Can You Copy a Fob in New York?

If you live in New York and use a key fob to access your apartment or building, you might wonder: can you copy a fob in New York? And the answer is yes, you can.

Let’s break it down.

Is It Legal to Copy a Key Fob in New York?

In general, copying a key fob in New York is legal as long as you’re authorized to use the fob. That usually means:

• You’re a tenant or owner in the building

• The fob belongs to you or was issued to you

• You’re not trying to bypass building security

Some buildings may have internal rules about duplicates, but that’s different from the law itself. Always check your lease or building policies if you’re unsure.

Can All Apartment Fobs Be Copied?

Not all fobs are the same.

Most standard apartment key fobs used in New York can be copied if they are:

• Low-frequency (125 kHz)

• High-frequency RFID (13.56 MHz)

Some newer or highly encrypted systems cannot be duplicated. This is why copying usually needs to be done by a service that can test the fob first, instead of guessing.

If you’re unsure what type of fob you have, that’s normal — most people don’t know until it’s checked.

What You Need to Copy a Fob

To copy a fob, you typically need:

• A working fob (it does not have to be the original issued one)

• A few minutes for testing and duplication

There’s no way to copy a fob using just a photo, serial number, or building address. The physical, working fob is required.

Why People Copy Fobs in New York

People usually look into copying a fob because:

• They want a backup

• A roommate or family member needs access

• Building replacement fees are high

• Management takes a long time to issue extras

Having a spare fob is mostly about convenience, not security concerns.

Where to Copy a Key Fob in New York

If you’re looking for a reliable option, MiniFob offers key fob copying services in New York. You can learn more about what can be copied and how the process works here.

The focus is on apartment and building fobs, not car key fobs.

Final Thoughts: Can You Copy a Fob in New York?

So, can you copy a fob in New York?
In most cases, yes — if the fob is compatible and you have authorization to use it.

If you’re not sure whether your fob can be copied, the best first step is simply having it checked. That saves time and avoids assumptions.