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Length of PIN when using debit cards at a bank ATM in Europe

In the past I was told that only cards with 4-digit PIN's would be accepted by ATM's in Europe. I thus have a 4 digit PIN. Recently I advised someone to make sure she had a 4- digit PIN on her debit card. She could not believe that longer PINs would not be accepted now. In his money-travel-tips article Rick says, "A PIN of more than four digits may not be accepted." Does anyone have recent experience using more than 4-digit PINs bank at ATM machines? Thanks!

Posted by
9363 posts

Four digits is still the rule. The ATMs I used last month in Spain only allowed for four in the code.

Posted by
2916 posts

I have a 6-digit PIN on one of my cards, and it's always worked in France. But I do constantly see statements that non-4 digit PINs might not work. I always have had a 2d bank's card with me that has a 4-digit PIN.

Posted by
281 posts

I've experienced ONLY 4 digit pin numbers in France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, Turkey, England, Ireland and
more. Can't comment on 6 digit pit numbers.

Posted by
265 posts

All PINs in Europe are four digits. However AFAIK, newer ATMs are required to accept longer PINs, therefore some ATMs will probably work and others not.

Posted by
12 posts

My thanks to Robert, Paula and Christophe for you enlightening replies.