A key that is bent, cracked, or worn smooth cannot be copied by a machine because the machine cannot read it accurately. A hardware store or big-box retailer will likely turn you away. A locksmith, however, can often work around the damage by examining the key closely, measuring it, and cutting a new one by hand or by using a different method.
If your key is damaged, take it to a locksmith and explain what happened. They will tell you whether they can copy it and what it will cost. In some cases, if the damage is severe, the locksmith may ask you to prove ownership of the lock before proceeding — this protects against someone trying to copy a key they do not have the right to use.
Transponder and smart keys
Car keys with a transponder chip (a small electronic component inside the key head) cannot be copied at a hardware store or by most locksmiths. These keys require programming to work with your car's ignition system. Only a car dealership, a locksmith who specializes in automotive work and owns programming equipment, or a mobile locksmith can copy and program a transponder key.
Cost for a transponder key copy is much higher — typically $100 to $300 or more, depending on the car make and model. Call your car dealership or a local automotive locksmith for a quote. Bring your car keys and proof of ownership or identity.
Smart keys and keyless entry fobs follow the same rule: they must be programmed by a dealership or a specialized locksmith. Do not attempt to copy these at a hardware store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I copy a key without the original?
No. Key copying requires the original key as a template. If you have lost your original, you will need to contact the lock manufacturer, an authorized dealer, or a locksmith who can help you based on the lock itself or proof of ownership. Some locksmiths can create a new key by examining the lock, but this is more expensive and requires proof that you own the lock.
How long does it take to copy a key?
A hardware store machine usually finishes in 2 to 5 minutes. A locksmith may take 15 to 30 minutes if the key is complex or if they are busy. Big-box retailers typically finish while you wait, though busy times may add 10 to 15 minutes. Call ahead if you are in a hurry.
What if the copy does not work in my lock?
Return to where you had it copied and ask them to adjust or remake it. Most retailers and locksmiths will redo the copy for free if it does not work the first time. Bring the original key and the lock (or access to the lock) so they can test the copy and make corrections.
Do I need to bring anything besides the key?
For a standard key copy, you only need the original key. If the key is restricted or if you are copying a key to a lock you do not currently own, bring proof of ownership — a receipt, a warranty card, or a photo of the lock with your name visible. Some locksmiths ask for ID as well.
Is it cheaper to copy a key at a hardware store or a locksmith?
Hardware stores and big-box retailers are cheaper for standard keys — usually $2 to $5. Locksmiths charge $5 to $15 or more. However, if your key is restricted, damaged, or unusual, a locksmith may be your only option, and the higher cost is necessary to get the job done correctly.