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How to Remove a Door Knob with a Lock: Easy DIY Guide


Published Date: Jul 22, 2025

Door knobs are a pretty common choice for homeowners, and you probably have one at home. They’re reliable and easy to use, but sometimes you want to replace the door knob with a lock to refresh the look or fix an issue, and then the question comes up — how to get it off? Sure Lock & Key presents you with an easy step-by-step guide on how to remove a door knob with a lock using simple tools.

Tools You’ll Need to Remove a Door Knob


Tools You’ll Need to Remove a Door Knob
Start by gathering the tools you’ll need. Nothing fancy — just a few common household tools you have at home or can find in the local hardware store. For example, your main helper will be a screwdriver — check your doorknob to see if you need a flathead or a cross-head style. Then, if your knob has a hidden release hole, a paper clip or pin will be perfect for pressing into it. You may also want to use a flashlight to illuminate tight spots.
That’s it — just the basics to help you through a smooth door knob lock removal — no special equipment required.

Tools You’ll Need to Remove a Door Knob

How to Remove a Door Knob with a Lock: Step-by-Step Instructions


Now that you have the tools, it’s time to get started. Let’s look step-by-step at how to take off a door knob with a lock.

Step 1: Locate the Screws or Mounting Plate

  • Look closely at the base of the door knob on the non-keyhole side of the knob.
  • On most door knobs with lock styles, you’ll either see screws or a small tab covering them.
  • Once you find the screws, use your screwdriver to remove them.

Step 2: Remove Both Sides of the Knob


  • Once the screws are out or released, the two halves of the door knob should now be loose.
  • Gently pull each side of the knob. You might need to wiggle it a bit, but it should slide out without too much force.

Step 3: Take Out the Latch and Strike Plate

  • Now that the knobs are off, look at the edge of the door where the bolt extends. This is the latch mechanism, which is usually held in place by two screws.
  • Unscrew them and remove the mechanism from the door’s edge.
  • Next, look at your door frame, the strike plate, which is the metal piece the latch slides into, usually held by one or two screws. You should also unscrew them to relieve the strike plate from the door frame.
That’s it — you’ve successfully learned how to remove the door knob with a lock the simple way.

Dealing with Knobs That Have No Visible Screws


Dealing with Knobs That Have No Visible Screws
Sometimes, door knobs with locks are designed to hide their screws for a cleaner look. Don’t worry — if you can’t see the fasteners, here’s the trick for how to remove a door knob with lock styles like these:

  • Look for a release hole on the side of the door knob base.
  • Take a thin object — a paperclip or a small pin will be fine — and gently insert it into the hole. You should feel the knob loosen.
  • Pull the knob off and then remove the decorative cover plate.
  • With the cover plate removed, the main screws holding the rest of the lock mechanism to the door should now be visible. Unscrew them to continue with the rest of the steps.
This method can also help with other door locks. For example, it can be helpful when you figure out how to remove a door handle with lock styles that seem screw-less.
Dealing with Knobs That Have No Visible Screws

Summing Up


Now that you know how to take off a door knob with a lock, you can try it yourself — just take your time, gather the tools, and proceed carefully. Yet, if you run into trouble or prefer to leave the job to a professional residential locksmith, don’t hesitate to call Sure Lock & Key. We’re here to assist you with any locksmith service you may need.

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