What keys can Home Depot not copy?

Home Depot’s key-cutting service can duplicate many common keys, but certain keys are off-limits due to manufacturer restrictions, security features, or safety concerns. In brief, high-security or restricted keys, keys marked “Do Not Duplicate,” and most car keys with embedded chips cannot be copied at most Home Depot locations. Policies can vary by store, so it’s wise to check with your local location before heading in.

Non-copyable key categories at Home Depot

These are the key types that Home Depot typically will not duplicate, either because of licensing, security design, or safety considerations.

• High-security and restricted keys from brands such as Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and certain Assa Abloy products, which require authorized duplication and usually a licensed locksmith or the manufacturer.


• Keys stamped with or labeled as “Do Not Duplicate” or “Do Not Copy,” which indicate restrictions set by the manufacturer or owner.


• Car keys with transponder chips or immobilizers (smart keys) that require programming and coding, typically handled by dealerships or automotive locksmiths.


• Keys for safes, vaults, or specialized security systems that require official authorization or access codes.

If your key falls into one of these categories, the store will likely direct you to the manufacturer, a licensed locksmith, or the property owner for an authorized duplicate.

What Home Depot can copy and how to proceed

For many everyday uses, Home Depot can duplicate standard mechanical house keys. Below is a guide to what you can typically expect, and how to prepare.

• Most standard mechanical keys from common residential brands such as Kwikset, Schlage, Yale, and similar non-high-security lines are usually copyable at the counter.


• Keys without a “Do Not Duplicate” marking and without restricted-key branding are commonly eligible for duplication.


• Some Home Depot locations may offer basic car key duplication for non-transponder keys, but transponder keys and smart keys generally require a dealership or automotive locksmith for programming and duplication.

To maximize your chances of a successful copy, verify with your local store ahead of time, and be prepared with the original key and any identifying information the clerk requests.

What to bring to the store

• The original key you want copied.


• Photo ID if duplicating for a business or official property use.


• Any key code or markings on the key head that might help identify the exact cut.

What to do if the key is not copyable at Home Depot

• Contact the key’s manufacturer or a licensed locksmith for an authorized duplicate.


• For automotive keys, visit a dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith, especially for transponder or remote keys that require programming.


• Ask the property manager or building administrator if they provide authorized duplicates for restricted keys.

In practice, your local store’s policy may vary, so it’s best to call ahead or visit the counter to confirm whether a specific key can be copied.

Summary

Home Depot can typically copy standard mechanical keys from common residential brands, but it cannot copy high-security or restricted keys, keys labeled “Do Not Duplicate,” and most car keys with embedded chips. For these non-copyable keys, you’ll need to go through the manufacturer, a licensed locksmith, or the property owner. Always verify locally before attempting a duplication, and bring the original key and any identification or codes requested by the clerk.

What kind of keys cannot be copied?

Keys that cannot be copied include those with restricted designs, such as high-security or patented keys sold only to authorized locksmiths, and electronically-coded keys like vehicle transponder keys with encrypted chips. Keys for certain government property and, without permission, keys for post office boxes are also restricted.
 
This video explains the difference between "Do Not Duplicate" and restricted keys: 58sSilver Eagle LocksmithYouTube · Jan 13, 2022
Keys with restricted security

• High-security and patented keys: Many commercial and institutional keys are part of a protected system where key blanks are not available to the public and can only be cut by authorized locksmiths, often requiring proof of authorization. 
• Government property keys: Keys marked "US Property" are government-issued and are illegal to copy. 
• Master keys: Keys designed to open multiple locks in a system are controlled by the organization that owns the system and cannot be duplicated without proper authorization. 
• Post office box keys: The US Postal Service requires permission before these keys can be copied. 

Keys with embedded technology 

• Transponder keys: These are common in vehicles and contain a computer chip that transmits an encrypted code to start the engine. The code is specifically programmed for that vehicle, making it impossible to copy with a standard key-cutting machine. 
• VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) keys: These keys have a small resistor embedded in them. The car's computer reads the resistance level; if it doesn't match the correct value, the car will not start. 

Keys that are difficult to copy without authorization

• "Do Not Duplicate" keys: While a simple "do not duplicate" stamp doesn't physically prevent duplication by a standard key machine, many systems use these stamps in conjunction with restricted keyways or other security measures. These keys are often tied to a specific locksmith who will only cut them with proper authorization, such as a signature card. 

You can watch this video to learn about what it means when a key says "Do Not Duplicate": 35sLoc-Doc Security - Charlotte, NCYouTube · Feb 12, 2021

Can you copy a key that says "do not copy

It's legal, as the stamp is merely advisory. Hardware stores like Ace or True Value — certain locations may copy it without any issues. Big box stores such as Lowe's or Home Depot often won't, but it can depend on the staff.

Can you copy any key at Home Depot?

Yes, you can take most keys and get them copied at Home Depot as long as someone there knows how to operate the key machine. The key machine is located in the Hardware section of the store and the keys cost about $1.50 each and it only takes a few minutes.

Why can't my key be copied?

Your key may not be copyable because it's a restricted key, stamped with "do not duplicate" or patented, which requires authorization and specific equipment to copy. Other reasons include wear and tear on the original key, a problem with the new key's cutting, or a machine copying from a worn copy. 
Security and authorization

• Restricted or patented keys: Many high-security keys are protected by patents and can only be duplicated by authorized locksmiths after verification. 
• "Do not duplicate" keys: While sometimes duplicable, these keys are often used for security purposes, and some businesses will refuse to copy them without authorization from the property owner. 

This video explains how to make a duplicate car key using your phone: 41sseejanedrillYouTube · Oct 22, 2022
Technical issues with the key or machine 

• Original key is damaged: If the original key is bent, rusted, or worn, it can prevent a perfect duplicate from being made. 
• Incorrect key blank: The wrong blank was used, or the key's profile is no longer widely supported by common machines. 
• Poorly cut copy: The new key's cuts may be too deep or shallow. This can be due to a worn or uncalibrated machine, or a novice cutter. 
• Copy of a copy: A copy made from a copy of a copy can accumulate flaws over generations, leading to a key that doesn't work. 

What you can do

• Go to a professional locksmith: They have the right equipment and can often adjust a machine to account for wear on an original key. 
• Bring the original key: If your original key is worn, a locksmith may be able to cut a new copy based on it rather than a machine's cutting of a copy. 
• Get authorization if needed: If the key is marked "do not duplicate," contact the property owner or manager for a letter of authorization. 
• Make a copy of a copy of a copy: It's best to make a new copy from the original, not a copy you've made previously.