How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card or Credit Card – 3 Simple Ways

Pnc bank activate card - How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card or Credit Card - 3 Simple Ways

You recently got your new debit card in the mail and now it’s time to learn how to activate your PNC Bank debit card. The good news is that you have multiple ways you can approach this chore so be sure to add one of them to your to-do list today! 

You can activate your PNC Bank debit card by heading to the ATM and processing your first transaction. If you prefer to do it over the phone, you can call 1 (888) 762-2265. From your laptop or tablet, you can also activate it through their online portal. 

If you are ready to activate your brand-new debit card, here is the breakdown of all the ways you can start putting it into rotation. 

How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card: At the ATM

How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card

One of the most convenient ways to learn how to activate your PNC Bank debit card is through the ATM. Fortunately, there are more than 18,000 PNC and partner ATMs from coast to coast.

You can search for a nearby ATM using their locator tool. All you have to do is enter your zip code to find the closest location to your home or workplace. 

How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card

Here we’ll walk you through the process at the ATM.

1. Set Language for PNC ATMs

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Once you arrive at the ATM, the only thing you have to do is swipe your card and set the preferred language. 

2. Confirm identity using email

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From here, they will offer further instructions to verify your identity. 

3. Enter your PIN-Code

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You will be asked to enter your existing PIN.

4. Select transaction and follow through – This actives your card

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Continue with the transaction to make your deposit or withdrawal as you usually would. The transaction serves to activate the new debit card.

Activating the Card Over the Phone

pnc phone card activation - How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card or Credit Card - 3 Simple Ways

Some people prefer to make things quick and easy from the comfort of their own home or while they are on the go. Activating the card over the phone is another convenient way to start using your card as soon as possible.

Make sure to have the card handy before you dial in so that you have access to your card number and other relevant details. 

The phone number to call is 1 (888) 762-2265.

When you dial in, you will be greeted with a recording. Listen to the options and select the right one to activate the debit card. 

You will be asked for the card details and some of your personal information to confirm your identity. Be prepared with handy details like social security numbers and birthdays though they may ask you for other things as well. 

After you enter the necessary information, you will need to agree to the terms and conditions. If you agree, your card will then be activated. 

This method can also be used to activate a PNC Bank credit card.

If you need to learn how to activate another type of card, we also have a guide on how to activate an American Express Green Card.

How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card: Online

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If the phone isn’t your forte, you might choose to activate your PNC Bank debit card or credit card through their online portal. Signing in and activating your card will only take a few minutes. It is likely most convenient to do this on a laptop or tablet, but you can try it from any mobile device as well. 

The first thing you need to do is sign up for a PNC Bank online account. For those who do not already have online banking set up, you can enroll online via their website. You will need to have your social security number, Visa debit PIN or online access PIN, and your PNC account number. 

If you have any issues enrolling in online banking, you can contact their customer service helpline at 1 (888) 762-2265. They are open: 

  • Monday through Friday: 7 AM to 10 PM ET
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8 AM to 5 PM ET
How to Activate PNC Bank Debit Card

Once you enroll and sign in, click on the Manage Credit Cards button to figure out how to activate your PNC Bank debit card or credit card. You will want to have the card available before signing in to do this as you will need: 

  • Full card number
  • Name
  • Personal identifying details like a social security number

After entering all of this information, you will need to agree to the terms and conditions. Do not skip this step. Make sure you agree and click submit at the end of the screen. If you do not click submit, it will not activate your new debit card. 

Activating Your New PNC Bank Debit Card – Conclusion

PNC Bank provides a variety of ways for you to learn how to activate your PNC Bank debit card and credit card. From accessing an ATM to calling customer service to use online banking, there is a convenient way to activate this card for everyone! 

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