Can I get credit card at age 17?
Matthew Harrington
Updated on January 28, 2026
A student credit card is a credit card that is offered to students at the college level. Any student beyond the age of 18 years is eligible to apply for the credit card as it does not have an income eligibility limit. These credit cards have lower interest rates and have a validity period of 5 years.
What kind of credit card can a 17 year old get?
Credit cards that allow authorized users under 18
| Card | Age limit | |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Flex℠ | 13+ | See offer |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | 15+ | See offer |
| Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express | 15+ | Apply now |
| Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card | None listed | Apply now |
Can I open a credit card at 16?
You can’t get your own credit card if you’re under the age of 18. But you can become an authorized user (more on that below). Even after you turn 18, the Credit CARD Act of 2009 states you’ll need to have either proof of independent income or a cosigner over the age of 21.
When can a teenager get a credit card?
18 years old
While the minimum age to qualify for a credit card is 18 years old, teens under 21 years old will have a harder time qualifying for their first credit card without a steady source of income.
Can a 18 year old apply for a credit card?
That way when the time comes to apply for a car loan or other financing, they may be able to do so without a co-signer. Teens can begin building credit at a young age by becoming authorized users on their parents’ credit cards. At 18, teens can apply for a credit card in their own name.
How can I Help my 17 year old get good credit?
All you would need to do is contact the credit card issuer and make the request. Once she is an authorized user, the issuer will send the account activity of that card to her credit reports as well as yours. As long as you always pay on time and in full, her credit scores will benefit.
Where can I get a credit card for a teenager?
WalletHub makes it easy to find the best credit card for teenagers. There are two types of credit cards for teens. On the one hand, you have those that 18 and 19 year olds can open in their own name (some offers are from WalletHub partners).
How old do you have to be to get a credit card in Canada?
Legally, no one can get a credit card on their own unless they’re at least 18 years old, or the age of majority in their province or territory of residence. Credit cards for minors under 18 are only permitted when they’re added an authorized user on someone else’s account — like their parents’.
