PNC Bank does exchange currency, but only at a handful of branches and with significant markups on the exchange rate

PNC Bank offers currency exchange at select locations, primarily in major cities and at their main downtown branches. However, the exchange rate you receive will be worse than the mid-market rate — the actual rate banks use between themselves. PNC adds a markup, sometimes 2 to 5 percent or more depending on the currency and the amount. You will also pay a flat fee per transaction, which varies by branch and currency.

Before you go to a PNC branch, call ahead. Not every PNC location offers currency exchange, and some branches that do may have limited hours for the service or require advance notice for larger amounts. The availability depends on the branch's size and location.

Key Takeaways

  • PNC exchanges currency at select branches, but the exchange rate includes a markup that makes it more expensive than other methods.
  • You must call your branch in advance to confirm they offer currency exchange and to ask about fees for your specific currency.
  • Larger amounts may require advance notice, and some branches may not stock all currencies.
  • For better rates, consider a currency exchange specialist, a credit union, or a wire transfer service instead of a bank branch.

Which PNC branches offer currency exchange

PNC's currency exchange service is not available at every branch. Larger branches in downtown areas and major cities are more likely to offer it than smaller suburban or rural locations. The best way to find out is to call your local PNC branch directly and ask whether they exchange currency.

When you call, ask three things: whether they exchange the specific currency you need, what the fee is, and whether you need to order the currency in advance. Some branches keep common currencies like euros, Canadian dollars, and British pounds on hand, but less common currencies may require a few business days' notice.

How PNC's exchange rate and fees work

PNC's exchange rate is not the mid-market rate — the rate you see on financial websites. Instead, PNC quotes a retail rate that includes their markup. The markup typically ranges from 2 to 5 percent, though it can be higher for less common currencies. This means if the mid-market rate for euros is 1.10 USD per euro, PNC might quote you 1.05 or lower, depending on their markup.

On top of the unfavorable rate, PNC charges a flat fee per transaction. This fee varies by branch and by currency, so you must ask when you call. For a $500 to $1,000 exchange, the fee might be $15 to $25, but confirm with your branch. The fee is separate from the markup built into the rate itself.

To understand the true cost, ask PNC for the total amount in the foreign currency you will receive for a specific dollar amount. Do not rely on the exchange rate alone — the fee and markup together determine what you actually get.

When to use PNC currency exchange versus alternatives

PNC's currency exchange makes sense only if you need cash in a foreign currency immediately and you have a PNC account at a branch that offers the service. If you have time to plan, other options are cheaper.

Specialized currency exchange services like Wise (formerly TransferWise), OFX, or local currency exchange shops often offer rates much closer to mid-market, with lower or no markup. These services work online or in person and are worth comparing if you are exchanging more than a few hundred dollars.

Credit unions sometimes offer better exchange rates than banks, especially if you are a member. Call your credit union and ask whether they exchange currency and what their markup is.

ATMs abroad are often the cheapest way to get foreign currency if you are traveling. Your bank charges a foreign ATM fee (typically $2 to $5), but the exchange rate is usually better than what you get at a branch.

Wire transfers through PNC or another bank are useful if you are sending money to someone abroad rather than getting cash. The rate is still marked up, but you avoid the physical handling fee.

What to bring when you exchange currency at PNC

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license or passport. If you are exchanging a large amount, PNC may ask for additional information under anti-money-laundering rules. Amounts over $10,000 trigger federal reporting, but PNC may ask questions for smaller amounts too depending on the circumstances.

Bring the exact dollar amount you want to exchange, or be prepared to withdraw it from your PNC account on the spot. Some branches may allow you to exchange currency from a credit card, but this is less common and may incur additional fees. Ask when you call to confirm what payment methods your branch accepts.

Ordering currency in advance

If you need a currency that your branch does not keep in stock, you can usually order it in advance. The lead time is typically three to five business days, though it can be longer for very uncommon currencies. You will still pay the same markup and fee, and you may be required to pay a deposit or commit to the exchange before the currency arrives.

Ordering in advance is useful if you know your travel dates and want to lock in a rate, but it does not save you money — only time. The rate PNC quotes when you order is the rate you will pay when you pick up the currency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange currency at any PNC ATM?

No. PNC ATMs dispense only US dollars. You cannot exchange currency at an ATM. You must visit a branch that offers currency exchange services in person.

What happens if PNC does not have the currency I need?

Call the branch and ask whether they can order it. Most branches can order common currencies within three to five business days. If the currency is very uncommon, the branch may refer you to a currency exchange specialist or suggest you use an ATM abroad instead.

Is the exchange rate locked in when I order currency in advance?

Ask your branch. Some branches lock in the rate when you place the order, while others quote a rate that may change before you pick up the currency. Get the policy in writing before you commit to an order.

Can I exchange currency online through PNC's website?

PNC does not offer online currency exchange. You must visit a branch in person or use a third-party service like Wise or OFX if you want to exchange currency without going to a branch.

What if I receive damaged or counterfeit foreign currency from PNC?

Contact the branch where you exchanged the currency immediately. PNC is responsible for the quality of the currency they provide. Bring the damaged bills and your receipt, and the branch should replace them or refund your money.