You hand a worker a key. A week later, they could have three copies. You would never know.
That is the problem with normal keys. Most hardware stores and key kiosks can copy them in a minute. Restricted keys fix that.
Does "Do Not Duplicate" work?
Not really. Those words are just stamped on the key. They are a polite request, not a lock on copying.
Some key shops will say no. Many will copy it anyway. And a key kiosk can't read the stamp at all.
The fix: don't count on a stamp. Count on a key that the store can't cut.
What is a restricted key?
A restricted key has a special shape. The blank, the uncut key, is not sold in hardware stores. Only an approved locksmith can get the blanks and cut them.
And here is the important part: the locksmith only cuts a new key when you say yes. Your business keeps a short list of people who are allowed to ask for copies. Nobody else can order one.
How copies are controlled
Every restricted key system works a little differently. Most follow the same simple idea:
- Your keys use a keyway that is set aside for your business or your area.
- The locksmith keeps a record of who can approve new keys.
- A new key needs a signature or an OK from someone on that list.
- Each key can be stamped with a number, so you can track who has which one.
So if a worker wants a spare, they have to ask you. That's the whole point.
Who needs restricted keys?
Not every business needs them. They make the most sense when:
- You have a master key system. A copied master key opens every door.
- Your staff changes often.
- You have cash, stock, records or medicine behind a locked door.
- You manage many units or suites and hand out keys to vendors.
- You have had a key go missing and never knew where it went.
If two or more of these sound like you, restricted keys are worth a look.
Restricted keys vs. rekeying
These two do different jobs.
Rekeying changes the lock so old keys stop working. It is the fix after a key goes missing, or after someone leaves with a key.
Restricted keys stop new copies from being made. They are the fix before a problem starts.
Many businesses do both. They rekey once, switch to restricted keys at the same time, and then keep a key log.
Keep a key log
Restricted keys work best with a simple list. Write down each key number, who has it, and the date you gave it out. When someone leaves, check the list and collect their key.
If a key isn't returned, you know which locks to rekey. No guessing.
What about going keyless?
For some doors, a card or code is easier than any key. You can turn off one person's access in seconds. Read our post on card readers vs. keypads, or see our access control page.
Many businesses mix both: restricted keys for most doors, and access control on the busiest ones.
Next step
Tell us how many doors you have and who needs to open what. We'll tell you if restricted keys make sense for you, and you get the price before we start.
Contact us or call (682) 324-6688. We're open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM.
Quick answers
Can a hardware store copy a restricted key?
No. Restricted key blanks are not sold to hardware stores or key kiosks. Only an approved locksmith can cut them, and only with the OK of someone on your approved list.
Does "Do Not Duplicate" stop people from copying a key?
Not reliably. It is only a stamp. Some shops follow it, many do not, and key kiosks can't read it. A restricted key is the better way to control copies.
Do I need to change my locks to get restricted keys?
Usually the lock cylinders are changed or re-pinned to take the new key. The rest of the lock hardware can often stay. We'll look at your doors and tell you before any work starts.