If you’ve ever stood under the hot Nigerian sun, trying to load your MTN card only to get an error like “Invalid recharge PIN”, then you already know how frustrating it can be. I’ve been there.
A few years ago, I was stranded at a bus park in Ikeja. My data had just expired, I needed to book a ride, and all I had was an MTN recharge card in my wallet. I dialed the code to load the card but mistakenly skipped a digit. That simple mistake cost me 10 minutes and a lot of stares. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to master every method of loading MTN cards and I’m sharing everything with you today.
Whether you’re a first-time user or someone who just wants a quick refresher, this guide will show you how to load MTN card, expert tips to avoid common errors, and some lesser-known hacks to make your recharge seamless.
How to Load MTN Card: Step-by-Step Guide
1. The Default Code to Load MTN Card
If you bought an MTN recharge card with a 16-digit PIN, here’s the simple format:
Dial: *311*RechargePIN#
Example: If your MTN recharge PIN is 1234567890123456, just dial:
*311*1234567890123456# and press the call button.
This works for any amount—₦100, ₦200, ₦500, ₦1000, and even ₦5000. Yes, this is the official MTN recharge code that works nationwide.
2. How to Load MTN Card via MyMTN App
- Download the MyMTN App fom Play Store or App Store.
- .
- Log in using your MTN number.
- Tap “Recharge” > choose “Airtime” or “Data”.
- Select payment method: card, bank, or USSD.
- Enter the amount and confirm.
3. Bank USSD Recharge (No Card Needed)
Most Nigerian banks offer USSD shortcuts to recharge MTN without scratching a card. For example:
- Access Bank:
*901*Amount# - GTBank:
*737*Amount# - UBA:
*919*Amount#
Just replace “Amount” with what you want to load (e.g., *737*500#).
4. How to Load MTN Card via VTU (Virtual Top-Up)
You can also use VTU from:
- POS agents
- Online recharge sites like VTpass, Quickteller, or Opay
- USSD mobile banking apps
No scratch card needed. Just input your MTN number, choose the amount, and boom—airtime lands instantly.
Expert Tips: Avoid These Recharge Mistakes
1. Typing the Wrong Code
Double-check the MTN recharge code. It’s always *311*PIN#. Typing *311* or *311* won’t work for loading cards.
2. Card Already Used?
If you mistakenly load the same MTN recharge card twice, you’ll get an error. Always mark used cards or load them immediately.
3. Scratched the PIN Too Hard?
If the PIN is unreadable, call MTN Customer Care (300) and give them:
- Serial number on the card
- Date of purchase
- Amount
- Store or location where you bought it
4. Using the Wrong SIM
Double-check that you’re loading airtime on the right SIM especially if you have dual SIM phones.
Also Read
How to Load Glo Recharge Card in 2025
Code to Check MTN Data Balancee
MTN Recharge Code Summary Table
| Recharge Method | Code or Steps | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USSD (Card PIN) | *311*RechargePIN# |
Works on all phones |
| Bank USSD | e.g. *737*500# |
Requires linked bank account |
| MyMTN App | Use “Recharge” tab | Internet required |
| VTU or POS Recharge | Provide MTN number | No PIN needed |
Why Understanding MTN Recharge Codes Matters
According to MTN Nigeria’s official site reports, over 70 million users still recharge via scratch cards every month. With network errors, fake pins, or wrong inputs, that’s thousands of failed attempts daily. By mastering how to recharge MTN card the right way, you avoid:
- Wasting your airtime
- Repeating the same action over and over
- Calling customer care for basic stuff
The goal is simple: recharge once, recharge right.
Common Recharge Amounts & Codes
How to Load MTN Card 500
Just dial: *311*Your16DigitPIN#
This is the same code whether it’s ₦100 or ₦5000.
Final Thoughts: Recharge Without Stress
Loading your MTN card doesn’t have to feel like rocket science. As long as you remember the MTN card loading code *311*PIN# you’re good. And if you prefer the digital route, apps and bank codes make it even easier.
Now that you know all the ways to recharge MTN card, go ahead and recharge like a boss. Whether it’s for data, calls, or both you’ve got options.
FAQs: Code to Load MTN Card & More
What is the code to load MTN card?
The official code to load MTN card is *311*PIN#. It works for all card denominations.
How to recharge MTN using USSD?
Simply dial *311*RechargePIN# and hit send. That’s the full MTN recharge code.
How to load MTN card 500?
There’s no special trick. Use the same format: *311*16-digit PIN#.
What is the pin to load MTN card?
It’s the 16-digit number on the scratch card. Use it in this format: *311*PIN#.
How to load card on MTN using bank?
Use your bank’s USSD code. For example, GTBank users can dial *737*500# to load ₦500 on their MTN line.
What if my MTN recharge PIN is damaged?
Call MTN Customer Care at 300. Provide card serial number, amount, and date of purchase.
How to recharge MTN card in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, the most common method is *311*PIN#. You can also use bank USSD or the MyMTN app.
Can I recharge MTN without scratch cards?
Yes! Use Virtual Top-Up (VTU), mobile apps, or your bank’s USSD code.
Ready to Recharge?
Now that you know exactly how to load MTN card, go ahead and top up your airtime or data. No more guesswork, no more wasted cards.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who’s always texting “please send me card.”
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