British Chip+Pin cards in America

I'm aware that they've had the Chip and PIN technology on the other side of the pond for a while now, but what I need to know is; do our new chip and pin system cards work in America so I can use it or do I still need to sign for purchases whilst I'm in the States?

[Nottingham Nick]

I have never been asked for my PIN on Mastercard purchases in the US, in fact they very rarely even check the signature.

It is usually a case of handing the card over, it is swiped, then - as soon as the card is authorised - the cashier hands the card back and you are then asked to sign after the slip has printed.

Nick

During my last trip to orlando I was only ever asked for my sig when using my nationwide CC. Like Nottingham Nick, there rarely ever check the sig either!

However I would be careful about how many times you use the card in a day. When you go over a certain limit in the UK, transactions are referred for authorisation, but when abroad ther are automatically declined!

Same as Nick. I always use my CC in USA, even for small purchases, smallest amount was 99c.
I had a chip & pin last year and always had to sign. Most times you get your CC back without the signature being checked.
A couple of times I have been asked for ID at the checkout. UK photo driving licence is all that is required.

A few times the petrol station pumps asked for ZIP code when using credit cards. On these occasions I've just had to see the cashier before filling to reset the pump.

[mcmbenjamin]

Well many places take Mastro, like gas station, drug stores, some supermarkets, and others.

In the US, once the transaction is approved no one really looks at the signature at all. Normally I draw a boring line or if at a Wal-Mart (Asda) self-checkout I write very bad words.

The only card and pin system that are widely used are the Visa debit card network.

[mcmbenjamin]

Thanks for reminding me Tim. WalMart and others as for your ZIP code if you use AmEx but not Visa.

Also a bunch of places do not require or even ask for a signature if the purchase is under about $25.00, including Starbucks, fast food places, Dairy Queen, and most of the crap food places I eat.

[Nottingham Nick]

Originally posted by Tim
A few times the petrol station pumps asked for ZIP code when using credit cards.

Tim

When that happens, key '00000', it sometimes works ( I think it is intended for Canadian cards) but not always.

Nick

[Decker]

I just use 90210 and it accepts it! Added benefit - it amuses me every time. It's fun being a programmer. The same joke over and over and it still delights.

Used Maestro tons in Orlando last October...in Publix and got cash back and even in stores like A&F. They varied on whether they wanted PIN or signature on those touch screen things.

Hope that helps!

Most places I used my card in NYC had those touch screens that you sign with a stylus, and 3/4 of the time, most of my signature didn't come out but nothing was ever said. Never got asked to enter my pin number at all.

Originally posted by GatorBaiter
Used Maestro tons in Orlando last October...in Publix and got cash back and even in stores like A&F. They varied on whether they wanted PIN or signature on those touch screen things.

Hope that helps!

Slightly OT but Jacq's mention of Public reminded me that, while shopping at a Publix store in Kissimmee last May for - among other things - a couple of bottles of wine, the present Mrs Treelo was asked for ID[:o)] She explained to the dear old lady at the checkout that our youngest daughter (behind us in the queue with 2 grandkids) was 26, but still had to show her driving licence before she was allowed to buy the wine[ii] Priceless:D

Thanks for all your replies. In the main, good news. It means I won't have to remember another flippin' PIN!

Originally posted by Decker
I just use 90210 and it accepts it! Added benefit - it amuses me every time. It's fun being a programmer. The same joke over and over and it still delights.

Hey, I've done that online LOL - I don't like giving out personal stuff AT ALL via the pc, and especially when there's no need. Yep, 90210 works fine then![:p]

Originally posted by Treelo

Originally posted by GatorBaiter
Used Maestro tons in Orlando last October...in Publix and got cash back and even in stores like A&F. They varied on whether they wanted PIN or signature on those touch screen things.

Hope that helps!

Slightly OT but Jacq's mention of Public reminded me that, while shopping at a Publix store in Kissimmee last May for - among other things - a couple of bottles of wine, the present Mrs Treelo was asked for ID[:o)] She explained to the dear old lady at the checkout that our youngest daughter (behind us in the queue with 2 grandkids) was 26, but still had to show her driving licence before she was allowed to buy the wine[ii] Priceless:D

LOL Treelo. Mr cat has been known to ask if they want ID in similar circumstances - all he gets is weird looks....

I have had to enter my pin in Australia and Abu Dhabi (UAE)...