Most City Bank accounts cannot be opened entirely online
City National Bank (the largest one, based in California) does not allow you to complete account opening from start to finish on their website. You can start the process online, but you will need to finish it in a branch or over the phone with a representative who verifies your identity. Some smaller banks called "City Bank" in other states may have different rules, so check with your specific bank first.
The reason for this restriction is federal law. Banks must verify your identity in real time using documents like a driver's license or passport. Online-only verification exists, but most traditional banks—including City National—still require either a video call with a banker or an in-person visit to complete the account opening.
If you want to open an account with City National and cannot visit a branch, calling their phone banking line is usually faster than starting online and then having to switch to another channel.
Key Takeaways
- City National Bank requires you to verify your identity in person or by video call; you cannot complete the entire process on their website.
- You can begin the process online, but the final step must happen at a branch, by phone, or through a video appointment.
- Federal law requires real-time identity verification, which is why banks cannot let you finish account opening without speaking to someone.
- If your local City National branch has limited hours or you cannot visit, ask about phone or video completion options when you call.
What you can do online before visiting or calling
City National's website lets you fill out basic information: your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. You can also choose which type of account you want (checking, savings, or both) and review the terms and fees. This part takes about five to ten minutes and saves time when you complete the account in person or by phone.
You cannot upload documents online or complete identity verification through the website. When you reach the identity verification step, the website will direct you to schedule a branch appointment, call a phone banker, or use a video appointment if your branch offers it.
Opening an account by phone or video call instead of in person
If you cannot visit a branch, call City National's main customer service line and ask to open an account. A representative will walk you through the process, ask you to read your ID number aloud or show it on camera, and verify your address. This process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will need your driver's license, passport, or state ID card ready.
Some City National branches now offer video appointments through their website. You schedule a time, and a banker calls you at that time using a video link. This method is faster than a phone call because the banker can see your ID on screen. Check whether your nearest branch offers video appointments by visiting their website or calling ahead.
After you complete the call or video appointment, the bank will mail you a debit card and checks (if you ordered them) within 5 to 10 business days. You can usually start using the account online or by phone before the card arrives.
Documents and information you will need
Bring or have ready one government-issued photo ID: a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will ask you to read the number aloud or show it on camera. You will also need to confirm your current address—the bank will ask if the address on your ID is still correct, or they will ask for a recent utility bill or lease if you have moved.
Have your Social Security number available. If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must complete identity verification separately, either together in a branch or each by phone or video.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport and ask about the bank's requirements for non-citizens. Some City National branches accept Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) instead of Social Security numbers, but policies vary by location.
Why City National does not offer full online account opening
The Customer Identification Program (CIP), a federal rule enforced by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, requires banks to verify your identity in real time using documents. "Real time" means a banker must see your ID and confirm it matches you during the conversation or video call, not after you upload a photo.
City National, as a traditional bank with physical branches, has chosen to meet this requirement through in-person visits, phone calls, or video appointments rather than investing in advanced online identity verification technology. Smaller online-only banks often use third-party verification services that can confirm your identity through your phone or computer, but City National has not adopted this approach.
This is not a limitation unique to City National. Most regional and national banks with branch networks still require phone or in-person verification to open accounts.
Alternatives if you need to open an account entirely online
If you need to open an account without visiting a branch or speaking to anyone by phone, you will need to use an online-only bank or a bank that uses remote identity verification. Banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and some credit unions allow you to complete the entire process on their website or app using video verification or other online methods.
These banks typically have no physical branches, so they cannot offer in-person services like cash deposits or check cashing. However, they often have no monthly fees and reimburse ATM charges nationwide. If you need a checking account quickly and cannot visit City National, this may be a faster option.
If you want to stay with City National specifically, the fastest route is to call their phone banking line rather than starting online. A representative can often open your account during that same call if you have your ID ready.
What happens after you complete the account opening
Once the bank verifies your identity and you sign the account agreement (either in person, by phone, or by video), your account is officially open. You can log into online banking and mobile banking when ready, even before your debit card arrives. This means you can set up direct deposit, transfer money, and pay bills right away.
Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. Checks, if you ordered them, take longer—usually 7 to 14 days. You can request a temporary debit card number from the bank if you need to make purchases before the physical card arrives.
If you opened the account by phone or video, the bank will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up online banking if you have not already done so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a City Bank account if I do not have a government ID?
City National requires a government-issued photo ID to open an account. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can use a state ID card. If you have none of these, contact your local City National branch to ask about alternative verification methods, though most banks will not open accounts without one.
How long does it take to open a City Bank account by phone?
A phone call usually takes 15 to 20 minutes from start to finish. You will need your ID ready and should have about 20 minutes of uninterrupted time. After the call, the account is open when ready, but your debit card will arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days.
Do I need to deposit money to open a City Bank account?
City National does not require an opening deposit for most checking or savings accounts. However, some account types may have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees. Ask the banker about fee structures when you open the account so you know what balance to maintain.
Can I open a joint account online with City Bank?
No. Both account holders must complete identity verification separately, either together in a branch or each by phone or video. You cannot complete a joint account opening entirely online.
What if I started the online process but did not finish it?
Your incomplete process will usually stay in the system for 30 days. You can call City National and ask a representative to pull up your process and finish it over the phone, or you can visit a branch and complete it in person. Starting online does not lock you into finishing online.