Stripe Test CVV: Test Card CVC Values and Failure Codes

Stripe accepts any 3-digit CVV with its universal test card 4242 4242 4242 4242 in test mode. Use any 4-digit CVC for the Amex test card 3782 822463 10005. No real card data is required, and any future expiry date works.

Which CVC values work on Stripe test cards?

In test mode, Stripe does not validate the security code against a real issuer, so the value you type is accepted as long as the length is correct.

• Visa, Mastercard, Discover test cards: any 3 digits, including 000 and 123.
• Amex test cards: any 4 digits, since American Express uses a 4-digit card identification number.
• Postal code and expiry: any future date and any valid-format ZIP code.

The default test card, 4242 4242 4242 4242, works with any CVC, any future expiry, and any billing postal code.

How do I simulate a failed CVV check in Stripe?

Use test card 4000 0000 0000 0127 with any CVC value. The charge is declined with the code incorrect_cvc, which is the response a real issuer sends when the security code does not match.

Other test cards cover common failure paths: 4000 0000 0000 0101 returns a generic card_declined, 4000 0000 0000 9995 returns insufficient_funds, and 4000 0000 0000 0069 returns expired_card. Test each one against your error handling before you go live.

What do cvc_check values mean?

Stripe reports the result of the security code check on the card or token object through the cvc_check attribute.

• pass: the issuer confirmed the code matches.
• fail: the issuer rejected the code.
• unavailable: the issuer could not perform the check.
• unchecked: no check was requested.

Your integration should decide whether a fail result blocks the charge or only flags it for manual review.

Can I use real card numbers in Stripe test mode?

No. Live card numbers are rejected by test mode, and PCI DSS prohibits using real cardholder data in non-production environments. Stripe's published test cards exist so you never need live data to exercise your checkout flow.

Does the test CVV affect the expiry or ZIP code?

No. Stripe validates only the format of the expiry and postal code in test mode, not their accuracy against an issuer. Any future expiry date and any correctly formatted ZIP code will pass.

Do test cards work with Stripe Elements and Payment Intents?

Yes. Test cards and test CVCs behave the same whether you collect details through the Stripe API, Elements, Checkout, or mobile SDKs. Switch to live keys and live cards only after your decline handling is verified.