To provide a key reading apparatus which automates the operation of reading a key ridge of a key by employing a simple structure, and which can shorten an operation time by minimizing an operation process.

The key reading apparatus includes: a body (60); link members (62A-62E), the one-side ends of which are turnably journaled on the body (60), the other-side ends of which are provided with sliders (64) having a plurality of switch operation parts (65) formed at predetermined intervals along a moving direction, respectively, and in which a key clamp (66) capable of abutting on the key ridge of the key is provided in an intermediate position; and a reading switch which is turned on by making the switch operation part (65) abut depending on the movement of the slider (64).