Can u get a credit card at 17 is a question many U.S. families are asking as teens look to build credit earlier. As of today, federal law and issuer policies clearly define when and how a 17-year-old can legally access credit, and the rules have not changed.
The Legal Age Rule in the United States
In the United States, a person must be 18 years old to enter a binding credit card agreement on their own. Federal consumer protection laws require cardholders to be legal adults who can assume full financial responsibility.
Because of this requirement, a 17-year-old cannot open a credit card independently. Applications submitted without an adult account holder are denied by all major U.S. banks.
Ways a 17-Year-Old Can Use a Credit Card Legally
Although independent credit cards are not available at 17, teens still have a legal path to access credit cards under adult supervision.
Authorized User Option
The most common solution is becoming an authorized user on a parent or guardian’s credit card.
This arrangement allows:
- A parent to add a teen to an existing account
- The teen to receive a card in their own name
- The adult to remain fully responsible for all charges
Most major U.S. card issuers allow authorized users under 18. Some set a minimum age, while others do not.
Does Authorized User Status Build Credit?
In many cases, yes. When the card issuer reports authorized user activity to credit bureaus, the teen’s credit profile may reflect:
- Length of account history
- On-time payment record
- Credit limit and usage
However, reporting policies differ by issuer, so parents should confirm reporting practices before adding a teen.
Joint Credit Cards Are Not Available
Joint credit card accounts are largely discontinued in the U.S. Teens under 18 cannot be joint account holders because they cannot legally share debt responsibility.
Prepaid Cards Are Not Credit Cards
Prepaid cards are often mistaken for credit cards, but they work differently.
Prepaid cards:
- Use funds loaded in advance
- Do not involve borrowing
- Do not report to credit bureaus
- Are allowed for minors with parental approval
While prepaid cards help with budgeting, they do not help build credit.
What Changes When a Teen Turns 18
At age 18, a person becomes eligible to apply for credit cards independently. Common starter options include:
- Student credit cards
- Secured credit cards
- Entry-level unsecured cards
Income or a co-signer may still be required, but age is no longer a barrier.
Why Credit Card Companies Enforce Age Limits
Credit cards involve borrowing money and repaying it with interest. Federal law requires cardholders to:
- Understand repayment obligations
- Accept liability for fees and penalties
- Be legally responsible for debt
Minors cannot meet these standards without adult oversight.
Risks Parents Should Be Aware Of
Adding a teen as an authorized user carries responsibility.
Possible risks include:
- Overspending
- Missed payments affecting the adult’s credit
- Misunderstanding interest charges
Setting spending limits and clear rules helps prevent issues.
Benefits of Early Credit Exposure
When handled responsibly, early exposure can help teens:
- Learn real-world money management
- Understand billing cycles
- Build a longer credit history
Many adults with strong credit began as authorized users in their teenage years.
Common Misunderstandings About Teen Credit Cards
- Myth: A job allows a 17-year-old to get a credit card
Fact: Age requirements still apply - Myth: Debit cards build credit
Fact: Debit card use is not reported to credit bureaus - Myth: All authorized users build credit
Fact: Credit builds only if the issuer reports the activity
Key Points for U.S. Families
- A 17-year-old cannot open a credit card alone
- Authorized user status is the only credit card option
- Prepaid cards do not build credit
- Independent card access begins at 18
Understanding these rules helps families make informed financial decisions and avoid application denials.
Have experience helping a teen manage credit or questions about authorized user cards? Share your thoughts and stay updated as credit rules continue to evolve.