The present invention relates to a card reader for reading a card. The card reader includes a pair of rollers for transporting the card and a transmitter for transmitting light toward the transported card. A Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensor is provided for sensing light reflected from the transported card. The card reader may further include a planar support for supporting the transmitter and the CCD sensor, and a transparent cover for engaging with the planar support and for covering the transmitter and the CCD sensor.