An apparatus and method for providing a universal electronic locking system (UELS) which controls an actuating device for a lock is disclosed. The system is composed of two elements, a signal-transmitting unit and a signal-receiving unit. The signal transmitting unit transmits one or more encoded signals on electromagnetic carriers. An integrated circuit includes a programmable memory unit such that various codes may be entered and the codes may be changed at any interval desired by the operator. The signal-receiving unit comprises a means for receiving the encoded signals from the signal-transmitting unit and contains a programmable memory unit which is responsive to each and all codes contained in the signal-transmitting unit. Upon changing the code signal in the signal-transmitting unit, the memory unit of the signal-receiving unit may be reprogrammed so as to be responsive to the newly encoded signal and allow the latching mechanism of the lock system to be operated. The system may be used alone or in combination with conventional key operated locking mechanisms. The UELS is contemplated for applications in the home, business industry, recreation, defense and wherever locks and codes are used.