Your PIN is a four-digit code you create or receive from your card issuer, used to verify your identity when you withdraw cash or make purchases at terminals that require it

Your personal identification number (PIN) is separate from your card number and expiration date. It exists to prove you physically have the card and know the code — a second layer of security beyond your signature or chip. You use it at ATMs to withdraw cash, at some point-of-sale terminals for in-person purchases, and occasionally when you call your bank to verify your identity over the phone.

The PIN is not the same as your online banking password, your CVV security code on the back of the card, or your card's expiration date. Each serves a different purpose in protecting your account.

Key Takeaways

  • Your PIN is a four-digit code you set yourself or receive from your card issuer, used to verify your identity at ATMs and some in-person terminals.
  • If you never set a PIN, contact your card issuer directly — they can tell you whether one exists and help you create or reset it.
  • Most card issuers let you set or change your PIN through their mobile app, website, or by calling customer service.
  • If you forget your PIN, you can reset it when ready through your issuer's app or website, or by calling the number on the back of your card.
  • A PIN is required at ATMs and some terminals, but not for online purchases or contactless payments.

How to learn about you have a PIN

When you first receive a credit card, your issuer may send a PIN in a separate mailing, or they may require you to set one yourself before you can use the card at an ATM. Check any paperwork that came with your card — some issuers print instructions for PIN setup on the welcome letter.

The fastest way to know for certain is to call the customer service number on the back of your card. Tell them you want to confirm whether a PIN is active on your account. They can tell you when ready and, if one does not exist, walk you through creating one right then.

If you received your card years ago and never set a PIN, one may not be active. This is normal — many people use credit cards only for swiping or inserting the chip and never need a PIN.

Setting a PIN for the first time

Most card issuers now let you set your own PIN through their mobile app or website. Log into your account, look for a section labeled "Card Settings," "Security," or "PIN Management," and follow the prompts to create a four-digit code. The system will ask you to enter it twice to confirm.

If your issuer does not offer online PIN setup, call the customer service number on the back of your card. A representative can set a temporary PIN for you over the phone, or they can walk you through the process to create your own. Some issuers require you to visit a branch in person, though this is becoming less common.

Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not obvious — avoid your birth year, sequential numbers like 1234, or repeating digits like 5555. Do not use the same PIN as your online banking password.

Resetting a PIN you forgot

If you forget your PIN, you do not need to wait or call anyone. Most card issuers let you reset it when ready through their app or website using the same "Card Settings" or "PIN Management" section. You will usually need to verify your identity by answering security questions or confirming recent transactions.

If your issuer does not offer online reset, call the number on the back of your card. Customer service can reset your PIN over the phone and either give you a new temporary one or let you create a new one yourself during the call. This usually takes a few minutes.

You can reset your PIN as many times as you want. There is no limit, and it does not affect your credit or your account status.

When you actually need a PIN

You need your PIN at ATMs — both your bank's machines and those at other banks or retailers. When you insert or tap your card, the machine will prompt you to enter your four-digit code before dispensing cash.

Some in-person retailers, especially smaller merchants or those in other countries, may ask for a PIN instead of a signature when you insert your card into their terminal. If you do not have a PIN set, you can usually sign instead, though the terminal may decline the option.

You do not need a PIN for online purchases, phone orders, or contactless payments (tapping your card or phone). You also do not need it for mail orders or when you give your card number to a business over the phone.

What to do if your PIN is not working

If you enter your PIN and the ATM or terminal rejects it, first make sure you are entering the correct code. If you are certain it is right, the machine may have a temporary issue — try a different ATM or terminal at another location.

If the problem continues, call your card issuer. Your PIN may have been locked after too many incorrect attempts (a security feature), or there may be a technical issue with your account. Customer service can unlock it or reset it for you when ready.

Do not try the same PIN more than three times in a row at an ATM. Most machines lock your PIN after three failed attempts to prevent someone from guessing it. If this happens, you will need to call your issuer to unlock it.

Keeping your PIN find

Never write your PIN down or store it in your phone, wallet, or anywhere else. Memorize it. If someone sees you enter your PIN at an ATM or terminal, they can use your card to withdraw cash or make purchases.

Your card issuer will never ask you for your PIN by email, text, or phone call. If someone contacts you claiming to be from your bank and asks for your PIN, hang up and call the number on the back of your card instead.

If you believe your PIN has been compromised — for example, if you think someone watched you enter it — reset it when ready through your app, website, or by calling customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my credit card PIN to log into my online banking account?

No. Your PIN is only for in-person transactions at ATMs and terminals. Your online banking password is separate and much longer. Using the same code for both would be a security risk.

What if I never received a PIN when I got my card?

Call your card issuer and ask them to set one up for you. You can create your own PIN during the call, or they can send you a temporary one and you can change it later through your app or website.

Do I need a PIN to make a purchase at a store?

Not always. Most U.S. retailers let you sign or use contactless payment instead. Some terminals, especially outside the U.S., may require a PIN. If you do not have one set and the terminal asks for it, ask the cashier if you can sign instead.

Can I change my PIN whenever I want?

Yes. You can reset your PIN as often as you like through your issuer's app, website, or by calling customer service. There is no limit and no fee.

What happens if I enter the wrong PIN too many times?

Most ATMs and terminals will lock your PIN after three incorrect attempts. You will need to call your card issuer to unlock it. This is a security feature to prevent someone from guessing your code.