Discover.com/activate

Activate your new Discover card online, in the Discover Mobile app, or by phone. The steps below are short, secure, and easy to follow.

Before you start

• Your new Discover card (card number, expiration date, and security code)
  
  

• Primary cardholder info for verification (e.g., last 4 of SSN/ITIN for U.S. accounts)
  
  

• Your Discover online login, or access to your phone/email for one-time codes
  
  

Option 1: Activate online (fastest)

1. Go to https://www.discover.com/activate
   
   

2. Sign in to your Discover account (or register if you’re new)
   
   

3. Select the card to activate and follow the prompts (security code, identity check)
   
   

4. Wait for the confirmation that your card is active
   
   

Option 2: Activate in the Discover Mobile app

1. Open the Discover Mobile app and sign in
   
   

2. Tap the card that needs activation
   
   

3. Choose “Activate” (or “Finish Setup”) and complete the steps
   
   

4. If prompted, create or confirm your card PIN (debit cards may require a PIN)
   
   

Option 3: Activate by phone

• Call the activation number printed on the sticker attached to your new card
  
  

• Follow the automated prompts to verify your identity and activate
  
  

• Ask for a representative if you prefer live assistance
  
  

Tip
After activation, remove the sticker so it doesn’t cover card details later.

Troubleshooting

• Card not visible in your account: Log out and back in, or confirm you’re using the correct Discover profile
  
  

• No verification code received: Check spam/blocked messages, confirm your phone/email on file, then request a new code
  
  

• Name/address mismatch: Update your profile details and try activation again
  
  

• Debit vs. credit: Discover Bank debit cards and Discover credit cards may have slightly different prompts (e.g., PIN setup for debit). Follow the on-screen or phone instructions for your specific card type
  
  

• Still stuck? Use the number on the back of your card or the Help section in the app to contact Discover
  
  

Helpful links

• Official activation page: https://www.discover.com/activate
  
  

• Discover Mobile app: search “Discover Mobile” in your device’s app store