Need a Key Copy Made Nearby? 21 Places to Get Duplicate Keys Made

Have you ever found yourself frantically searching for a ‘key copy near me’ or wondering where you can ‘get a key made near you’ after a stressful loss of keys? 

You’re not alone. We’ve been there—specifically, when we lost not one, but two auto key fobs for our Toyotas. 

The experience wasn’t just nerve-wracking; it was also unexpectedly expensive. 

In this guide, we’re diving deep into the world of key duplication, sharing over 30 places where you can quickly and affordably get duplicate keys made. 

From home and car keys to those elusive mailbox and locker keys, we’ve researched home stores, grocers, drug stores, self-serve kiosks, and locksmiths to provide you with a comprehensive list of options and prices. 

Whether it’s an emergency or you’re just being proactive, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to replace your keys without breaking the bank. 

Let’s explore how to navigate the often overlooked but crucial task of key duplication, ensuring you’re prepared for those moments when keys seem to grow legs and walk away.”

Types of Keys

Home Keys: Most of the time, when we’re talking about getting key copies, we mean keys that will get you into your home.

Car Keys: Getting car keys duplicated is not as easy. Many of today’s car keys are more costly to copy due to their anti-theft and electronic features. We do have some options for you to save money on getting them made at the end of the article.

But, besides house and car keys there are other kinds that are often duplicated. These include:

• Mailbox keys
• Recreational vehicle keys
• Locker keys
• Keys to open a safe or a bike lock

How Much Does a Key Copy Cost?

Here’s the good news: copying a standard house key is cheap. This might be one of the least expensive home improvement tasks you can do.

Below we have listed 28 different places where you can have copies of keys made.

Most of them charge between $2 and $5 to buy the blank and cut the key.

If you need to get locks in your home rekeyed – read this section.

Typical House Keys costs $2.49 to $5

“Many hardware, auto parts, and home improvement stores offer key copying services. 

For our Airbnb rental rooms in our house, where each bedroom is secured with a keyed lock, we frequently find ourselves needing to replace keys for guests. Home Depot has become our preferred choice for quick and cost-effective key duplication.

Additionally, several grocery and club stores provide this service, as do certain drugstores with key kiosks. 

Wondering, ‘Where can I get keys made near me?’ Explore our curated list of locations, complete with websites and pricing, to find the most convenient option for you.”

There are many options for getting a duplicate key made.

Self Serv Key Kiosks

Navigating the world of key duplication has never been easier thanks to innovative self-serve kiosks. These convenient stations are designed to provide quick and easy solutions for your key copying needs, whether you’re dealing with home, office, or automotive keys. Let’s dive into two leading services in the U.S.: KeyMe and MinuteKey.

1. KeyMe: Your Digital Key Solution

KeyMe isn’t just a key duplication service; it’s a future-proof solution for your key management. By visiting Key.me. you can easily find over 2,000 kiosk locations across the U.S. Just enter your zip code or city, and you’ll see a list of nearby kiosks.

What Sets KeyMe Apart?

• Digital Key Storage: KeyMe offers a unique feature that allows you to store a digital copy of your key. This means if you ever lose your key, a replacement is just a kiosk visit away—no more lockouts or expensive locksmith calls.
• Automotive Keys Made Easy: Whether you have a non-transponder car key or need a fob and transponder key, KeyMe can duplicate them. Prices start at $19.99 for non-transponder keys, with fob and transponder keys ranging from $69.99 to $400.
  • When you call KeyMe for automotive key fob replacement they will connect you with a local locksmith. Interview them carefully as price and quality may vary. We spoke to 3 different locksmiths and found that their prices were very flexible.

2. MinuteKey: Convenience at Your Local Store

MinuteKey kiosks, found in over 1,000 Lowe’s and 1,500 Walmarts and Menards, simplify key duplication. For just $3, you can get a basic brass key copied in minutes. These kiosks are not only user-friendly but also widely accessible.

Why Choose MinuteKey?

• VIP Program: For businesses or individuals frequently needing multiple keys, MinuteKey’s VIP program offers significant discounts. This program is ideal for property managers, landlords, or anyone who manages multiple keys regularly.

Both KeyMe and MinuteKey bring convenience, affordability, and innovation to key duplication. Whether you need a quick copy of your house key or a backup for your car key, these self-serve kiosks provide a modern solution to an age-old problem. Next time you’re in need, remember that a quick, reliable key copy service might just be around the corner at your local shopping center.

Home Improvement Chains and Hardware Stores

Navigating the landscape of key duplication services, especially when it comes to the convenience ofered by home improvement chains and local hardware stores, reveals a mix of capabilities, particularly concerning automotive key fobs.

3. Home Depot

As one of the largest retailers in the United States, Home Depot is a go-to for many when it comes to copying house keys or rekeying locks. With locations based in Atlanta, GA, and across the country, their services are both accessible and affordable.

• Service Range: Home Depot specializes in duplicating house keys and older car keys.
• Cost: Prices typically range between $2 and $5.
• Note: Home Depot does not offer automotive key fob replacements, focusing instead on traditional key duplication.

Several of the Home Depots in our area have two different key duplication options. One is a completely automated kiosk and the other is a key duplication setup where a Home Depot employee makes the keys for you. The automated kiosk has a very limited number of key blanks available.

4. Lowe’s

Lowe’s, known for its wide array of professional services, includes key copying among its offerings. Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s provides a convenient solution for those needing new keys or locks rekeyed.

• Service Range: Specializes in house keys and older car keys.
• Cost: Prices are competitive, ranging from $2 to $5.
• Additional Info: Some Lowe’s locations feature MinuteKey self-serve kiosks. However, like Home Depot, Lowe’s does not provide automotive key fob replacements.

5. Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware stands out for its capability to offer a broader range of key duplication services, including automotive key fob replacements—a service not provided by larger chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s.

• Automotive Key Fob Replacement: Available at select locations, Ace Hardware offers automotive key fob duplication. However, prices tend to be higher compared to direct locksmith services.
• House Key Cost: Duplication costs for house keys or older car keys range between $8 and $12.
• Vehicle Key Fob Caveat: While Ace Hardware can replace key fobs, they do not guarantee functionality if the fob is purchased from third-party sites like eBay and then brought in for programming.

6. True Value and Locally Owned Hardware Stores

• True Value and local hardware stores enrich the community by providing essential services, including key duplication. While their focus remains on traditional keys, it’s always worth checking for specific services like automotive key fob replacements, as offerings can vary by location.

Your local hardware stores: Many towns have these, and it’s always a great idea to support local shops when you can.

A quick Google search for a hardware store near me can help you find one that’s close.

Wrap-Up: Hardware Store Key Duplication Services

When seeking to duplicate keys, especially automotive key fobs, it’s important to note the specific services offered by each retailer. While Home Depot and Lowe’s are excellent for traditional key copying, those in need of automotive key fob replacements might find Ace Hardware a suitable option, albeit potentially at a higher cost and with certain limitations regarding third-party products.

For the most reliable and guaranteed service, consulting a professional locksmith, especially for automotive key needs, might be the best course of action.

Grocery Stores Offering Key Copy Services

Unexpectedly, an increasing number of grocery stores now include key copying services, featuring self-serve kiosks for added convenience. This modern approach to key duplication not only enhances the range of services offered by these stores but also presents a significant advantage: availability outside typical hardware store hours. Whether you find yourself in need of a new set of keys early in the morning or late at night, these grocery chains might have the solution when traditional options are closed.

7. Kroger and Its Family of Stores

Kroger, a leading name in the grocery industry, operates across the midwestern and southern United States. Its extensive network includes a variety of brands such as Bakers, City Market, Dillons, and many others, making key duplication services widely accessible.

KeyMe kiosks located in Kroger stores simplify the process, allowing you to duplicate keys at your convenience, often beyond the operating hours of regular hardware stores.

8. Fred Meyer

A part of the Kroger family since 1999, Fred Meyer has a long history of serving customers in the Pacific Northwest. With locations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska, Fred Meyer stores are equipped with key kiosks, providing a quick and easy solution for your key copying needs, especially when you find yourself in a bind outside normal business hours.

9. Meijer

Meijer, headquartered in Michigan, extends its services across several states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Wisconsin. By offering key duplication kiosks, Meijer stores support customers with a practical and immediate service option, ensuring you’re never left stranded without a spare key, no matter the time of day.

10. Safeway

Since 1915, Safeway has been a trusted name across the western and mid-western United States, with some locations extending to the mid-Atlantic region. While not all Safeway stores have key-making capabilities, those that do offer a convenient alternative for copying keys.

Owned by Albertsons, Safeway’s reach includes other brands like Randalls, Tom Thumb, and Vons, potentially expanding your options for key duplication services during extended hours.

Why Consider Grocery Stores for Key Duplication?

Opting for a grocery store with a key duplication kiosk can be a smart choice for several reasons:

• Convenience: With longer operating hours than traditional hardware stores, grocery stores can meet your key duplication needs almost any time of day.
• Accessibility: Located in neighborhoods and communities across the country, these stores are often easier to access for quick service.
• Efficiency: Self-serve kiosks mean you can duplicate keys in just a few minutes, making it a time-saving solution when you’re in a hurry.

Next time you find yourself needing a new set of keys outside regular business hours, remember that your local grocery store might just have the perfect solution.

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Big Box Club Clubs: Key Duplication Services

Big box club stores are evolving, with some expanding their repertoire to include not just bulk goods but also essential services like key duplication. This move towards more diversified offerings is part of a broader trend to enhance member experience by providing a one-stop solution for a variety of needs, including those unexpected moments when you find yourself needing a spare key.

11. Costco: A Leader in Convenience and Savings

Costco stands out for its innovative approach to key duplication services. With the introduction of Minute Key kiosks and the exclusive Car Keys Express service, Costco offers convenient solutions for both house and car key duplication.

Members benefit from on-site, mobile technicians ready to provide expert car key replacement services, potentially saving up to 50% off dealership prices. T

his initiative underscores Costco’s commitment to delivering value and convenience to its members across the United States.

12. Sam’s Club: Exploring Key Duplication with Car Key Express

Sam’s Club, recognizing the importance of convenient key replacement services, offers the Car Key Express service at a select number of locations.

 It’s important to note that Car Key Express operates independently from Sam’s Club, focusing on providing members with an alternative to traditional dealership-based key replacement. 

While reviews on the quality and timeliness of their service are mixed, as of February 2024, Car Key Express at Sam’s Club locations holds a 4-star rating based on four reviews. 

This feedback highlights the growing need for such services and the value of having options within the club store ecosystem.

BJ’s Wholesale Club: A Different Approach

At the current moment, BJ’s Wholesale Club does not offer key duplication services, including those for car keys. T

his distinguishes BJ’s from its competitors, Costco and Sam’s Club, which have ventured into providing these convenient services to their members. 

The absence of a key duplication service at BJ’s underscores the varied approaches big box club stores are taking to meet the diverse needs of their membership base.

Walmart and Target – Big Box for Key Copy?

In the realm of big box retailers, services such as key duplication can vary significantly, highlighting the diverse strategies of giants like Walmart and Target. Understanding their offerings helps customers navigate where to turn for these everyday needs.

13. Walmart: Your Go-To for Key Duplication

Walmart stands as a beacon for those in need of key copying services, blending convenience with accessibility. Within the vast aisles of most Walmart stores, customers can discover key duplication stations, prominently located in the automotive department. This service is offered in two formats:

• Self-Serve Kiosks: For a quick, efficient key copying experience, Walmart houses MinuteKey kiosks. These user-friendly stations allow customers to duplicate keys at their convenience with just a few simple steps.
  
• Staff-Operated Stations: In addition to the kiosks, some Walmart locations provide staff-operated key duplication services. This option adds a personal touch, with trained employees ready to assist you in getting your keys copied accurately and swiftly.

Walmart’s commitment to offering key duplication services underscores its mission to provide a wide range of convenient services under one roof, making it a reliable stop for customers looking to quickly and easily duplicate their keys.

Target: A Different Focus

Unlike Walmart, Target currently does not offer key duplication services. The retail giant chooses to focus its in-store services on other areas, catering to the diverse needs of its customers through a broad selection of goods and specialized services. 

Target is a go-to destination for a wide range of automotive needs, including kits for creating remote entry for your vehicle. Those looking to duplicate keys will need to explore other retailers, such as Walmart, which continue to support this specific service.

Navigating Retailer Services

When it comes to big-box retailers like Walmart and Target, the availability of services such as key duplication highlights the varied approaches these companies take to meet customer needs. 

Walmart’s provision of both self-serve and staff-assisted key copying options offers a convenient solution for those in need, while Target’s service offerings focus on different areas. Understanding these differences ensures customers know where to go for their specific needs, making shopping trips more efficient and effective.

Auto Parts Stores: Getting Key Duplication Services

Auto parts stores are not just for car parts and accessories; many also offer key duplication services, making them a convenient stop for drivers needing spare keys. While services vary by location, national chains and independent shops alike can be valuable resources for quick key copies, especially for automotive keys. Here’s a rundown of notable auto parts stores offering key duplication services.

14. AutoZone: Nationwide Coverage with a Caution

AutoZone stands as a major player in the auto parts industry, boasting over 6,000 stores across the United States and Brazil. While widely accessible, customers need to verify services by calling ahead, as not all AutoZone locations can make keys.

15. Advance Auto Parts: Quick Key Solutions

With a strong nationwide presence, Advance Auto Parts offers another reliable option for those in need of key duplication. Known for their wide selection of auto parts and accessories, some locations also provide key copying services, adding an extra layer of convenience for their customers.

16. VIP Tires & Service: New England’s Automotive Hub

Predominantly found in New England, VIP Tires and Service combines a comprehensive auto supply store with a full-service shop. Customers in this region can benefit from their key duplication services, alongside a wide array of automotive maintenance and repair services.

17. Pep Boys: A Trusted Name in Key Duplication

Originating from Philadelphia, Pep Boys has expanded its reach across the United States, offering key duplication among its array of services. Known for their commitment to automotive care, Pep Boys provides a trusted option for drivers needing spare keys.

18. NAPA Auto Parts: Expansive Network with Comprehensive Services

Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, NAPA Auto Parts boasts an extensive network of over 6,000 stores nationwide, complemented by 15,000 NAPA AutoCare facilities. This widespread presence ensures that customers have access to vehicle maintenance, repair services, and key duplication, making NAPA a go-to for automotive needs.

19. O’Reilly Auto Parts: Tradition Meets Convenience

With a history dating back to 1957, O’Reilly Auto Parts has grown to over 5,000 locations across the US. Recent acquisitions have broadened their service offerings, which include key-cutting services or self-serve kiosks at select locations. O’Reilly’s commitment to customer service and convenience makes it a reliable choice for automotive key duplication.

Choosing the Right Auto Parts Store for Key Duplication

When seeking out key duplication services, auto parts stores offer a convenient and often overlooked solution. Whether you need a spare car key or a replacement for a lost one, these stores provide a valuable service.

Call ahead to confirm the availability of key duplication services at your local store, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. With a variety of options across the nation, finding a nearby location to get your keys duplicated can be simpler than you think.

Convenience & Drug Stores

While not all drugstores offer key services, some of the more well-known chains do.

20. RiteAid

RiteAid: Located across the United States with more than 4,000 stores. It’s easy to find a RiteAid offering a KeyMe kiosk for quick and easy key copying. Their store locator page allows you to use a filter to find a location with a KeyMe kiosk in it.

Some convenience stores provide key copying services. If you know of others, please email us the city and state and the name of the store.

21. 7-11 Stores

Based in Texas, is there anything 7-11 can’t do? The well-known convenience store is a one-stop shop. They’ve got a little of everything when you’re on the go, and making copies of your keys copying is no exception.

Personal Story: Cost To Replace 2 Lost Toyota Key Fobs

Recently, we faced the daunting task of replacing not one, but two Toyota key fobs for our 2008 Camry and 2012 Sienna—each with its own set of high-tech features and, unfortunately, high replacement costs. 

What seemed like a simple mishap turned into a quest for savings that tested our frugality. Here’s a condensed tale of our journey to replace these essential gadgets without emptying our wallets.

Vehicle Key Copy Huge Price Range

Our research left us scratching our heads – the total replacement costs ranged from $240 to $1170. Here are the details.

Toyota Dealer Cost

Our first stop was calling a Toyota dealer where we were hit with quotes that made our wallets tremble:

• Toyota Sienna key fob: $410
• Toyota Camry key fob: $416.66
• Programming charge for each: $170

The total price of key fob replacement at the dealer was $1170 (plus tax).

Hardware Store Cost

Determined to find a better deal, we explored other options. Ace Hardware emerged as a hero, offering:

• Camry key fob (with programming): $167
• Sienna key fob: $499

While Home Depot and Lowe’s couldn’t help with our specific needs, we continued our search. 

We did a Google search for “locksmith near me” and found Sundial Locksmith to have good ratings.

Local Locksmith Cost

Sundial Locksmith initially quoted us $695, but after some back-and-forth, the price dropped to $599.

The final piece of advice came from our trusted mechanic, who recommended a locksmith promising a deal at $450—though it was unclear if this was for OEM or aftermarket parts.

Locksmiths are VERY Negotiable: While updating this article in February 2024, Steve decided to do a bit more research. He called KeyMe and selected the automotive key option. He was connected to a locksmith in our vicinity and quoted an initial price of $480 for both keys. When Steve declined, a “closer” named Johathan quickly called back and offered to do the job for $240 for both keys. 

Lessons Learned:

• Research and persistence pay off. Always explore multiple options before settling.
• Dealerships might not always be the best bet for cost-effective solutions.
• Local locksmiths and hardware stores can offer competitive prices, sometimes with additional savings.
• Many locksmiths are desperate for work and will negotiate the price if you push back a little.

From this adventure, we’ve learned the importance of shopping around and not taking the first quote as the final word. 

By seeking alternatives and asking questions, we were able to navigate the murky waters of key fob replacement with our frugality intact. This experience serves as a reminder that with a little effort, significant savings are within reach—even for something as specialized as key fob replacements for Toyotas.

Cost to Rekey a Lock

To have the entire lock changed is when the costs go up because the labor of a skilled professional is involved. Changing the locks will generally cost between $50-300. The cost depends on your geographic location, number of locks and the work involved.

Of course, if you’re handy, or know someone who is, you can remove the locks from your own doors. Then just take them to Home Depot to get them rekeyed.

Be sure to bring a key that works the lock also. Home Depot and other home repair stores charge between $5 and $10 to rekey a lock.

Steve from MoneySmartFamily.com recently went to Home Depot to get locks rekeyed for a friend. Home Depot couldn’t do it.

They weren’t able to work on an Orion brand of lock. They can rekey Kwikset, Schlage, Defiant, Baldwin, Yale, Medeco, and a few others. But not Orion.

Rekeying lock prices we found in Phoenix, Arizona.

Hardware Store Prices for Rekeying Locks:

• Home Depot: $5 (per keyhole)
• Lowes: $5 (per keyhole)
• Ace Hardware: $10 (per keyhole)

Locksmith Pricing for a house call to rekey locks

We called 3 locksmiths in our area to get an idea of the cost to rekey locks and provide copies of the keys.

We quoted 4 doors with locks and deadbolts (8 keyholes total)

• $148 TurnkeyLocksmith.com ($40 trip charge and 13.50 per keyhole)
• $175 to $251 Diamondback Lock & Key ($35 trip charge and $17 to 27 per keyhole)
• $195 Acme Locksmith ($59 trip charge and $17 per keyhole) Additional keys $3.99 each.

Why Would You Need Copies of Keys

Having an extra set of keys on hand helps to provide peace of mind in case you get locked out or need help. An extra set of keys is helpful for a change in roommate or tenant as well. Leave a spare set of keys with a neighbor in case you get locked out.

Smart: Protect Yourself from Key Loss Emergencies

Losing keys can be more than just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your day, compromise your security, and incur unnecessary costs. Whether it’s your house keys or car keys, taking proactive steps can significantly mitigate the risks and consequences associated with key loss. 

Here’s how you can safeguard yourself against such emergencies.

For House Keys

1. Use a Key Finder: Invest in a Bluetooth key finder that attaches to your keychain. These devices can be tracked through smartphone apps, making it easier to locate misplaced keys around your home or in nearby locations.

Check out the top-rated BluetoothKeyFinders at:

2. Leave a Spare with a Trusted Neighbor or Family Member: Having someone nearby with a spare key can be a lifesaver, especially in urgent situations. Choose someone you trust implicitly to avoid security risks.

3. Install Smart Locks: Smart locks offer keyless entry options such as codes, fingerprint recognition, or smartphone control. Not only do they provide enhanced security, but they also eliminate the worry of losing physical keys.

4. Key Safe: Consider installing a small, outdoor key safe in a discreet location on your property. Ensure it’s securely mounted and choose a combination that’s difficult for others to guess.

For Car Keys

Keyless Entry and Start Systems: Many modern vehicles come equipped with keyless entry and start systems, requiring only that the key fob be in proximity to operate. While losing the fob can still pose a problem, these systems often come with mobile app capabilities, allowing you to lock, unlock, and start your vehicle remotely.

Duplicate Key: Always have a spare key made and keep it in a safe, accessible place. Some choose to leave their spare with a trusted individual or in a secure location at home.

Use a Key Finder for Key Fobs: Just like house keys, attaching a Bluetooth key finder to your car key fob can save time and frustration. If you misplace your fob, the app will help you track it down quickly.

Insurance and Roadside Assistance: Some insurance policies and roadside assistance programs offer key replacement services. Check your policy or membership details to understand what’s covered and consider upgrading if necessary.

Routine Habits: Develop a routine for storing your keys. Whether it’s a designated spot in your home or a specific compartment in your bag, consistency can prevent loss.

Waterproof and Shockproof Cases: For those prone to outdoor activities or harsh environments, protecting your key fob with a durable case can prevent damage and loss.

General Tips

• Digital Backups: For smart locks or digital keys, ensure you have backup access methods. This could mean memorizing a code or having an app installed on multiple devices.
• Maintenance: Regularly check the battery life of your electronic keys and key finders to ensure they’re always operational when you need them.
• Awareness: Be mindful of where you place your keys, especially in public or unfamiliar places. Avoid leaving them out in the open or in easily accessible areas.

By adopting these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk and stress associated with losing your keys. Not only will these tips save you time and money, but they will also enhance your overall security and peace of mind.

Why Do Some Keys Say “Do Not Duplicate”?

According to Great Valley Locks, some keys are restricted and can only be duplicated by their maker. This was meant to increase security.

But over time, those words stamped on a key have come to mean less and less. Regardless, it is illegal to duplicate keys marked “do not duplicate.”

Get a Key Made Near Me Wrap-Up

We recommend taking a few minutes to explore some options near you. Use this search, Keys Made Near Me, and choose the nearest location.

Our recommendation is:

• Simple House Key: Go to a local hardware store and use a KeyMe self-serve kiosk
• Specialty Key: Go to a local hardware store and use a KeyMe self-serve kiosk
• Car Key: Check out KeylessRide.com or call a locksmith.

No doubt there are multiple, cheap and convenient options very close to where you live. Honestly, prices are pretty consistent for basic keys, so pick the location closest to you and get your key made.

If you have any favorites not on this list, please share!

And, if you are looking for more ways to save money on home repairs, check out these helpful home hacks.

Money-Saving Tip: Quoting your auto insurance every 2 or 3 years can really save you some cash. We like using the website Gabi – it takes a few minutes to enter your info and upload your policy, but they’ll give you quotes from multiple insurance companies. It’s super easy and saves you time and money.