Very few things make me panic more than losing my keys. It’s always a good idea to have back up keys in case you misplace the original. You are can make copies at many stores you frequent. Then there are places you think would offer key duplication services but don’t.
Let’s dive right in. Here are the places where you can make copies of your keys.
Home improvement stores
Most home improvement stores offer key duplication services. You will most likely find a self-serve kiosk at these stores. Though these stores no longer employ key specialists, if you ask, someone will help you at the self-serve kiosk.
You put in the original key, and you will get your copy in a couple of minutes. Cost varies but it usually costs a few dollars.
Home improvement stores that key duplication services
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Ace Hardware
- Menard’s
- True Value Hardware
- Sears (if they still exist in your area)
Grocery stores
Many grocery stores also offer key duplication services. That is good news because you don’t have to make a separate trip to get copies of your keys. You can do that on your next grocery trip.
- Walmart
- Safeway
- Kroger
- H-E-B
- Meijer
- Vons
Automotive Stores
Automotive parts stores also make copies of keys. Though most auto parts stores do, Autozone does offer key duplication services.
Here is a list of stores where you can get copies made.
- PepBoys
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- Advance Auto Parts
- NAPA Auto Parts
Automotive stores are a good choice to get your car keys made. You will find the cost to be much cheaper compared to a dealership.
Other Options
Locksmiths
You can hire a locksmith to make copies of your keys. Locksmith services are expensive and best used if you need specialized help. In most cases, it will be cheaper to get copies made at home improvement stores, grocery stores, or automotive stores.
KeyMe App
If you can wait a few days to get your keys, you can use the KeyMe app. Simply download the app, take a picture of your keys and you will get the keys in a few days.
It is not as complicated as you think. I have had good results using this app.
KeyMe also has kiosks that are available inside several stores.
Places That Don’t Offer Key Duplication Services
Many popular stores don’t offer key duplication services. Here are a few places where you cannot get copies made.
- Auto-Zone
- CVS
- Magic Mart
- Sam’s Club
- Costco
- Target
Type of Keys
As you know, not all keys are the same. At a minimum, there are the following types of keys.
- House keys (office keys, mailbox keys)
- Auto keys (key fobs for your car or van)
- Do not duplicate keys
- High-performance keys
How much does it cost to make a copy of a key?
It depends on the type of key and the type of service. Simple house or office keys are cheaper and cost $1.5 to $3 per key. Self-kiosks are cheaper than places that have a key specialist. Locksmith is likely to be the most expensive option.
If you need copies of auto keys or high-performance keys, they are more expensive than simple house keys.
How to make copies of “Do not duplicate keys”?
Do not duplicate keys that are used by apartment buildings and offices. Apartments and offices do not want the keys duplicated because the keys offer entry to restricted or sensitive areas. But there are a few ways to make copies of these keys.
You typically need to provide proof of ownership before you can make copies. You can also hire the locksmith who put the original locks in place because they are likely to have a record of who the owner is.
In some cases, you can tell the store making copies that you are the owner. That might work sometimes, but don’t be surprised if they insist on proof of ownership.
Bottom Line
When you need additional keys, it’s always good to know where you can get copies made. You don’t have to travel far from your house since so many home improvement, grocery, and auto parts stores offer key duplication services. If you need specialized services, you can call a locksmith. If you can wait to get your keys and are tech-savvy, you can use the KeyMe App.
