Can Locksmiths Copy “Do Not Duplicate” Keys?

Pretty much everyone over the age of 15 or 16 has a set of keys in their pocket or purse. They let you in the front door of your home. They switch the ignition in your car. They open lockboxes and gates. There are probably one or two on your keyring that unlock something you’ve long since lost or forgotten about. And, of course, there are those keys that offer a stern warning: do not duplicate.

Of course, from time to time, it might be necessary to have (or hand out) a spare copy of a key, even if it’s not to be duplicated. If that’s the case, you might find yourself wondering how to copy a “do not duplicate” key in Toledo, OH. Not to worry—we’ve got you covered.

The law is clear

The state of Ohio is very strict about its key copying. In fact, there are laws on the books that make it flat-out illegal to duplicate a key that leads to any “building, laboratory, facility or room of any college or university which is supported wholly or in part by the state of Ohio.” For those buildings that aren’t government funded, the state of Ohio has slightly looser regulations (but only slightly).

In short, locksmiths are not legally allowed to copy “do not duplicate” keys without the user first completing some specific steps.

Communicate with people

The first thing to do when you want to know how to copy a “do not duplicate” key in Toledo, OH, you should consult the key’s owner. If that’s you, then you’re ahead of the game. If not, you’ll need written proof of your authority to copy the key. If your local locksmith in Toledo is familiar with the property or the owner, that should be enough. If not, you may be out of luck.

Should the locksmith agree to copy the key, you will have to supply a photo ID and sign extra paperwork to confirm that you are copying the key with the owner’s discretion.

Don’t be fooled by the “do not copy” myth

In years past, having a “do not duplicate” key that you hand out to tenants or workers on your property may have provided some sense of security. Today, however, most hardware stores have self-service key copying machines that allow almost anyone to make a copy of any standard key.

If you’re putting your faith in the ability of a “do not duplicate” key, or if you believe your “do not duplicate” key has been copied by someone who shouldn’t have it, it’s time to consult a locksmith.

The best in Toledo

If you want to know how to copy a “do not duplicate” key in Toledo, OH, or you’d like to kick your security up to the next level, come to Toledo Lock & Key LLC. We have 40 years of experience offering a huge array of locksmith services. Now it’s your turn to discover the difference real professionals can make. Give us a call today to find out more!

Categorised in: Key Duplication

This post was written by Writer