What number does an American Express card start with? This question often arises when individuals are trying to identify an American Express card or when they are curious about the card’s format. American Express cards are known for their distinctive starting numbers, which can help in verifying the card’s authenticity and understanding its type.
American Express cards typically start with the number “3.” This is a key feature that distinguishes them from other credit and debit cards. However, the number “3” is not the only digit that identifies an American Express card. The first six digits of the card number are crucial in determining the card’s type and issuing bank.
For instance, American Express cards that begin with “34” or “37” are issued by Visa International. These cards are known as “co-branded” cards, as they are issued by American Express but can be used wherever Visa is accepted. On the other hand, cards starting with “3” followed by “4” or “5” are issued by MasterCard, while those starting with “3” followed by “7” are issued by Discover.
The remaining digits of the American Express card number are unique to the cardholder and are used to identify the individual account. American Express cards usually have 15 digits, while Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards typically have 16 digits. It is important to note that the first digit “3” is always present in an American Express card, regardless of the issuing bank or card type.
When verifying an American Express card, it is essential to check the first six digits, as these digits provide valuable information about the card. For example, a card starting with “37” indicates that it is a Visa card issued by American Express, while a card starting with “345” indicates a MasterCard issued by American Express.
In conclusion, when someone asks, “What number does an American Express card start with?” the answer is “3.” However, it is crucial to remember that the first six digits of the card number are essential in identifying the card’s type and issuing bank. By understanding the format and starting digits of American Express cards, individuals can easily verify their cards and ensure they are using them correctly.
