Instant Use Credit Cards

You could get a virtual credit card instantly

You could get a decision in as little as 90 seconds1 with our easy application process. Instantly access your credit and start using your new virtual card right away, if eligible.2

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Woman applying for an instant use credit card on her phone
Woman applying for an instant use credit card on her phone
Collage of 3 images: woman shopping online with her virtual credit card; another woman opens a cardboard box at home; a stack of 3 Discover® credit cards.

How do instant credit cards work?

An instant use credit card from Discover® isn’t a special kind of Discover credit card: it’s a virtual card number that applicants could receive when they’re approved for a new Discover® Card. That virtual card number connects to your new account, so you can shop and earn rewards right away.3

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Apply for a Discover cash back rewards card.
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You could be approved in as little as 90 seconds.1
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If you're eligible, you'll get a virtual credit card that you can use online even before your physical card arrives in the mail.2

Instant credit card FAQs

An "instant approval" credit card is not the same as an "instant use" credit card.

 

An instant approval credit card is a type of credit card application that can tell you in minutes if you've been approved or denied for a new credit card. For example, you can apply for a Discover® Card and get a decision in as little as 90 seconds.1

 

An instant use credit card is a credit card that lets a cardholder use their new account as soon as they get approved, so they don't have to wait to receive a physical card in the mail to start spending. This instant use is made possible with a virtual card number that the customer can enter online.

When you get instant credit, you'll find out your credit card number immediately. You can use your new credit card number right away to shop online.

Not all approved applicants will qualify for a virtual card number with their new Discover® Card account. If your application includes a balance transfer, requires you to submit additional information or documentation for application verification, or is subject to other factor as listed in the terms, you are ineligible for an instant credit card number.1

 

It's also important to note that every Discover Credit Card has a virtual card number option. The Discover it® Miles Card and the Discover it® Secured Card do not offer instant credit card numbers; if your application for one of these cards is approved, you'll have to wait for your physical card to arrive before you can use your account.

Maybe you need immediate credit for a large, unexpected expense, or you want a new card with cash back rewards for a big purchases you'd like to make right away. Instant credit is helpful when you don't have time to wait for a card to arrive in the mail.

Your Instant credit card comes with the same benefits as the physical card, such as no annual fee, cash back, and our $0 Fraud Liability Guarantee (which means you're never responsible for unauthorized purchases on your Discover Card account).3
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Benefits that don't just talk the talk

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$0 Fraud Liability Guarantee

You're never responsible for unauthorized purchases on your Discover Card.3

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Free Social Security number alerts

Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on the dark web.5 Sign up to activate this free benefit.

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Freeze your account

If you misplace your card, you can prevent new purchases and cash advances in seconds with the on/off switch on our mobile app and website.6

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FICO® Score and more

It's free and checking your score doesn't hurt your credit.7

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Real human customer service 24/7

You can talk to a real human on our customer service team any time.4

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Tap to pay

It's fast and easy to pay with your contactless Discover Card.8

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Learn more about instant credit cards

Are Instantly Approved Credit Cards the Same as Instant Use Credit Cards?

Learn whether instantly approved credit card are the same as instant use credit cards, and how to access your new credit cards for immediate use.

What Do You Need to Apply for a Credit Card?

Credit card approval depends on past credit history, income, and other financial factors. Here's what you need to apply for a credit card online.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

Learn how long it takes to get a credit card, including credit card approval times, how long it takes, to receive a card in the mail, and why there may be delays.

Instant Credit Articles
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