Types of Keys and Duplication Methods
Not all keys are created equal, and duplication methods vary significantly: Standard brass keys — duplicated on a mechanical key cutting machine in 2-3 minutes. Available at hardware stores and locksmiths. High-security keys (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) — require authorization cards and can only be duplicated at authorized dealers, providing key control. Transponder car keys — require both physical cutting AND electronic programming. Must be done by a locksmith or dealer. Do Not Duplicate (DND) keys — these have a "Do Not Duplicate" stamp, but this is NOT legally enforceable. Any locksmith CAN duplicate them. For real key control, use restricted keyway systems. Dimple keys and tubular keys — require specialized cutting machines not available at hardware stores. A professional locksmith has the equipment to duplicate these precisely.
Key Duplication vs Restricted Key Systems
If you need to control who can copy your keys (landlords, businesses, property managers), standard "Do Not Duplicate" stamps are meaningless. Instead, use a restricted keyway system — Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, or Schlage Primus. These systems use patented key profiles that physically cannot be cut on standard machines. Duplication requires an authorization card and can only be done at authorized dealers. This is the only reliable way to prevent unauthorized key copies. In DFW, we set up restricted key systems for $150-300 initial setup plus $15-25 per restricted key.
Key Duplication FAQ
How much does key duplication cost?
Standard brass keys: $2-5 each. High-security restricted keys: $15-25 each. Transponder car keys: $65-150 each (includes programming). Smart car keys: $150-350 each.
Can you duplicate a key from a broken key?
If both pieces of the broken key are available, we can usually duplicate from the original profile. If pieces are missing, we may need to decode the lock to create a new key.
Key Duplication Pricing in Dallas-Fort Worth
Here's a complete price breakdown for key duplication at MyKey in Dallas-Fort Worth: Standard house/office keys (standard brass or nickel, non-restricted): $8-15 per key. High-security restricted keys (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, ASSA Abloy) requiring authorization card: $35-75 per key, authorization card required. Transponder car keys (cut + programmed): $65-145 depending on vehicle make and year. Smart keys and proximity fobs (cut + programmed): $150-275. Key fob battery replacement only: $12-20. Padlock keys (standard): $8-15. Post office box keys (standard): $8-15. Duplicate car key without original (decoded from lock): add $25-50 to the programming price. Mobile service (we come to you): no additional charge for standard service areas across DFW. Same-day duplication is available for all key types — call (214) 888-8755 for availability at your location. We're typically faster and less expensive than going to a dealership for car keys, and we come to you rather than requiring you to tow a non-starting vehicle.
How Many Spare Keys Should You Have?
The general rule: always have at least one spare for each regularly used key, and know exactly where that spare is. For homes: two spare house keys — one with a trusted family member or neighbor, one in a secure location at home (not under the mat). If you have a smart lock, consider whether you need physical spares at all, since smart locks provide access without keys. For cars: one spare programmed key stored at home, not in the vehicle. Dealerships charge $200-400 for replacement transponder keys; making a spare now costs $65-145 and prevents that emergency expense. For businesses: two spare commercial keys per door kept by authorized managers — not all staff. Restricted key systems (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) also require storing the authorization card in a secure location. For padlocks and storage units: one spare per lock, since padlock replacement is usually less expensive than emergency opening, but having a spare eliminates the urgency. MyKey offers a spare key program for DFW businesses — we maintain a key profile on file (with your authorization) so replacement keys can be cut quickly without the original present.
Frequently Asked Questions — Key Duplication Dallas
Q: Can a "Do Not Duplicate" key actually be duplicated?
A: "Do Not Duplicate" stamped on a key is a policy instruction to key-cutting services, not a physical restriction. Any standard key blank can technically be duplicated regardless of the stamp. True key control requires restricted keyway systems (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Schlage Everest) where blank key stock is protected and only authorized dealers can cut copies — and only with an authorization card. If key control matters to your DFW property, invest in a restricted keyway system rather than relying on the stamp.
Q: Can MyKey duplicate a car key without going to the dealership?
A: For the vast majority of vehicles on DFW roads, yes. We duplicate and program transponder keys, smart keys, and proximity fobs for all major brands: Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and more. The exceptions are a small number of very new models with proprietary systems that temporarily require dealer-only programming. Call (214) 888-8755 and give us your year, make, and model — we'll confirm availability before you come to us or we come to you.
Q: Is mobile key duplication more expensive than going to a locksmith shop?
A: At MyKey, mobile service costs the same as in-shop service across standard DFW service areas. We eliminated the mobile surcharge because the majority of our business is mobile — our trucks are fully equipped key-cutting shops. For outer DFW areas more than 35 miles from our base, there may be a small travel charge; we'll confirm this when you call.
Q: My apartment complex charges $50 for a spare key — is that normal?
A: It's common for Dallas apartment management to charge $25-75 for spare keys, particularly for restricted keyway systems where they control the blank stock. If the complex uses standard hardware (non-restricted Schlage or Kwikset), you can sometimes have a duplicate made at a hardware store for $5-10 — but check your lease first, as some prohibit tenant-made duplicates. For USPS cluster mailbox keys and electronic fobs, the complex typically controls duplication and the fee is unavoidable.