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In short: no, it is not. Opening a debit card together with a checking account is not always obligatory, but it is a widespread and practical choice. Most checking accounts come with a debit card that you can use at ATMs or retailers. When you open a checking account, you will either be issued a debit card automatically or upon request.
A debit card provides convenient access to the funds in your checking account, allows you to make purchases at various retail outlets, both in stores and online, and to withdraw cash from ATMs. Having a debit card simplifies everyday transactions and eliminates the need to carry cash. Debit card transactions are typically faster and more secure than paying by check.
If, for personal reasons, you prefer not to have a debit card linked to your checking account, you can discuss this with your bank.
Keep in mind that having a debit card enhances the versatility and security of your checking account, making it a valuable addition for most people.
If you would like to have a debit card without opening a checking account, that's possible too. Prepaid debit cards don't require a bank account and they are not linked to one. Instead, you get a prepaid card and load it with cash via one of the several deposit methods. Prepaid cards can be used like regular debit cards. When the card balance hits zero, you will need to reload the card to use it again.
Unlike debit cards, prepaid cards cannot be overdrawn because there is no bank account linked to them.
