what code to load mtn card

The USSD code to load an MTN recharge card in Nigeria is 311 followed by the PIN on your card, then #.
This works for both physical scratch cards (typically 16 digits) and some newer 17-digit vouchers, instantly crediting your airtime balance.

Step-by-Step Guide

Loading MTN airtime is straightforward and takes seconds from your phone dialer—here's how:

1. Scratch and reveal PIN : Gently scratch the silver panel on your MTN recharge card to uncover the full PIN (e.g., 1234567890123456).
2. Dial the code : Open your phone's dialer and enter *311*PIN# (e.g., *311*1234567890123456#).
3. Press call/send : Hit the call button to submit— you'll get a confirmation SMS like "You have successfully recharged N500. New balance is N500."
4. Verify balance : Dial *310# or *556# to check your new airtime.

Pro tip : Buy from trusted vendors to avoid fake PINs, which can lock after 3 failed tries.

Common Variations and Tips

• For ₦500 cards : Same code—no special format needed. Just *311*PIN#.

• 17-digit PINs : Works identically, e.g., *311*12345678901234567#.

• Errors like "Invalid PIN"? Double-check digits, ensure no spaces, and try again. Network glitches are rare but can happen during peak hours.

• Alternatives if code fails :
  • MyMTN App : Enter phone number, select amount, input PIN.
  • *On-Demand (904#) : Recharge directly from bank without a card.
  • ATMs/Banks : Select MTN, enter number and amount.

Why This Code in 2026?

As of March 2026, *311* remains MTN Nigeria's official recharge method across guides—stable despite promos like triple-value offers (now less common post-2023). Recent forum chatter on Nairaland and tech blogs confirms no changes, though digital vouchers are trending for speed.

"Dial 311 followed by the 17-digits in your recharge card, your card will be loaded successfully."

TL;DR : Scratch PIN → *311*PIN# → Call. Done—airtime loads instantly.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.