Arcane Lock

Abjuration

Level: 2nd-level

Casting Time: 1 action

Range: Touch

Duration: Until dispelled

Components: V, S, M

Materials: Gold dust worth at least 25gp, which the spell consumes.

You touch a closed door, window, gate, chest, or other entryway, and it becomes locked for the duration. You and the creatures you designate when you cast this spell can open the object normally. You can also set a password that, when spoken within 5 feet of the object, suppresses this spell for 1 minute. Otherwise, it is impassable until it is broken or the spell is dispelled or suppressed. Casting knock on the object suppresses arcane lock for 10 minutes. While affected by this spell, the object is more difficult to break or force open; the DC to break it or pick any locks on it increases by 10.

Spell Details

School: Abjuration

Level: 2

Ritual: No

Concentration: No

Classes: Wizard

B-Tier Arcane Lock is a versatile utility spell with strong non-combat applications, but limited tactical value in direct encounters due to its touch requirement and lack of offensive capability.

Player Guide

Use Arcane Lock before or after combat to secure important locations, treasure, or escape routes—designating allies as authorized openers ensures party access while denying enemies entry. The password mechanic provides a secondary security layer; use complex passwords or share them only with trusted NPCs to create narrative control points. In siege scenarios or dungeon defense, cast it on doors leading to your camp or treasure vault to buy time and force enemies into resource-intensive breaching attempts. Consider the spell's 8-hour duration when planning extended adventures; recast before long rests to maintain security.

Spell Combos

symbol Layer Symbol on a locked door to punish unauthorized opening attempts with magical damage or effects, creating a lethal trap beyond the spell lock itself.alarm Cast Alarm on the same object to receive silent notification when someone attempts to force open an Arcane Locked door, providing early warning without revealing the trap.hold-person Prevent enemies from reaching a locked door long enough for your party to escape through an alternate route or prepare an ambush.

DM Tips

Clarify whether Arcane Lock prevents physical damage to the locked object or only prevents normal opening—most rulings allow it to be smashed through with sufficient force (DC based on object durability). Remember that the password only suppresses the spell for 1 minute once spoken, requiring a new password utterance if enemies learn it and want repeated access.

Related Spells

warding-bond