Activating your credit card

Learn how to activate your new or replacement Capital One credit card.

Activating your credit card

Learn how to activate your new or replacement Capital One credit card.

When you receive a new or replacement credit card, you’ll need to activate it by confirming the 3-digit security code on the back. Here’s how.


Make sure to download the Capital One app and enroll in online banking to continue.

Enrolling in online banking

 

If you don’t have a Capital One online account, you’ll need to create one before you can activate your card. One of the most convenient ways to enroll in online banking is in the Capital One app or website.

 

Once you’ve enrolled, follow the prompts to activate your card, which will include entering the 3-digit security code on the back.

If you already have a Capital One online account, you’ll need to link your new card to your username before you can activate it. 

 

Then, follow the prompts to activate your card.

Other ways to activate your card

In the mobile app:

  • Select Profile

  • Select Account & Feature Settings

  • Select Activate a Credit Card

On the Capital One website:

  • Select I Want to…

  • Under Account Settings, select Activate Card

Update recurring charges with your replacement card

Once your replacement card is activated, remember to update your card information wherever you have recurring purchases or subscriptions. Some merchants may automatically update, but not all will.

Dispose of your old card securely

Plastic cards: Cut through the old card several times, making sure you slice through the chip and magnetic strip to protect your personal information and prevent fraudulent usage.


Metal cards: Don’t cut your metal cards! We’ll send you a return envelope with your replacement card so your old card can be properly disposed of.

When you receive a new or replacement credit card, you’ll need to activate it online or by phone, where you’ll confirm the 3-digit security code on the back.

Activate new card

You can find your 3-digit security code on the back of your card by the signature line (if applicable).

To activate your new credit card by phone, call the number provided on the adhesive, removable strip attached to your card and follow the instructions. 

If you miss a step, simply start over by ending the call and calling the phone number on your card again.

After activating your replacement card, dispose of your old card securely.

Plastic cards: Cut through the card several times, ensuring you cut through the chip and magnetic strip to protect your personal information and prevent fraud.

Metal cards: Don’t cut your metal cards! We’ll send you a return envelope with your replacement card so that it can be properly disposed of.

Sign your replacement card.

Update recurring charges and transactions with your replacement card number.

Even though some merchants may automatically update, view your recurring merchants to prevent charges from being declined.