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Getting Your First Credit Card

7 min read

Last Updated: October 3, 2025

Table of contents

Key Takeaways

You must be 18 or older to apply for your first credit card.
Secured credit cards or student credit cards may be the best first credit cards for many people.
Use your first credit card responsibly to build credit history.

Getting your first credit card is a big deal. Credit cards allow you to earn rewards on your everyday purchases, establish a good credit history, and enjoy more flexible spending. But finding the right card may feel difficult. If you don’t have a credit score, you may not qualify for the most exclusive credit card offers. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have options.

Credit card companies may offer cards geared toward beginners, like student or secured cards. These starter credit cards may help you learn good habits and qualify for the best credit cards and loan terms for you.

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Before you apply, make sure you understand how credit cards work and that you’re prepared to manage your credit responsibly.

Before you apply for your first credit card

Deciding if you're ready for your first credit card takes careful thought and reflection. Instead of rushing, take the time to reflect on your circumstances and ask yourself if you’re ready.

Are you eligible for a first credit card?

You must meet a few basic eligibility requirements to open your first credit card account.

First, you must be at least 18 to open a credit card account in your name. If you’re under 18, a parent, family member, or trusted friend may be able to add you as an authorized user on one of their credit accounts.

According to the Credit CARD Act of 2009, cardmembers under 21 must earn enough money independently from a job or regular allowance to cover credit card payments. Otherwise, they need a cosigner, such as a parent or guardian.

Credit card issuers generally want to make sure you’re financially secure enough to manage your credit card debt responsibly. You may have to provide proof of your employment or another income source as part of your credit card application. The card issuer may also request information about your monthly rent or mortgage payment to determine whether you have enough money left over to cover credit card bills.

Finally, you typically need a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to apply for a credit card.

Are you financially responsible?

As a first-time credit card user, it’s vital to learn good credit habits, like keeping your spending well below your credit limit, paying your bill on time each month, and repaying your balance in full whenever possible. Overspending may harm your credit score and leave you with credit card debt that’s difficult to manage.

If you already make strategic, thoughtful decisions about purchases—especially big, expensive ones—responsible practices may carry over into how you manage your credit cards. For example, if you usually stick to a budget and limit unnecessary purchases with your debit card, you may also be less likely to overspend on your credit card.

The skills you use to manage your starter card may also help you manage other financial tools, like personal loans and mortgages.

Do you understand the basics of credit cards?

Knowing how credit cards work may help you avoid some common pitfalls, like overspending or falling behind on payments.

A credit card gives you access to a line of credit that you may use as needed, up to your credit limit. Every month, you get a bill for the amount you owe. You have the option to pay your balance in full or make at least the required minimum payment and carry the rest over to the next month. Any balance you carry over typically accrues interest based on your credit card’s annual percentage rate (APR). That interest may build quickly, so it’s better to pay the full balance when you can.

Your card issuer usually reports your credit card transactions and payments to one or more major credit bureaus. Your credit card activity appears on your credit report and influences your credit score. A strong credit score helps you qualify for better rates on credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, and more.

Good first credit cards to consider

If you’re ready to take the leap and apply for your first credit card, it’s important to find the right fit. Secured and student credit cards are good options for building credit history and developing healthy financial habits.

Secured credit card

A secured credit card requires collateral—a refundable security deposit—at account opening. Your credit limit typically equals the deposit amount. The security deposit reduces the risk a credit card issuer takes on by lending to someone with a limited credit history, so these cards may be easier to qualify for than unsecured credit cards.

Your credit issuer may allow you to graduate to an unsecured card after you’ve consistently used your secured card responsibly.

Did you know?

The Discover it^® Secured Credit Card helps you build credit history with responsible use.¹ Plus, you’ll earn rewards on all your purchases with your card.

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Student credit card

Student credit cards may be among the best first credit card options for people enrolled in higher education, because credit card issuers design them specifically for this unique stage of life.

A student credit card might offer rewards for things you'd be buying anyway, like gas or groceries. For example, the Discover it^® Student Cash Back^® Credit Card lets you earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.

Choosing the best first-time credit card for you

After you’ve identified the right type of credit card for your circumstances, consider factors like features and fees to find the best credit card for you.

Interest rates: If you think you’ll carry a balance, you may want a credit card with a low introductory interest rate for the first several months after your account opening. Your balance accrues interest at the lower promotional rate until the introductory period ends. However, any credit card debt remaining after the introductory period will accrue interest at the standard interest rate, so be sure to budget for the change.
Rewards programs: A starter credit card may offer rewards on each eligible purchase. To maximize your earnings, consider a card that rewards the purchases you make every day, like your morning cup of coffee or your gas.
Credit card fees: If you're on a budget or adjusting to managing credit, you may not want a starter card that charges you a fee to keep your account active. A credit card with no annual fee may be a better fit. Other fees to consider include late payment penalties, balance transfer fees, and cash advance fees.
Reporting credit activity: Before applying for your first credit card, you may want to ensure the issuer reports your activity to a credit bureau. Otherwise, your good credit habits won’t help with building credit history.

The bottom line

The right starter credit card may help you begin your credit journey on the right foot. Look for a card with features that align with your priorities. When you have your card in hand, resist the urge to overspend. Instead, try to keep your balance low and stay on top of your payments. After steadily building your credit history, you may qualify for an even better card.

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