Your credit card PIN is a four-digit code that proves you own the card when you use it at an ATM or in person at a store
A personal identification number (PIN) is separate from your card number. Your card number is printed on the front and used for online purchases and phone orders. Your PIN is something only you should know — it's the password that lets you withdraw cash or make purchases when you physically hand over the card.
When you insert your card into an ATM or a store's payment terminal, the machine asks for your PIN. You type it in on a keypad. The bank's computer checks whether the PIN matches the one on file for that card. If it does, the transaction goes through. If you enter it wrong three times in a row, most machines lock you out temporarily to prevent someone from guessing your code.
Not every credit card has a PIN. Debit cards almost always do. Some credit cards come with one automatically; others don't. If your credit card doesn't have a PIN and you want one — for example, to withdraw cash at an ATM — you can request one from your card issuer.
Key Takeaways
- Your PIN is a four-digit code you create or receive from your bank, separate from your card number and expiration date.
- You use your PIN at ATMs to withdraw cash and at some store terminals to complete in-person purchases.
- Your PIN should be memorized and never written down, shared, or stored anywhere someone else can find it.
- If you forget your PIN, you can call your card issuer and request a new one, which usually arrives by mail within a few days.
- Debit cards require a PIN by default, but credit cards may not — you can request one if you need it.
How your PIN differs from your card number
Your card number is the 16-digit code on the front of your card. It identifies which account the card is linked to. You can share your card number with merchants for online shopping, phone orders, or recurring payments. Merchants see it every time you use the card.
Your PIN is private. Only you and your bank know it. You never type it into a website or give it to a cashier. You only enter it into a machine — an ATM or a payment terminal — that connects directly to your bank's system. If someone asks you for your PIN in person or over the phone, they are trying to steal from you. Your bank will never ask for it.
Your card also has a three-digit security code on the back (called a CVV or CVC). That code is for online purchases. It is not the same as your PIN.
Where and when you use your PIN
You use your PIN at ATMs to withdraw cash. Insert your card, select "withdrawal," enter the amount, type your PIN, and the machine dispenses the money. This works with both credit and debit cards, though credit card cash withdrawals usually come with a fee and start charging interest when ready.
Some stores let you use your PIN at the checkout terminal instead of signing a receipt or using contactless payment. This is called a PIN debit transaction. The store's terminal connects to your bank to verify the PIN. You might see this option on the screen after you insert or tap your card.
You do not use your PIN for online shopping, phone orders, or mail orders. You do not use it at gas pumps or vending machines. You do not give it to anyone — not a cashier, not customer service, not a friend borrowing your card.
How to create or change your PIN
When you first get a credit card, your bank may send you a temporary PIN in the mail, or you may set one yourself through your online account. If your card came with a temporary PIN, you should change it to something only you know before you use the card.
To set or change your PIN, log into your online banking account or call the customer service number on the back of your card. Most banks let you choose any four-digit combination. Avoid obvious choices like your birth year, your address, or repeating numbers (1111, 2222). Choose something you can remember without writing it down.
Some banks let you set your PIN through their mobile app. Others require a phone call. Check your bank's website or the welcome materials that came with your card to find out which method they use.
Why protecting your PIN matters
Your PIN is the main thing standing between a thief and your money. If someone gets your card and knows your PIN, they can withdraw cash or make purchases in your name. Unlike your card number, which merchants see regularly, your PIN should stay completely secret.
Cover the keypad with your hand when you type your PIN at an ATM or store. Don't let anyone stand close enough to see the numbers. If you're worried someone saw your PIN, call your bank right away and request a new one.
Never text, email, or write down your PIN. Don't store it in your phone's notes app or take a photo of it. Don't tell a family member or friend, even if they ask. If your card is lost or stolen, call your bank when ready — they can cancel the card and issue a new one with a new PIN.
What to do if you forget your PIN
If you forget your PIN, you can't use your card at an ATM or at a store terminal that requires one. But you're not locked out permanently. Call the customer service number on the back of your card or log into your online account and request a PIN reset.
Your bank will verify your identity by asking security questions or checking information only you would know. Once verified, they'll either let you set a new PIN right away over the phone, or they'll mail you a temporary one. A new PIN usually arrives within three to five business days.
While you wait for your new PIN, you can still use your card for online purchases, phone orders, and contactless payments at stores. You just won't be able to use ATMs or PIN-required terminals.
PIN requirements vary by card type and bank
Debit cards almost always come with a PIN because they're designed for ATM withdrawals and in-person purchases. Credit cards vary. Some issuers assign a PIN automatically; others don't. If your credit card didn't come with a PIN and you want one, call your bank and ask them to set one up.
Some banks let you set a PIN that's different from your debit card PIN. Others use the same PIN across all your cards. Check with your bank about their policy.
International cards sometimes have different PIN rules. If you're traveling or using a card issued outside the United States, ask your bank whether the PIN will work in other countries and whether you need to notify them before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my PIN for online shopping?
No. Your PIN is only for ATMs and in-person terminals. For online purchases, use your full card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. Never enter your PIN into a website.
What happens if I enter my PIN wrong three times?
Most ATMs and store terminals will lock you out temporarily — usually for 24 hours — to prevent someone from guessing your code. You'll have to try again the next day or contact your bank to unlock the card sooner.
Is my PIN the same as my online banking password?
No. Your online banking password is what you use to log into your bank's website or app. Your PIN is only for ATMs and payment terminals. They are completely separate and should never be the same.
Can I change my PIN as often as I want?
Yes. Most banks let you change your PIN whenever you want through your online account or by calling customer service. There's no limit to how often you can change it.
What should I do if I think someone knows my PIN?
Call your bank when ready and request a new PIN. They can issue a temporary one right away and mail you a permanent one. Your bank can also review recent transactions to see if anyone used your card without permission.