Minutes 0–10: look properly
- Every pocket, including jackets in the car
- Bags, grocery bags, the stroller basket
- Through the car windows: seats, footwells, ignition, trunk
- Ground around the driver's door
Minutes 10–20: call and ask
Stores, restaurants, gyms and offices keep keys at the front desk. Call before you walk back.
Minutes 20–30: choose the fix
If someone can bring a spare within an hour, wait. Otherwise text the year, make, model and location to a mobile locksmith and get a price.
If theft is possible
Keys in a stolen bag with your license or mail are a risk to the car and the house. Erase the lost key from the car the same day. See stolen car keys.
What to have ready
- Year, make and model
- Push to start or turn key
- Exact location
- Registration or title and photo ID
Written by Need Key, the lost car key service of Keyhub Locksmith in Marietta, GA. Updated October 24, 2026.