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Key Duplication in Singapore: How to Find a Reliable Service

Where to get keys cut in Singapore, which key types can be copied, and what to check before you pay: accuracy, security keys, remotes and access cards.

  • By the Lookup team
  • Updated
  • 2 min read

Key duplication is offered by shoemakers, hardware shops, kiosks in malls and heartland shops, and by locksmiths. The earlier version of this article listed named shops with phone numbers. We removed those because we could not confirm them as current. Here is how to choose a service and what to expect.

Where to get keys cut

  • Key kiosks and shoe-and-key shops: quick and convenient for standard house keys and padlock keys, often while you wait.
  • Locksmiths: can handle higher-security keys, rekeying and car keys, and may come to you.
  • Car dealerships and specialists: needed for many modern car keys with chips or remote fobs.
  • Building management or condo office: for access cards and fobs, since these are often controlled by management.

What can be copied

  • Standard keys: usually straightforward and cheap.
  • Restricted or high-security keys: often stamped "do not duplicate" or cut to a restricted profile. A reputable shop may ask for authorisation before copying one.
  • Car keys: may require programming a transponder chip, which needs specialist equipment.
  • Remote controls for gates: compatible remotes can sometimes be cloned, depending on the system.
  • RFID access cards and fobs: copying may be possible technically, but you need permission from the building management. Do not copy cards you do not have rights to.

What to check

  1. Accuracy: Ask the shop to test the copy in the lock if possible. Poorly cut keys wear locks.
  2. Original condition: Worn originals produce bad copies, so use the original, not a copy of a copy.
  3. Price: Ask the price before the work starts. Costs vary by key type, and car keys and remotes cost much more than house keys.
  4. Warranty: Ask whether they re-cut a copy that does not work.
  5. Security: If you lose a key, rekeying or changing the lock is safer than just copying the spare.

Tips

  • Cut a spare before you need it, and keep it somewhere safe with someone you trust.
  • Avoid leaving keys with your address attached.
  • For lockouts, see our guide to locksmith services.