How to change the PIN of a smart card ?

This procedure applies to smart cards using the Microsoft Base Smart Card Cryptographic Provider. Cards using their own proprietary driver must follow their manufacturer's procedure.
Windows Vista to Windows 11 / Server 2008 to 2022

Since Windows Vista, the PIN can be changed from the secure desktop (Ctrl+Alt+Del screen), which limits smart card connections to the logon program — protecting against eavesdropping. The screen can also allow smart card unblocking if the corresponding policy is enabled.

1

Press Ctrl+Alt+Del → choose Change a password

Ctrl+Alt+Del screen
2

Click Other credentials

Other credentials
3

Click the icon representing your smart card reader

Select smart card reader
4

Enter the old PIN, the new PIN, and press Enter

Enter PINs

Reference: msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb905527.aspx

Windows XP / Windows Server 2003

Windows XP does not support minidrivers by default. The Base CSP component must be installed first. If it has not been installed, your card likely uses a legacy CSP and not a minidriver.

Press Win+R and type pintool:

Pintool on Windows XP
PIN tool on Windows XP

Reference: WSCFDepl.doc

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