What is a Credit Card Number?

Credit Cards are essential tools in today’s financial landscape, enabling instant high-ticket purchases. These cards, personalised with your name and numbers, offer savings through rewards, discounts, and cashback. When shopping online, you enter your Credit Card number—ever wondered what it is and what it means? Read on to learn more.

To understand a Credit Card number, we first need to examine its structure. A standard Credit Card usually has 15 to 16 digits, each serving a specific purpose in identifying and validating the card. While it may seem random, the number follows a specific pattern used by different credit networks and issuers. Here’s how a Credit Card number is structured:

Issuer Identification Number (IIN)

The first six digits, known as the Issuer Identification Number (IIN) or Bank Identification Number (BIN), identify the card issuer—whether it's a bank or a non-banking financial institution.

Credit Card Account Number

The digits from the 7th to the 15th positions represent the Credit Card account number. This unique number identifies your specific account within the issuing institution.

Check Digit

The last digit of the Credit Card number is the check digit, serving as a validation code. Calculated using mathematical algorithms, it helps verify the accuracy of the entire card number, making it difficult for fraudsters to generate valid Credit Card numbers.

Expiration Date

The expiration date indicates when the card will no longer be valid for transactions. Printed on the card in the format 'MM/YY,' the two digits before the slash show the month, while those after indicate the year. After this date, the card becomes inactive, and the cardholder must obtain a renewed card from the issuing institution to maintain uninterrupted service.

Card Verification Value (CVV)

Also known as the Card Verification Code (CVC), the CVV is a crucial security feature. This three or four-digit number is usually found on the back of the Credit Card, near the signature strip, or occasionally on the front above the embossed number.

The CVV acts as an additional layer of authentication, confirming that the cardholder has physical possession of the card during a transaction. Since it’s not stored on a magnetic stripe or chip, it’s more challenging for cybercriminals to steal the necessary information for fraudulent activities.

Understanding the Remaining Digits

The digits positioned between the Credit Card account number and the check digit are crucial for ensuring the uniqueness and validity of a Credit Card number. Generated by the issuing bank or financial institution, these digits serve several important purposes:

Card Type Identification

Certain digits in this section indicate the type of credit card issuer. Major card networks, such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, have specific identifiers that help merchants and payment processors recognise the card type. The logo of the relevant card network is typically embossed on the card itself.

Individual Account Variation

These digits also differentiate individual Credit Card accounts within the same bank or financial institution. This ensures that each Credit Card number is unique, preventing any overlap between accounts and enhancing security for cardholders.

Credit Cards come in various types, each tailored to meet specific needs and financial situations. The card network typically determines a Credit Card's classification, which is reflected in your Credit Card number. Here are the most common types of Credit Cards available in India:

Visa

Visa cards have an Issuer Identification Number (IIN) that starts with the digit ‘4.’ With extensive global acceptance, Visa cards are among the most widely recognised Credit Cards. As a Visa cardholder, you can benefit from various exclusive features, including rewards and cashback programmes.

MasterCard

MasterCard Credit Cards feature an IIN starting with the number ‘5.’ Like Visa, MasterCard enjoys broad acceptance worldwide and is known for offering its cardholders a diverse range of rewards and perks, making it a strong competitor in the market.

American Express

American Express cards, commonly known as Amex cards, have an IIN that begins with the digit ‘3.’ These cards are recognised for their premium features and exclusive rewards programmes. However, they are not as widely accepted as Visa and MasterCard, and associated fees tend to be higher.

Discover

Discover cards are identified by an IIN starting with ‘6.’ The US-based Discover Financial network provides unique benefits for its cardholders. In India, Discover has partnered with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to offer RuPay Credit Cards.

RuPay Credit Cards

RuPay Credit Cards also have an IIN starting with ‘6,’ thanks to the NPCI’s collaboration with Discover Financial. Initially accepted only within India, RuPay Credit Cards can now be used for international transactions wherever Discover, Diners Club, and JCB Cards are accepted.

At HDFC Bank, we offer an array of Visa, Master, Discover (Diner’s Club) and RuPay Credit Cards. Our association with the world’s most extensive credit networks, including our variety of Credit Card products designed for regular to privileged customers, means a Credit Card exists for everyone. All you need to do is check your eligibility for a Credit Card and send out your application.

Apply for HDFC Bank Credit Cards online to enjoy the benefits of a wholesome Credit Card.

*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. Credit Card approvals are at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank Limited. Credit Card approvals are subject to documentation and verification per the bank’s requirements. Interest rates are subject to change. Please check with your RM or closest bank branch for current interest rates.

*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.