How to Get a Key for A Door Lock | 11 DIY Steps with Images

Disclaimer

Articles, products, and services offered on this site are for informational purposes only. We are part of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. Amazon.com is compensated for sales resulting from links on our website.

Please review our disclaimer before acting based on anything you read or see.

Do you need a key to open a door lock but need to know how to get it? 

Getting a key can be intimidating if you want to open a lock on a new property or need a spare key for your existing lock. 

Fortunately, there are a few different ways to get a key for your door lock, and it doesn’t have to be difficult:

  • Identify the Door Lock
  • Identify the type of lock
  • Contact the lock manufacturer
  • Request a key
  • Obtaining a key code
  • Getting a key made
  • Replacing the lock
  • Purchasing a new lock
  • Receive the new key from the locksmith.
  • Test the new key and install it.
  • Contact a locksmith if necessary. 

Let’s explain how you can easily get the key you need for your door. We will cover everything from the basic steps to the specific types of keys you’ll need for different locks. 

By the end of this blog post, you’ll have the knowledge and resources needed to get the right key for your door lock.

Read More: How To Replace A Front Door Lock With A Keyed Deadbolt

How To Get a Key for A Door Lock

1. Identify the Door Lock 

To get a key for a door lock, it is important to identify it. 

Take a look at the door lock to determine the type and size of the lock. 

Identify the Door Lock 

If the lock is a standard cylinder lock, it will have two screws on either side of the door.

The keyhole will locate in the center. If the lock is mortise, it will have an additional deadbolt, and the keyhole will locate below the handle. 

Additionally, note the lock’s manufacturer, as this will need to get the proper key for the door lock.

2. Identify the type of lock

Before getting a key for a door lock, you need to identify the type of lock. There are several types of locks, including key, combination, and electronic. 

Identify the type of lock

Keyed locks require a physical key to open the door. Combination locks also require a physical key and a combination of numbers to unlock the door. 

Electronic locks use a keypad or card to open the door. 

Knowing the type of lock will help you determine what type of key you need for your door lock.

Read More: How To Pick A Door Lock With A Paperclip

3. Contact the lock manufacturer

The third option to obtain a key for a door lock is to contact the lock manufacturer. If you know the make and model of the lock, you can reach out to the manufacturer and request a key. 

You may need to provide proof of ownership, so have any paperwork or documents related to the purchase of the lock on hand. 

If you can provide all the information the manufacturer needs, they should be able to provide you with a key. 

This option may be the most time-consuming and expensive of the three options, but it guarantees you the correct key for your door lock.

4. Request a key

After determining the key type you need, you can request one from the appropriate organization. Depending on the type of lock, you may need to contact a locksmith, dealership, landlord, or property management company. 

Request a key

You may need proof of ownership or residency to get a key. Be sure to have any relevant information ready before making the request.

5. Obtaining a key code

A key code is necessary to get a key for a door lock. This code is unique to each door lock and uses a locksmith or other key-cutting service to create a key that will match the lock. 

The key code usually stamps on the lock itself, but it can also be found on the paperwork that came with it in some cases. 

Obtaining a key code

If you are still looking for the key code, it may be necessary to contact the manufacturer or a locksmith for assistance in obtaining the key code.

6. Getting a key made

The best option for getting a key for a door lock is to get it made by a professional locksmith. It ensures that the key fits the lock perfectly and can be used without any problems. 

Getting a key made

When getting a key made, ensure to provide the locksmith with the exact details of the lock, including the manufacturer and model number. 

The locksmith should also be able to provide you with a copy of the key or a record of the key code so that you have a spare key in the future.

7. Replacing the lock

If the lock is old and worn, producing a key may be difficult. If this is the case, it does recommend replacing the lock entirely. 

Replacing the lock

Using a locksmith is the most secure way to do this, as they are trained in the installation and can select a key suited for the door. 

I am getting a reputable locksmith who will install a lock-up to safety standards, and at least one spare key is important.

8. Purchasing a new lock

If you have lost the key to your door lock, consider purchasing a new lock. It is especially true if you do not have access to the lock manufacturer or the key has been cut incorrectly. 

If you purchase a new lock, take the measurements of the door and the lock to ensure that the new lock will fit. 

Purchasing a new lock

Additionally, you may need to purchase a key blank to get a key for your new lock.

9. Receive the new key from the locksmith. 

Once you have decided on a new key for your door lock, you must contact a locksmith and arrange to have the key cut. Be sure to provide the exact measurements and specifications of the lock to ensure the new key fits properly. 

Receive the new key from the locksmith. 

After you have completed the order, the locksmith will cut the new key and deliver it to you. Be sure to keep the key in a secure place and keep it away from children.

Test and install the new key to get a key for a door lock.

After obtaining the new key, test it to ensure it opens and locks the door correctly. If the key works, you can proceed to installation. 

Please insert the new key into the door lock and turn it clockwise to install it. It will force the cylinder pins to align, allowing you to turn the key counter-clockwise and open the door

Test and install the new key to get a key for a door lock.

Once the key is in place, turn it back clockwise to ensure the door is securely locked. Congratulations! You have successfully installed a new key for your door lock.

11. Contact a locksmith if necessary

If a key for a door lock is required, it is important to contact a reputable locksmith. Locksmiths have the tools and expertise to quickly and efficiently create keys for different locks. 

They can also advise on the best security measures to ensure the door is not compromised. 

Contact a locksmith if necessary

Generally, locksmiths will be able to cut a key to fit the existing lock, and they may also be able to provide additional security options, such as keypads and deadbolts. 

It is also important to ensure that the locksmith is experienced in dealing with the particular type of lock, as some may require specialized tools and expertise. 

Taking the time to contact a qualified locksmith can save time and money in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a key cut for a lock without a key?

If you have lost your key, a locksmith can make you a resolution without the original key; a locksmith is an expert in hand-making keys. Using his skill, blank, and a file, he can create a new key from scratch without having the original key.

How much does it cost to make a key from a lock?

The average price to make a key from a lock is $156, with a typical range of around $97 to $215. The minimum trip charges range from $50 to $100. 

Can you get a key made for a lock?

In most cases, a locksmith can make a key from a lock, even when you don’t have the original and a copy of the key.

Personal Opinion

Getting the right key for a door lock is a simple task. With the right tools and information, you can easily obtain the key for your lock and get it working again. 

Whether you use a locksmith or online key provider or follow the DIY steps, you can get the key for your door lock quickly and easily.

In conclusion, getting a key for a door lock is a simple task. 

With a few simple tools and some basic knowledge, you should be able to get a key for a door lock quickly and easily. 

Of course, if you are still having difficulties, it is always best to call a locksmith who can provide you with a professional service. 

With the right steps, getting a key for a door lock will be a breeze.

Comments are closed.