You can sign up for a credit card online by filling out an application or by calling customer service over the phone. For some lenders, you can also see if you’re pre-approved before applying.
That may sound easy but getting a credit card after you apply often represents years of responsible credit use. That’s because credit card issuers will review your credit history to see if you meet the necessary requirements for the card before accepting or denying your application. They want to know that you’re able (and likely) to pay them back.
But even if you have little to no credit history, you still have options to sign up for a new card.

What are the Requirements to Sign Up for a Credit Card?
6 min read
Last Updated: October 3, 2025
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