What is a card number on UK debit and credit cards? (2024)

FAQs

What is a card number on UK debit and credit cards? ›

The long number on the front or back of your debit or credit card is unique to your card and account. However, it's different from your account number. Debit and credit card numbers are usually 16 digits long, broken up into four groups of four numbers.

This is the long number on the front of your card. It's usually 16-19 digits long and is unique to you.

You can't tell whether a card is associated with a debit or credit account based on numbers alone. Still, you can usually find that out by looking at the card as most of them have a “credit” or “debit” label somewhere on the card.

The card number is the unique 16-digit number displayed on either the front or back of debit cards. You can find the cardholder's name on the front or back of your card.

A debit card is linked to your bank account. It's usually your money that you're spending or withdrawing, unless you have an overdraft, which is a type of credit linked to your account. A credit card is a standalone account giving you access to a pre-agreed credit limit.

What is the card number on a debit and credit card? The long number on the front or back of your debit or credit card is unique to your card and account. However, it's different from your account number. Debit and credit card numbers are usually 16 digits long, broken up into four groups of four numbers.

The front of a debit card usually has a 16-digit Card Number, an 8-digit Account Number, a 6-digit sort code, the cardholder's name and the card's expiry date.

You can usually find your debit card number printed or embossed on the front of the card, commonly around the center. Other essential card info is the: Expiration date—includes a month and a year, usually printed below the card number.

Your 16-digit card number is usually printed on the front of your debit card. It is a long number that can be found embossed or printed on the card, usually in the middle. You can also find your card number on your bank account statements or transaction history if you have access to those documents online.

One of the most important parts of a debit card and often referred to as 'the long card number' (and also known as a Permanent Account Number or PAN), the card number consists of 16 digits in sections of four, for example, 1234 5678 9876 5432 and is required when making a purchase over the phone or online.

How many digits is an account number in the UK? ›

In the UK, most bank account numbers typically contain eight digits. Some UK banks do have shorter account numbers, but here the number '0' can be added in front to reach eight digits.

A virtual credit card is a temporary credit card number that you can use when shopping online. It does not exist as a physical card and you cannot use it to withdraw cash at an ATM. Just like a standard credit card, your virtual card will have a randomly generated 16-digit card number, a CVV code and an expiry date.

Account numbers are eight digits long and sort codes are six digits long. You may be able to find your account number and sort code printed on your debit card, but not all debit cards will show these details. Account numbers and sort codes are used by financial institutions in the UK to facilitate money transfers.

All major credit and debit providers are accepted across the UK, especially Visa and MasterCard. American Express and Diners Club may not be accepted in all restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. In general though,, you'll be able to use your card in most places.

A debit card lets you spend the money that's available in your account. It helps you stay in control because your account balance is updated almost instantly with every payment you make. A credit card lets you borrow money to spend, up to an agreed limit, and pay it back later.

It allows you access to the money in your bank account. This includes making purchases from your account or withdrawing cash from an ATM (cash machine). An alternative to a debit card would be to physically go to your bank and withdraw cash.

There are several ways to retrieve your debit card number without the physical card, including using online or mobile banking, contacting your bank's customer service, accessing your account statements or transaction history, or visiting your bank's local branch.

Windcave eCommerce test details

We recommend using the test card 4111 1111 1111 1111 for Visa, 5431 1111 1111 1111 for MasterCard, 3711 1111 1111 114 for Amex, and 3600 0000 0000 08 for Diners. These can be used with any expiry date, 3 digit (4 digit for Amex) CVC and are suitable only for Windcave test accounts.

Besides your physical card, you can usually find your card number on billing statements and in your profile online or in your bank's mobile app. Your credit card account number by itself usually isn't available for you to view. This helps protect your information.