How do I rekey a door lock?

The short version

Rekeying means changing a lock so a new key works and the old key does not. You can do it yourself in minutes on a Kwikset lock with SmartKey, because the lock is built for it. On other brands, a conventional rekey means taking the cylinder apart and swapping its pins, which is locksmith work in most cases. If the old key is lost, you also need a locksmith or a builder's help.

Which lock do you have?

Look at the brand stamped on the latch edge or inside the lock. Kwikset locks sold with SmartKey have a SmartKey hole for the SmartKey tool, and that tool comes in the box. Kwikset says its SmartKey Security® lock is easy to use and does not require experience to complete.^[2] The design is Kwikset's own: SmartKey Security® is a patented cylinder design only available on Kwikset products.^[2] So the method below does not work on other brands, and it does not work on an older Kwikset lock without that hole.

You also need the key that works today. Kwikset says SmartKey Security® requires the current working key to perform the rekeying process.^[2] If that key is lost or stolen, Kwikset recommends contacting your builder, a locksmith or its support team.^[2]

Rekeying a SmartKey lock

Work with the door open, so you cannot lock yourself out. Kwikset's instructions start with the lock installed on the door and the door all the way open, and with a deadbolt, knob or lever in the locked position.^[1] Make sure the door cannot close on its own, or that you have another way into your home.^[1]

Next, put in the key that works now. Insert the key that currently operates the lock and rotate it 90 degrees clockwise.^[1] Then push the SmartKey tool fully and firmly into the SmartKey hole; you may feel it click inside the lock.^[1] Pull the tool out, then the old key.

The new key goes in last. Push it in fully, so its edge touches the indent in the cylinder face.^[1] Without pushing or pulling the key, rotate it 180 degrees counter-clockwise, then 180 degrees clockwise, and pull gently to check that it will not come out in that position.^[1] Turn it back 90 degrees counter-clockwise to the starting position, then remove it. The lock now works with the new key only.

Test before you close the door. Lock and unlock with the new key several times while the door is open, then try the old key. It should no longer turn.

What a conventional rekey is

On a standard pin-and-tumbler lock, rekeying means changing the pins so a different key works. A locksmith removes the cylinder, takes it apart, fits pins cut to the new key and puts it back. It leaves the lock hardware on the door, which is why it usually costs less than replacing every lock.

In Virginia the law treats this as locksmith work. Its definition of locksmith services covers selling, servicing, rebuilding, repairing, rekeying, repinning, among much else,^[3] and applies "with or without compensation for the general public or on property not his own nor under his own control or authority,"^[3] so it is aimed at people working on other people's locks, not at you on your own door. For somebody else's property, read whether locksmiths need a license in Virginia first.

Stop and call a pro if

• You do not have a working key. SmartKey rekeying needs the current key.^[2] A locksmith can work without it.
• The lock is not a Kwikset with SmartKey. The patented cylinder is only on Kwikset products,^[2] so any other brand needs a conventional rekey.
• The new key will not turn or the lock jams. Do not force it. A lock that will not turn with the new key usually means the programming went wrong, and a locksmith can sort it out.
• The door will not latch or the deadbolt does not line up. That is a door fit problem, not a keying problem.
• It is a high-security, commercial or electronic lock, or a lock you do not own, such as in a rental.

Hiring and costs

A locksmith's price varies with the job; see what a locksmith costs in Virginia. If a key that sticks is what pushed you to rekey, note that a worn or damaged lock sometimes needs repair or replacement rather than rekeying. Browse handyman services, or see more other-repair answers.

When you want a professional to do it, describe the job once and local businesses can quote it.