Car Key Replacement in San Jose, CA

When every key is gone

If one working key survives, a new one can usually be copied from it. If none does, there is nothing to copy, and California law adds a paper trail. Under Penal Code § 466.6, an ignition key made in any way other than copying an existing one needs a work order you sign, listing your name, address, date of birth and driver's license or ID number, plus the car's plate, VIN and description. The maker must keep that record for two years. This is general information, not legal advice.

The paperwork matters as much as the car. Have ready:

1. A photo ID, such as your driver's license or state ID.
2. The registration or title issued by your state motor-vehicle agency, in your name.
3. The VIN, which also appears on the dashboard at the base of the windshield and on the driver's door frame.
4. The license plate number.

If the registration is locked in the car, say so in your request. If the car is registered to a relative, an employer or a lender, say whose name is on it.

Where the car is parked

Key work needs the car on hand, so its location shapes the request.

• A home garage. Make sure the garage door can be opened and that there is room to work at the driver's door.
• An apartment lot or garage. Give the gate or garage entry details and the space number.
• A residential street. With no working key the car cannot be driven out of the way, so copy the day and time printed on the nearest sweeping sign into your request.
• Downtown or a major arterial. Where a posted tow zone applies, the car can be towed as well as cited, so include what the nearest sign says.

What else to include

Say which vehicle it is by year, make and model, whether it starts with a push button or a turned key, and how many keys you want. Remotes are covered under key fob programming. The service overview is on the car key replacement page, and the San Jose page has the city's sweeping rules.