Does Home Depot Make Keys In 2024? The Complete Guide

As a home improvement expert with over 10 years of experience, I often get asked if Home Depot provides key making services. With convenient locations across the country, it can be a lifesaver when you‘re locked out or need to make copies.

In this complete guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting keys made at Home Depot in 2024.

A Quick Overview of Home Depot‘s Key Services

Home Depot offers key duplication services at over 2,200 store locations in the US, Canada, and Mexico. This includes:

• MinuteKey self-service kiosks – Make copies of your existing keys in just minutes
• In-store key cutting – Trained locksmiths cut keys using professional machines
• Rekeying services – Re-pin existing locks to work with new keys
• Car key replacement – For older, non-transponder metal car keys

As you can see, they provide a fairly wide range of key services. However, some limitations exist when it comes to more complex automotive keys.

Now, let‘s take a deeper look at exactly how Home Depot‘s key copying process works.

Getting Keys Copied at Home Depot‘s MinuteKey Kiosks

Many Home Depot stores have a MinuteKey self-service kiosk that allows you to duplicate keys on your own in just minutes.

Over 1,500 locations have these kiosks available. Here‘s a quick 3-step overview of how to use them:

1. Insert your existing key into the kiosk
2. The machine scans and analyzes the key‘s cut pattern
3. You enter payment and the kiosk cuts a duplicate key

The whole process takes around 1-2 minutes. It‘s perfect when you‘re in a rush and need a quick spare.

I particularly like MinuteKey for copying simpler keys like:

• House keys
• Padlocks
• Mailbox keys
• Filing cabinet keys

The kiosks can copy most common home and office key types. However, some limitations exist:

• No high-security keys – MinuteKey won‘t copy keys marked "Do Not Duplicate"
• Not for worn keys – The scanning won‘t work on damaged/worn key heads
• No guarantees – The automated duplication isn‘t perfect

For worn, damaged, or high-security keys, you‘re better off using Home Depot‘s in-store key cutting services.

Professional Key Cutting at Home Depot Locksmiths

Home Depot stores without a MinuteKey kiosk have an on-site locksmith who can cut keys using professional-grade key cutting machines.

This is preferable for more complex key cutting jobs, like:

• Worn/damaged keys
• Keys with "Do Not Duplicate" markings
• High-security keys
• Transponder car keys (see details below)

Home Depot‘s locksmiths are well-trained and can accurately cut even difficult, worn down keys. The precision of the machines ensures each copy is cut to exact specifications.

You‘re also guaranteed an exact duplicate key, unlike MinuteKey kiosks which sometimes have inaccuracies.

The process is simple:

1. Take your key to the locksmith counter
2. They analyze your key and select the appropriate blank
3. The locksmith cuts the blank to match your existing key
4. Test that the duplicated key works properly

Cutting usually takes 5-10 minutes depending on store traffic. Simple keys can sometimes be done while you wait.

What Types of Keys Can Be Copied at Home Depot?

Home Depot‘s key services can accommodate most common home, office, and vehicle keys including:

Home/Office Keys:

• Front door locks
• Deadbolts
• Padlocks
• Filing cabinets
• Mailboxes
• Garage door openers

Vehicle Keys:

• Non-transponder car keys
• Door/trunk keys
• Glove compartment keys
• Motorcycle keys

However, there are some key types they can‘t copy due to restrictions:

• Post office box keys (regulated by USPS)
• "Do Not Duplicate" marked keys
• High-security keys (e.g. Medeco)

And as mentioned, you‘ll need a dealership or auto locksmith for modern transponder car keys.

Here‘s a quick table summarizing what Home Depot can and can‘t copy:

So in summary, they can duplicate most common home and office keys, along with basic vehicle keys. Specialty or high-security keys will need a locksmith shop.

Does Home Depot Copy Transponder Car Keys?

Due to the programming involved, Home Depot locksmiths are not able to duplicate modern transponder automotive keys.

Transponder keys have an embedded chip that provides additional security. It means the key has to be electronically programmed to match the car computer, not just cut to the correct shape.

However, Home Depot may be able to copy simple metal keys for older vehicles, typically 1990s models and earlier. Their machines can accurately cut basic vehicle door and trunk keys.

For any key with "Has Chip" stamped on it, you‘ll have to go to the dealership or an auto locksmith to have a duplicate made. Programming equipment is required, which Home Depot doesn‘t have.

How Much Does Key Copying Cost at Home Depot?

Home Depot offers very reasonable rates for key duplication services. Here‘s a quick breakdown:

MinuteKey Kiosks:

• First key: $2
• Additional keys: $1.50 each
• Key blanks: $1.25 – $5

In-Store Key Cutting:

• Typical cost per key: $2
• Key blanks: $1.25 – $5

They offer bulk discounts for larg orders, usually 20% off 5+ keys.

The in-store locksmiths don‘t charge extra service fees to cut keys. You just pay for the cost of the key blanks themselves.

This makes them very budget friendly compared to standalone locksmiths who often charge $5-$10 per key.

Getting Locks Rekeyed at Home Depot

In addition to key cutting, Home Depot also provides professional lock rekeying services.

Getting your locks rekeyed changes the internal pins so existing keys no longer work. It lets you easily replace lost keys or enhances security after moving into a new home.

Pricing varies based on factors like:

• Number of locks
• Lock types (deadbolt, knob, etc)
• Profile type of the keyway

But in general, expect around $5 per lock for a basic rekey job. More complex master key systems will be higher.

The process takes about 15-30 minutes per lock. Home Depot locksmiths have all the necessary tools to re-pin locks and get them working with your new key.

Compared to calling a locksmith, Home Depot‘s rekey pricing is very affordable and convenient. I highly recommend them for this service.

When Should You Use Home Depot vs. a Locksmith?

Home Depot covers a wide variety of basic key services at affordable rates. But locksmiths are still preferable for:

• Transponder "chip" keys
• High-security key systems
• Antique/vintage lock repairs
• Emergency unlocking services

I generally suggest Home Depot for routine tasks like:

• Spare copies of house keys
• Lost mailbox keys
• Rekeying standard locks
• Keys for older basic car locks

But for specialty keys or emergency lockout service, a dedicated locksmith will have more advanced equipment and expertise.

Conclusion: Home Depot Is Your One-Stop Key Shop

As you can see, Home Depot offers a full range of professional key duplication and locksmith services at over 2,200 convenient locations.

Their trained locksmiths and state-of-the-art key cutting machines can duplicate most common home, office, and vehicle keys quickly and affordably.

Rekeying services are also available at reasonable rates for replacing lost keys or enhancing security.

While specialty automotive and high-security keys still require a locksmith, Home Depot handles the bulk of basic key needs for most everyday situations.

So next time you find yourself with a locked door and no spare, check your neighborhood Home Depot for fast, inexpensive key copies. They provide a valuable time-saving service for handling life‘s little lockout emergencies.