What are Restricted Keyway and High Security Keys?

August 24, 2020

Keys come in different shapes and forms. It is important for everyone to make sure they find the right keys for their needs. One unique key is called a restricted key which is also called a high-security key. These keys are useful in certain situations and provide added benefits to those who have them. At Express Locksmith, we are a 24-hour professional locksmith service in the local area. We get a lot of questions about restricted and high-security devices. We have put together a few helpful answers to some of the most common questions so that you can make the right decision for your needs.

What is a Restricted Keyway Lock?

First, it is important to know what a restricted keyway lock is. A restricted keyway lock is a type of lock that is designed to prevent keys from being duplicated without permission. In order to make this happen, a lock usually uses a key that is controlled by one specific locksmith. In addition, in order to copy the key, the individual has to be on the signature card if they would like a duplicate.

In this manner, these can only be copied by us. Everyone who wants a copy of the key has to have the right identification and signature. This also prevents companies from having to rekey their locks every time an employee leaves. Once an employee leaves and the key is returned, we will know that there aren’t any copies of the key out there.

What Does a Restricted Key Look Like?

A restricted key can take different shapes and forms depending on the level of restriction. Most of these are only able to be copied by the lock manufacturer. These keys usually require some level of ID card identification in order to be copied. Keys that are purchased at this level usually have to be ordered in advance.

In addition, a key of this type can only be cut by a specific locksmith. In this manner, the locksmith has actually purchased the rights to that key. These keys are often protected by a license at either the local, state or national level.

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What is a High-Security Key?

A high-security key is simply a different name for a restricted key. A high-security key has been designed to be difficult to duplicate. These keys are notoriously hard for someone to copy without going to the original locksmith. For this reason, anyone who would like to duplicate a high-security key should reach out to the locksmith and ask for a copy. As long as the individual has the right permission, it shouldn’t be a problem to duplicate a high-security key. The right locksmith should have the paperwork and tools necessary to make a copy of a high-security key.

Are There Keys That Cannot Be Duplicated?

While there aren’t keys out there that absolutely cannot be duplicated under any conditions, there are some that are very hard to make copies of without the right information. When it comes to a restricted key, there is usually a complex system of blanks that have been put in place to make the key harder to copy. These blanks can only be duplicated by the locksmith if a registered user asks for it. It is actually illegal for another locksmith to try and make copies of a key, particularly if it is owned by another locksmith.

In some cases, locksmiths are only allowed to work on these locks if it will not interfere with the operations of this system. In this fashion, this key is a highly secure device. While it is possible to duplicate one, this should only be done by the locksmith with the right permissions.

How Do I Get a Copy of the Restricted Key?

If you would like to get a copy of one, then you need to reach out to a trained and experienced locksmith to ask for help. These are very different when compared to typical keys and it is important to get a copy that is going to work well while also providing the same security measures. That is where we can help.

At Express Locksmith, we place the needs of our customers ahead of our own. That is why we are open 24 hours per day to make sure that we serve everyone in the Houston, TX area. Our professionals have a lot of experience when it comes to working with these and other unique security options. When someone calls to ask for help, we leverage this experience to provide the best experience possible to our clients.

If you want to learn more about high security and restricted keys, or if you have another concern, please contact us today to speak with a member of our team! We look forward to hearing from you!

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