What Credit Cards Can You Get at Age 17?

Many young individuals wonder about their eligibility for credit cards. While direct access to a primary credit card account is restricted for 17-year-olds due to legal frameworks, specific avenues allow them to begin building a credit history. Understanding these pathways and requirements is important for navigating credit access and preparing for financial independence.

The Legal Age for Credit Card Accounts

In the United States, individuals must be at least 18 years old to apply for their own primary credit card account. This age requirement stems from the Credit CARD Act of 2009, a federal law that changed the ability of consumers under 21 to obtain credit cards independently.

The Credit CARD Act mandates that applicants under 21 must demonstrate an independent income sufficient to repay any incurred debt. They cannot rely on household income or a parent’s income unless they have direct access to those funds. While the law allows for a co-signer over 21 to assume joint liability, most major credit card issuers rarely offer this option for primary accounts. This independent income requirement makes it challenging for most 17-year-olds to qualify for their own credit card.

Becoming an Authorized User

A common method for a 17-year-old to gain initial access to a credit card is by becoming an authorized user on another person’s existing account, typically a parent or guardian’s. An authorized user receives a card in their name and can make purchases, but they are not legally responsible for the debt. The primary cardholder retains full legal responsibility for all charges and payments.

The process involves the primary cardholder contacting their credit card issuer to add the individual. If the issuer reports authorized user activity to major credit bureaus, this can help the 17-year-old begin building a credit history. Responsible account management, such as consistent on-time payments and low credit utilization by the primary cardholder, can positively influence the authorized user’s credit profile. However, negative actions, like missed payments or high balances, by the primary cardholder can adversely affect the authorized user’s credit history.

Steps for Obtaining a Credit Card at Age 18

Once an individual turns 18, they become legally eligible to apply for their own primary credit card, subject to the independent income requirement. Card issuers assess an applicant’s ability to pay, meaning the 18-year-old must demonstrate sufficient personal income to make minimum payments. This income can include wages from a job, earnings from self-employment, regular allowances, or leftover funds from scholarships and grants after tuition is paid.

Several types of credit cards are available to young adults with limited or no credit history. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit, which often serves as the credit limit. This deposit minimizes risk for the issuer, making these cards easier to obtain and effective for building credit through consistent, on-time payments.

Student credit cards are designed for those enrolled in higher education, often featuring flexible approval criteria and student-specific benefits. Retail store credit cards, usable at specific merchants, may also be easier to acquire for new credit users, though they often come with higher interest rates.

The application process for these cards involves providing personal details, a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, and information about one’s income and employment. Applications can be submitted online or in person. While approval is not guaranteed simply by turning 18, demonstrating a steady independent income and understanding the features of cards designed for new credit users can improve the chances of success.