PNC Bank does exchange currency, but only at certain locations and with limits on the amounts and types of currency they handle
PNC Bank offers currency exchange at many of its branches, but the service is not available everywhere and comes with real constraints. Not every PNC location exchanges currency — you need to call ahead or visit a branch that handles it. The bank exchanges major currencies like euros, Canadian dollars, British pounds, and Japanese yen, but the list of what they will exchange varies by branch. You will pay a fee or receive a less favorable exchange rate than you would see online, because the bank builds in a margin on every transaction.
If you need currency before a trip or after returning home with foreign cash, PNC can help at many locations. But if you need an unusual currency, a large amount, or want the best possible rate, you may need to use a currency exchange specialist instead. Understanding what PNC offers and what it does not will save you time and money.
Key Takeaways
- PNC exchanges currency at many branches, but you must call ahead to confirm your specific branch offers the service and has the currency you need in stock.
- PNC handles major currencies like euros, Canadian dollars, and British pounds, but the exact list of available currencies differs by location.
- You will pay a fee or accept an exchange rate less favorable than the mid-market rate, because PNC builds in a margin on currency trades.
- For large amounts, unusual currencies, or the best possible rate, a dedicated currency exchange service may offer better terms than a bank branch.
Which currencies PNC will exchange
PNC exchanges the most common currencies used by travelers and people sending money abroad. These include euros (EUR), Canadian dollars (CAD), British pounds (GBP), Japanese yen (JPY), Swiss francs (CHF), Australian dollars (AUD), and Mexican pesos (MXN). Some branches also handle currencies like Chinese yuan, Indian rupees, and others, but availability depends on the branch location and how often they handle that currency.
The branch you visit may not have every currency in stock on the day you arrive. If you need a specific currency, call the branch at least a few days before you plan to exchange money. This gives them time to order it if they do not have it on hand. Branches in areas with more international travel or larger immigrant communities are more likely to stock a wider range of currencies regularly.
How to exchange currency at PNC
Start by calling the PNC branch nearest you and asking whether they exchange currency. If they do, ask whether they have the specific currency you need or how long it takes to order it. You can find branch phone numbers on the PNC website or by calling PNC customer service at 1-888-762-2265.
When you visit the branch, bring your currency in cash or traveler's checks. Bring your ID — the teller will ask for it. The branch will count your money, calculate the exchange using their rate, subtract any fees, and give you U.S. dollars (or vice versa if you are exchanging dollars for foreign currency). The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if the currency is in stock.
If the branch does not have your currency in stock, they can order it, but this typically takes three to five business days. You will need to return to pick it up once it arrives. Some branches may charge a fee for ordering currency that is not commonly exchanged.
Exchange rates and fees at PNC
PNC does not use the mid-market rate — the rate you see quoted on financial websites. Instead, they use a rate that includes their margin, which is how they make money on the transaction. This means you will receive fewer dollars for your foreign currency than the mid-market rate would suggest, or pay more dollars to buy foreign currency.
PNC may also charge a flat fee for the exchange, typically a few dollars depending on the currency and amount. Ask the teller for the exact rate and any fees before you complete the transaction. The combination of the rate margin and fees means currency exchange at a bank is usually more expensive than using a dedicated currency exchange service, especially for large amounts.
If you are exchanging a small amount for a trip, the difference may be just a few dollars and not worth shopping around. If you are exchanging several hundred dollars or more, comparing PNC's rate to a currency exchange specialist's rate can save you money.
Alternatives to PNC for currency exchange
If PNC cannot meet your needs, other options exist. Currency exchange specialists like Travelex, OFX, and local independent exchange services often offer better rates than banks, especially for larger amounts or less common currencies. Some of these services operate online and will mail currency to you or let you pick it up at a location.
Credit unions sometimes exchange currency for members at better rates than banks. If you belong to a credit union, ask whether they offer this service. Airport currency exchange booths are convenient but typically charge the highest fees and offer the worst rates, so use them only if you have no other option.
For regular international transfers or ongoing currency needs, services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or OFX offer mid-market rates with a small, transparent fee. These work best if you are sending money to another country rather than exchanging cash in hand.
What to do if your branch does not exchange currency
Not all PNC branches exchange currency. Smaller branches, especially in rural areas, may not offer the service at all. If your branch does not exchange currency, you have a few options. You can visit a larger PNC branch in a nearby city that does offer it. You can use a currency exchange specialist, which may actually be faster and cheaper than traveling to another branch.
You can also order currency online from services like Travelex or OFX and have it delivered to your home or pick it up at a location near you. This option works well if you do not need the currency urgently and want to compare rates before committing.
Exchanging currency after you return from a trip
If you come home with leftover foreign currency, PNC will exchange it back to dollars at the same branch where you originally exchanged it, or at any other PNC branch that handles currency. Bring the bills in good condition — torn, marked, or heavily damaged bills may be refused. Coins are harder to exchange; many branches will not take foreign coins at all, so ask first.
The rate you receive when exchanging foreign currency back to dollars will again include PNC's margin, so you will lose a bit more money on the return exchange. If you have only a small amount left, it may not be worth the trip. Some travelers keep leftover currency for their next trip instead of exchanging it back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange currency online through PNC's website?
PNC does not offer online currency exchange through their website. You must visit a branch in person with your cash or traveler's checks. However, you can call ahead to confirm the branch has the currency you need before you visit.
Does PNC exchange cryptocurrency or digital currencies?
No, PNC does not exchange cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, or other digital currencies. They exchange only physical cash and traveler's checks in traditional currencies. If you need to convert cryptocurrency, you will need to use a cryptocurrency exchange platform.
What if I need currency exchanged on a weekend or after hours?
PNC branches are closed on weekends and evenings, so you cannot exchange currency outside regular business hours. If you need currency urgently, airport exchange booths operate 24 hours, though their rates are typically worse than a bank's. Plan ahead and visit a branch during business hours when possible.
Is there a limit to how much currency I can exchange at PNC?
PNC does not publish a specific limit on currency exchange amounts. Very large exchanges may require advance notice so the branch can have enough currency on hand. Call the branch to discuss your needs if you are exchanging more than a few thousand dollars.
Do I need to be a PNC customer to exchange currency?
Most PNC branches will exchange currency for non-customers, but some may require you to have an account. Call your local branch to confirm their policy before you visit. Even if they require an account, opening one is free and takes only a few minutes.