I read that machines in Italy use a 4-digit PIN number only. Has anyone encountered differently? Do I need to change my PIN before I go?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
a 4-digit PIN is correct. If you have a longer PIN or it has letters, you will need to modify. There was some concern if the 4-digit number begins with a zero but mine does and works just fine.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
2724 posts
Yes, you'll have to change, only 4 digits work. And make sure you haven't memorized the letters that go with the PIN - there aren't any letters on the Italy keypad. Make sure you tell your bank you're going. Ask about your daily ATM limit, if it's low, you'll only be able to take out a few Euros at a time.
Posted by
Wilmington, DE, USA
712 posts
Go to your bank and make sure you have a four digit pin in NUMBERS only.
My bank had a machine and changed it while I waited. I also told them I would be in Italy and the dates. A few years ago I did not know that they used numbers only and was in Switzerland. My husband tried different number combinations for my letters based on the telephone keypad. My card got rejected. When I got home my bank told me that after 2 or 3 failed attempts of entering a pin # they automatically freeze that card.
Posted by
Richardson, TX, USA
153 posts
Some (not all) cash machines don't like a leading zero, either.
Posted by
OP
Smithville, MO, USA
13 posts
Grazie molto everyone!
Posted by
Wichita
831 posts
There is no technical reason why a leading zero on a PIN would not work. Basicly if your PIN works out of network at home it will work in Italy. I have used a leading zero on a PIN in over 100 bankomats owned by at least 12 different banks and had no trouble.