In this article:
Debit cards allow you to conveniently make purchases, pay bills and access money in your bank account. You can get a debit card by opening a checking account with a bank or credit union. Opening a new account has minimal requirements and typically only takes a few minutes.
What Do You Need to Get a Debit Card?
A debit card is typically linked to a checking account and allows you to make purchases and withdraw cash from your account. Using a debit card generally doesn't accumulate a balance or interest.
To get a debit card, you generally need a few things:
- A checking account at a bank or credit union
- A government-issued photo ID, driver's license or passport
- A Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
- Your date of birth
- Proof of address, such as a utility bill or mortgage document
- An opening deposit, if the bank requires it
Requirements can vary depending on the financial institution and type of account.
Learn more: What Documents Do I Need to Open a Bank Account?
How to Get a Debit Card
Getting a debit card is part of opening a new checking account. Here's how the process typically works.
1. Choose a Checking Account
Before opening an account, compare checking accounts to find one that fits your needs. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Monthly maintenance fees: While there's no charge for the debit card, many checking accounts charge a small monthly fee. Fortunately, there are often ways to get these fees waived, such as by maintaining a minimum balance or receiving a certain amount in direct deposits each month.
- ATM access: Check whether ATMs are conveniently located and whether your account charges fees for out-of-network withdrawals.
- Interest: Some checking accounts pay interest on your balance, though they may have higher minimum balance requirements.
- Rewards: Some checking accounts offer cash back rewards on qualifying purchases.
- Overdraft protection: Some banks offer options for avoiding overdraft fees, such as linking to a savings account or line of credit.
- Digital banking features: Look for features such as mobile banking, online bill pay, mobile check deposit, ATM fee rebates and account alerts.
Find Digital Checking Accounts
2. Open the Checking Account
Once you've chosen an account, you'll need to complete an application with the bank or credit union. Gather the documents and information you'll need before applying.
Depending on the financial institution, you may be able to open an account online, over the phone or at a branch. After your application is approved, the bank will provide your new account information.
Learn more: What Is Required When Opening a Checking Account?
3. Fund the Account
Some banks require a minimum initial deposit to open a checking account. Even if a deposit isn't required, you'll need money in your account to make debit card purchases.
You can typically fund your account by:
- Depositing cash at a local branch
- Transferring from another bank account or peer-to-peer payment service
- Setting up direct deposit
4. Request and Wait for Your Debit Card
Many banks automatically mail a debit card to you after you open a checking account. Some banks and credit unions allow you to choose from several designs or upload your own image.
If you already have a checking account but don't have a debit card, you may have several options to request one:
- Through the mobile app
- By logging in to your online account
- By calling customer service
- At a local bank branch
Tip: Check to see if your new bank allows you to add your card to a digital wallet to use before your physical card arrives.
5. Activate Your Card
Once your debit card arrives, you'll need to activate it before you can use it. Banks typically offer several convenient options to activate your new card:
- Calling the number on the card
- Online or through the mobile app
- At an ATM using your PIN (which will arrive separately in the mail)
- Scanning a code with your phone
- Taking it to a bank branch
Your new debit card will come with instructions for activating it. For example, you may have to enter the PIN or security code to activate your card.
Tips for Using a Debit Card
Because debit card purchases typically come directly from your bank account, it's important to protect your card and monitor your account.
- Monitor your account balance. Check your balance regularly to make sure you have enough for upcoming purchases and scheduled transactions.
- Set your overdraft preference. Depending on your bank and account, you may be able to choose whether certain transactions that would cause an overdraft are declined or approved, potentially leading to an overdraft fee.
- Check your daily limits. Many banks impose daily purchase and ATM withdrawal limits. Knowing these limits can be helpful if you need to make a large purchase or cash withdrawal.
- Protect your PIN. Choose a PIN that isn't easy to guess and don't write it on your card or share it with anyone.
- Watch for skimmers. Criminals can use skimming devices at ATMs, gas stations and other payment terminals to steal your card information. Look for anything unusual before swiping or inserting your card.
- Watch for fraud. Review your transactions regularly and report unauthorized purchases to your bank or credit union as soon as possible.
- Protect your card information. Avoid sending your debit card number by email or text message because these messages can be intercepted or hacked.
Learn more: Why Was My Debit Card Declined When I Have Money?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Debit Card?
The minimum age for getting a debit card varies by financial institution. Some banks offer debit cards for students and teens as young as 13 through teen or student checking accounts, though additional requirements may apply. For example, individuals under 18 may have to apply in person or open a joint account with an adult.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Debit Card?
After opening a new checking account, it may take up to 10 business days to receive your debit card by mail, depending on the bank or credit union.
Can I Get a Debit Card Without a Bank Account?
Yes. Some payment apps offer debit cards without requiring you to open a traditional bank account. You'll generally need to provide identity verification and you'll need funds available in the account to make purchases.
What Should I Do if My Debit Card Is Lost or Stolen?
Contact your bank or credit union as soon as possible to report your missing card. Many banks allow you to lock or freeze your card online or through the mobile app. This will immediately prevent new transactions with your card, while allowing scheduled and recurring transactions to process normally.
Some banks offer expedited replacement or a virtual debit card that you can add to a digital wallet while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
What's the Difference Between a Debit Card and an ATM Card?
Both cards allow you to access money in your bank account, but they function differently. A debit card generally allows you to make purchases, pay bills and withdraw cash from ATMs. On the other hand, an ATM card allows you to withdraw cash and perform other transactions at ATMs. You typically can't use an ATM to make purchases.
The Bottom Line
Getting a debit card is as simple as opening a checking account with a bank or credit union. Once your account is open, most financial institutions mail a debit card to you automatically. Because debit card purchases withdraw money directly from your bank account, it's important to protect your PIN, monitor your account and report fraud or a missing card to your bank or credit union immediately.
If you're thinking about opening a new checking account, the Experian Smart Money™ Digital Checking Account & Debit Card can help you build credit without debt by automatically linking to Experian Boost®ø®ø, which gives you credit for eligible bill payments after three months of payments. You'll also pay no monthly fees¶ for Experian Smart Money, have access to more than 55,000 fee-free ATMs worldwide** and could receive your paychecks up to two days early when you enroll in direct deposit†. You can get an Experian Smart Money Account through a free or paid Experian membership, which also gives you access to your FICO® Score☉ Θ, Experian credit report and more. See terms at experian.com/legal.