How To Open A Deadbolt Lock With A Screwdriver? Step By Step

Last update on: January 1, 2023

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Are you stuck in your own house due to a deadbolt lock? Have you locked the door and misplaced the key? When faced with such a situation, the only question that may have your mind is whether you can unlock a deadbolt lock without a key. Is this possible? If so, how?

You should not panic if an accident occurs. If you have a screwdriver and Bobby pins nearby, you can escape. I will be sharing you with a detailed guide in getting out of this challenging situation. So, let’s get started without further ado!

Table of Contents

Tools You Need

Flathead screwdriver: You should use a flathead screwdriver with a wide head, as it will give you more leverage when trying to break the lock.
A bobby pin: With a bobby pin you can manipulate the lock more easily.

Once you have these tools ready, you are ready to begin the process of opening a door lock with a screwdriver.

7 Steps To Open A Deadbolt Lock With A Screwdriver

Step By Step

1) Understand The Lock

To unlock a deadbolt lock you should understand the logistics of the type of lock.
In most cases, you will have to deal with a pin tumbler or mortise lock. The key components of these locks are the lock pins, the springs, the driver pins, and the plugs.

2) Straighten The Bobby Pin & Insert

Fold the bobby pin & straighten it completely.
Find the bumpy edge and insert it into the keyhole.

3) Place The Screwdriver Underneath The Pin

Take a small flathead screwdriver and place it immediately under the pin.
It is best to use screwdrivers designed to repair small, thin eyeglasses. When picking locks, these screwdrivers have a shallow rate of causing damage.

4) Insert The Screwdriver Inside

Drill a screwdriver into the keyhole, but do not go too far.
You must leave a space in between for proper movement of the bobby pin.

5) Move The Bobby Pin Continuously

You can now manipulate the deadbolt lock pins by moving the bobby pin inside, outside, and in multiple directions.

6) Slightly Glide The Screwdriver In Between The Pins

Now, the screwdriver will create tension between the pins by continuously gliding.
To maintain the tumblers, the screwdriver’s tip should be pretty long.

7) Twist the Screwdriver

Don’t panic if you fail the first time! Instead, be confident, keep trying, and believe me, the deadbolt/door lock will soon open.

Alternatives Methods:

Double Bobby Pin Lock Picking:

Fold the bobby pin’s button to create an L-shaped pin. It will act as a pressure tool.
Take the second bobby pin and unfold it completely to enforce the rotational force.
Put the L-shaped pin inside the keyhole’s bottom & pressurize it slightly.
Now take the other pin and put it into the lock. Try to drag it out slowly along with the deadbolt lock’s pin.
Over time the lock will rotate slightly.
Once the lock rotates completely, the door will open.

Here is the full guide on how to open a door with a bobby pin – Step By Step

Bump Key:

A bump key is the most accessible and standard tool for opening a deadbolt lock. Buy a bump key set from your local hardware store, Walmart, or any other online retailer.

Insert the bump key into the keyhole.
Hit the key’s end with a hammer or screwdriver.

Thus, it will create a turning force & unlock the door instantly.

Use A Credit Card:

You can unlock a door with a credit card. Is it even feasible? Honestly, it is a bit of a challenge and is compatible with only spring-loaded deadbolt locks.

Get a laminated credit card & insert it along the door’s side between the door gap.
The carp tip should touch the bolt lock’s latch.
Joggle & push the credit card to the keyhole.
Lastly, try to open the latch by flexing the card at an angle.

Use A Knife:

You can easily pick a lock with a knife. Below are the basic steps:

Pick a butter knife, Slide it in between the door & door jam.
Move it up & down around the striker plate to find the deadbolt.
If the knife is placed around the deadbolt, push it through the knife to unlock it.

Use A Drill Machine:

Among all techniques, drilling is the one I will prefer only if there are no other options. Drilling can cause significant damage to the deadbolt lock. Make sure you wear gloves and goggles when working with chemicals.

Take a drilling machine and place a strong, long & sharp bit.
Insert the bit through the keyhole.
Apply slight pressure and drill gently.
After a few seconds, stop for a while and lubricate again.
Now insert the bit inside again and keep drilling until the lock opens.

FAQ:

Can You Unlock A Door Without Hiring A Locksmith?

Yes, why not? You can unlock a door using lock-picking tools in just a few minutes. Why would you pay a locksmith when you can do it yourself?

Can You Open a Bolt Lock With Screwdrivers Alone?

Honestly, no. Picking a lock with a screwdriver is useless since screwdrivers are primarily responsible for creating tension. Also, you will need a rake tool, such as a bobby pin, to pick the lock.

Can A Screwdriver Damage The Door?

Using a screwdriver to pick a door lock will only damage the lock if excessive pressure is applied. Take your time, be steady, and be careful.

Can You Lock A Deadbolt Lock Without A Key?

Yes, you will require a bump key to bypass the deadbolts effectively.

Final Words

Before picking a deadbolt lock, you should know its type. The majority of houses and businesses today use pin-tumbler locks.

However, following the proper technique. Although you can open most locks with a bobby pin, paper clip, screwdriver, or bump key.

Finally, use a turning tool to simulate the key, manipulate the lock pins with a lock picker, and that’s it! It’s not as tricky as you have imagined.

[Updated by Palash Talukder]