What is the size of a credit card?
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If you've ever tried to squeeze a card into a wallet slot or wondered if a metal card would still swipe at checkout, you're not alone. Credit cards might look simple, but their size is standardized across the world. So, what is the size of a credit card, and why does it matter?
Standard credit card dimensions
Across the globe, most credit cards follow the same dimensions set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Specifically, they adhere to the ISO/IEC 7810 ID-1 standard.
The standard size of a credit card is:
Width: 85.60 mm (3.37 inches)
Height: 53.98 mm (2.13 inches)
Thickness: 0.76 mm (0.03 inches)
This means your credit card is roughly the size of a business card, designed to fit seamlessly into wallets, ATMs, and card readers.
Be a financially smart family!
What about the weight and feel?
Most cards weigh between 5 and 10 grams. Cards made from metal or hybrid materials may feel heavier and sturdier, but they still follow the same size specifications to remain compatible with global payment systems.
Why the size of a credit card matters
Credit cards aren’t sized this way by accident. The uniformity has several practical purposes:
1. Universal compatibility
ATMs, card readers, and mobile payment tools are all built to accept this one standard size. This makes it easy to swipe, insert, or tap your card no matter where you are.
2. Easy portability
Wallets and phone cases with card slots are all built around this standard. You can be sure your card fits without bulging or getting stuck.
3. Design and security
Card printers and embossers are standardized for this size, and the layout—chip placement, magnetic stripe, and security features—depend on it.
Other card sizes to know
While ID-1 is the most common, a few other sizes exist in the ISO/IEC family:
ID-000: 25 mm × 15 mm — used for SIM cards
ID-1.5 and ID-2: Rare, sometimes used for visas or government IDs
These aren’t used for financial cards but can be helpful to know when dealing with other card types.
Can credit card size vary by country or issuer?
Not really. Banks and credit card companies across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and most of Asia stick to ISO standards. However, some cards may differ in texture, design, or material. Metal cards, for instance, feel more premium, but they’re still the same size under the hood.
Credit card size vs. debit and ID cards
Good news: Debit cards and most ID cards (like driver's licenses) are also ID-1 standard size. That’s why they all fit in the same slot in your wallet.
💡 Tip: Greenlight offers customizable debit cards for kids—kids can choose their own design or image for their debit card while they learn to save and spend wisely with parental oversight.
A quick comparison
Card Type | Dimensions (mm) | Fits in Wallet? |
|---|---|---|
Credit card | 85.60 x 53.98 x 0.76 | Yes |
Debit card | 85.60 x 53.98 x 0.76 | Yes |
Gift card | 85.60 x 53.98 x 0.76 | Yes |
SIM card (ID-000) | 25.00 x 15.00 | No |
Built for life on the go
That small rectangle in your wallet? It’s designed for your everyday life. Whether you’re swiping at the store, tapping at a terminal, or sliding it into your phone case, credit cards are built to fit—and work—everywhere. The standard size isn’t just for looks. It’s for ease, consistency, and making sure your card keeps up with you.
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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.
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