Abstract: A method and apparatus for identification and control of the handling of keys which will register when a key is removed from and returned to an identification and control device. The identification code of the user is fed into a control center (4) and the identification code is forwarded to a printed circuit card (18) of a local control and indication unit (2) so that the removability and the removal of a key is registered and indicated on the control and indication unit (2) by the control center (4). The identification and control device (3) has a pin-like, hollow shell (26) with a printed circuit card (42) and a chip (43). The chip (43) has a unique code for each identification and control device (3). The hollow shell (26) is inserted into a hole (23) in the local control and indication unit (2) and engages with a contact (19) whereby information is forwarded, via the printed circuit card (42) and the chip (43) of the device (3), to the printed circuit card (18) of the local control and indication unit (2).