Track 2 Equal Data Parser
Track 2 equal data is a fixed structure of up to 55 characters carrying the PAN, the expiry, a service code and discretionary data. This parser breaks a string into those fields.
Use %1D as the field separator and %3D as the PAN delimiter, as they appear in raw track data.
How this tool works
The PAN runs from the start until the first %1D or %3D separator. If a %1D is present, the cardholder name follows it, terminated by another %1D. The expiry is then four digits in YYMMDD form, followed by a three digit service code, with discretionary data filling the remainder.
When to use it
- Read a raw track 2 string
- Extract the PAN and expiry from track data
- Verify the service code on a track record
- Learn the Track 2 field layout
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Track 2 record?
Up to 55 characters.
What is the expiry format in track data?
YYMMDD, for example 291210 for 29 December 2010.
What is the service code?
Three digits controlling permitted use, including international and local authorisation.
What is discretionary data?
Issuer-specific data after the service code. Its length varies by issuer.