Your credit card PIN is a four-digit code that proves you are the cardholder when you use your card in person

A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a secret four-digit code linked to your credit card account. You enter it at a checkout terminal or ATM to verify that you own the card. Without the correct PIN, someone else cannot use your card even if they have the physical card in their hands.

Your PIN is different from your card's CVV (the three-digit security code on the back), which you use for online purchases. The PIN protects you during in-person transactions, while the CVV protects online transactions. Banks issue a default PIN when you set up your card, but you can change it to something only you know.

Key Takeaways

  • Your PIN is a four-digit code you enter at a terminal or ATM to prove you own the card during in-person purchases.
  • Your bank sends you a default PIN when you set up your card, usually in a separate mailing or through your online banking portal.
  • You can change your PIN to a number you choose by calling your bank's customer service line or using your online banking account.
  • If you forget your PIN, you can reset it through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling the number on the back of your card.
  • Never share your PIN with anyone, including bank employees or customer service representatives — your bank will never ask for it.

How to find your PIN if you just received your card

When you set up a new credit card, your bank assigns you a temporary PIN. This PIN arrives in one of two ways: either printed on a separate piece of paper that comes with your card in the mail, or available when ready in your online banking portal or mobile app.

Check the envelope your card came in first — banks often include a small card or letter with your PIN printed on it. If you do not see it, log into your online banking account or open your bank's mobile app and look for a section labeled "Card Services," "Manage Cards," or "PIN." Many banks let you view your PIN directly there without calling.

If your PIN is not in the mail and not in your online account, call the customer service number on the back of your card. Have your card and a form of ID ready. The representative will verify your identity and either tell you your PIN or send you a new one by mail.

How to change your PIN to something you choose

Your bank's default PIN is random and hard to remember. You can change it to any four-digit number you want — just not your birth year, anniversary, or other numbers someone could guess from your personal information.

Most banks let you change your PIN through your online banking portal or mobile app. Log in, find the card management section, and look for "Change PIN" or "Reset PIN." Follow the prompts, enter your current PIN, then enter your new four-digit code twice to confirm it. The change takes effect when ready.

If your bank does not offer PIN changes online, call the number on the back of your card. A representative will verify your identity, confirm your current PIN, and help you set a new one over the phone. Write down your new PIN somewhere safe but separate from your card — never write it on the card itself.

What to do if you forget your PIN

If you cannot remember your PIN before you need to use it, you have several options. The fastest is to reset it through your online banking account or mobile app using the same steps you would use to change it — you will need to verify your identity, but you do not need to know your old PIN.

If you are at a checkout terminal and do not know your PIN, you can ask to pay a different way: swipe or insert your card without entering a PIN, or use a contactless payment method like your phone. Most terminals will accept one of these alternatives. Do not guess your PIN multiple times — most systems lock your card temporarily after three wrong attempts to protect against theft.

If you are at an ATM and forget your PIN, step away and reset it through your bank's website or app before you try again. If your card is locked after wrong attempts, call your bank to unlock it.

Why your PIN is different from your CVV

Your credit card has two security codes, and they serve different purposes. Your PIN is for in-person transactions at checkout terminals and ATMs. Your CVV (Card Verification Value) is the three-digit number on the back of your card, used for online and phone purchases.

The PIN proves you have the physical card in your hand right now. The CVV proves you have seen the card — it is printed on the card itself but not stored in the card's magnetic stripe or chip, so a thief who steals your card number alone cannot use it online. Never share your CVV with anyone, just as you would never share your PIN.

How to protect your PIN from theft

Your PIN is the main thing standing between a thief and your money if they steal your physical card. Protect it the same way you would protect a password to your bank account.

Cover the keypad with your hand or body when you enter your PIN at a checkout terminal or ATM — this prevents cameras or people standing nearby from seeing the numbers. Never tell anyone your PIN, not even a family member or a bank employee. Your bank will never ask for your PIN in an email, text, or phone call. If someone claiming to be from your bank asks for it, hang up and call the number on the back of your card instead.

If you think someone knows your PIN, change it when ready through your online banking account or by calling your bank. If your card is lost or stolen, call your bank right away to report it and request a new card with a new PIN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my credit card without entering a PIN?

Yes. At most checkout terminals, you can swipe or insert your card and sign instead of entering a PIN, or use contactless payment with your phone. PIN entry is required at ATMs and some retailers, but you always have alternatives at a regular store checkout.

What happens if I enter my PIN wrong three times?

Your card will be temporarily locked to prevent someone from guessing your PIN. Call your bank to unlock it, or wait the time period your bank specifies (usually 24 hours). You will need to verify your identity before the bank unlocks the card.

Is my PIN the same as my online banking password?

No. Your PIN is only for in-person card use. Your online banking password is separate and protects your account when you log in on a computer or phone. Keep both secret and never use the same code for both.

Can I set my PIN to be the same as my debit card PIN?

Yes, you can choose any four-digit number you want for your credit card PIN, including one that matches another card. However, using different PINs for different cards adds a layer of security in case one card is compromised.

What if my bank sends me a PIN I do not like?

You can change it when ready to any four-digit number you prefer. Use your online banking account, mobile app, or call your bank's customer service line. The change takes effect right away, and you can use your new PIN at the next checkout.