Do Credit Cards Have PINs? How To Protect Your Money in 2024

When you use your credit card, you generally don’t need a PIN (personal identification number) to make a purchase. But there are a few instances where you might need a PIN for your credit card, such as getting a cash advance.

We’ll let you know which transactions require a PIN, why it’s needed, how to check if your card already has a PIN, and how to request a new PIN if you need one.

Let’s dive right in!

What Is a Credit Card PIN?

A PIN is a 4-digit code that adds another layer of security to transactions — in addition to other features like your EMV chip, CVV code, and signature. Although it’s common to use a PIN when you use your debit card, most transactions using a credit card don’t require a PIN.

Generally, you won’t need a PIN for most purchases made in the U.S. You can usually just slide, insert, or tap your card. Online purchases also won’t require a PIN, but usually ask you to provide the 3- or 4-digit CVV to confirm your identity.

When You Might Need a Credit Card PIN

There are 2 common reasons why a PIN might be required for your credit card:

1. When traveling internationally, automated stations may require a PIN (such as at a train station)
2. To take out a cash advance using your credit card

Can You Get a Cash Advance Without a PIN?

If you’re wondering if you can use your credit card at an ATM to get cash — in short, no. You need a PIN to take out a cash advance using your credit card.

You’ll either need to go to a branch of your bank and present the credit card along with your photo ID or go to a company like Western Union or MoneyGram to get your cash advance.

How To Find a Credit Card PIN

If you were provided a PIN when you received your card, check the correspondence from your bank. Your PIN could be included in this information. Depending on your bank, you may also be able to see your PIN in your online account portal.

If you don’t know your credit card’s PIN, you’ll have to reach out to the issuing bank, such as Chase or American Express. This will be the case if you received a PIN and lost it or never set up one.

Common credit card issuer customer service phone numbers include:

How To Set Up Your Credit Card’s PIN

You can request your PIN by calling the number listed on the back of your card. PINs usually can’t be provided over the phone but will be mailed to the address on file. This means that you’ll generally need to call the bank at least a week or 2 in advance of when you need your PIN in order to make sure that it has time to arrive in the mail.

Depending on your card issuer, you may also be able to receive the PIN via text or email.

How To Change Your Credit Card’s PIN

If you’ve lost or forgotten your card’s PIN, you’ll need to request a new one from your bank. This can be done via the same process we’ve noted above.

But what if the number is just something hard to remember and you want to change it? Some cards let you pick your PIN, but generally, PINs are automatically generated by your card issuer.

Which Credit Cards Offer a PIN?

Even if you don’t know your card’s PIN, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get one. Sometimes when you are setting up your card, you are given the option to set up a PIN or decline.

Most cards come with “chip-and-PIN” technology. For example, popular cards, such as the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®, Citi Strata Premier℠ Card, and The Platinum Card^® from American Express all offer chip-and-PIN technology. You may get a PIN upon request or automatically upon card issuance.

Alternatives if Your Card Doesn’t Offer a Credit Card PIN

If you’re traveling internationally and a PIN is required, look for a cashier instead. Automated kiosks may not be an option with your credit card if you don’t have a PIN.

If you’re hoping to get a cash advance using your credit card, try some of the strategies we’ve listed above.

Final Thoughts

While credit card PINs aren’t common in the U.S., there are a couple of situations in which you might need one, namely, when getting a cash advance using your credit card or with some purchases abroad.

Whether your card came with a PIN and you don’t remember, or you need to set up a new PIN, you’ll need to reach out to your credit card issuer to request this information.