What Is a Credit Card Number and What Does It Mean?

Your credit card number might seem arbitrary and/or meaningless, but it actually reflects specific details about your card and account. The card number indicates the issuer, bank, and your personal account.

This article further explains what the numbers on your credit card mean, digit by digit. And, if you're not sure how to find your number, we can help you access that information, too.

Your credit card number

Most cards display a 16-digit number on the front (or 15 digits for Amex), though a few issuers place it on the back. This number is unique to your account – you'll also see it on your credit card statement every month.

What your credit card number means

A credit card number might seem like a random string of digits, but it actually holds a lot of important information, including your card network, issuer, and account number.

The first digit

The first digit reveals which network your card belongs to:

• Amex is 3
• Visa is 4
• Mastercard is 2 or 5

Businesses in other industries, like gas chains or airlines, use the remaining single digits. For example, if you see a 7 or 8, you might be looking at an airline credit card.

The first 6 digits

The first 6 digits of your card identify the issuing bank or financial institution. Issuers generally have multiple ID numbers, but here are some examples:

The middle digits

For Visas and Mastercards, the remaining string of numbers (except the last one) represents your account number. Amex cards work a little differently.

On a Visa or Mastercard, digits 5 through 11 represent the account number. For an Amex, digits 12 to 14 represent the card number within the account (vs. the number visible on the card itself).

Amex credit card numbers

Amex cards have another 3-digit code on the back of the card (after your 15-digit card number). It's a verification code that you'll be asked to provide if you contact Amex customer support.

Here's an example of what an American Express card looks like, with labels on the important numbers:

The final digit

The final digit is a validator, also called a check digit. This number, determined using an algorithm, is an important protection against fraud. When you make a purchase, the validator helps ensure that the credit card number isn't fake.

The expiry date

The expiry date is pretty straightforward. This is usually in mm/yy format, and it simply tells you how long your card remains valid. It expires on the last day of the listed month.

So, if your card says 04/28, you'll be able to use your card until April 1st, 2028. Major credit card issuers usually send out new cards in the weeks or months before your card expires.

The CVV

The last number you'll find is the CVV security code. Merchants ask for a 3-digit code during checkout to protect against fraud when shopping online.

If you have a Visa or Mastercard, the CVV is on the back of the card. Note that Amex CVVs are 4 digits and located on the front of the card, not to be confused with the 3-digit verification code on the back.

Other credit card numbers

Other credit card numbers you should know about include your PIN and virtual card number.

Credit card PIN

When you receive your credit card, you'll select a PIN that's unique to and only known by you. It's usually 4 digits, and it's the number you'll be asked to provide when you use your credit card at an ATM or over the phone.

Virtual credit card number

Some credit card issuers give you the option of using virtual credit cards for online shopping. With a virtual card, the issuer generates a one-time-use credit card number just for you to use with that transaction.

Since the number can only be used one time, and you're not entering your real credit card number, you protect yourself from fraud. Just note these aren't the same as digital wallets, where you store your real credit card number to use when shopping online.

Is your credit card number the same as your account number?

It's a common assumption, but credit card numbers and account numbers aren't the same.

Your account number will appear on your statement, and you won't be able to use it when trying to buy something. It always stays the same.

On the other hand, your credit card number may change over time if you switch cards or get a replacement.

FAQ

Where can I get my credit card number?

You can find your credit card number by checking the card itself, your credit card statement, or your credit card account. Depending on the card issuer, the numbers themselves might be blurred unless you click a button to reveal them.

What are the first 4 digits of a credit card?

The first 4 digits on a credit card are part of the 6-digit code that specifies the credit card issuer. The first digit shows which credit card network the card belongs to: Amex is 3, Visa is 4, and Mastercard is 2 or 5.

What are the 3 numbers on the back of a credit card called?

If you have an American Express credit card, the 3 numbers on the back of your card are for verification. They don't have a specific name, but they're a way to verify that it's you using the card when you're shopping online.

Can I find my 16 digit card number without my card?

If you don't have your card, log into your credit card account or look through paper statements for the information. You may or may not be able to call customer service and ask for the information, since the customer service agent might ask you to provide the number.

Is my credit card number on the back of the card?

No, your credit card number is the 15- or 16-digit string printed on the front of your Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. You might see 3 digits printed on the back of your Amex card. If so, this is the verification number.

Is my bank card number my Visa number?

Unless your bank card is a Visa-debit or Mastercard-debit card, it's not the same as your Visa number, even though that may also be issued by your bank. Each bank account and credit card you open has a unique number.

Where can I find my CIBC credit card number?

You can find your CIBC credit card number on the card itself or by logging in to your CIBC account. You can also review paper statements to find the number. If you've added the card to your digital wallet, you can also find the number there.

Where can I find my TD credit card number?

Your TD credit card number appears directly on the card itself. You can also find it on your monthly statement, through TD's mobile app, or by logging in to your online banking account. If you can't locate it, call TD customer support at 1-888-561-8861 for assistance.