The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.

As per the law, you need to be at least 18 years old in order to get a credit card. Unfortunately though, a lot of banks and some financial institutions are hesitant to offer cards to first time applicants. They are apprehensive about the lack of a credit report and also because teenagers and first time card holders tend to overspend than what they can afford. However, there is also some good news for first time applicants. There are other options to obtain your first credit card. You have to ensure you use it wisely so you can get better cards as you gain experience and create a good credit report.

Opting for student credit card as you first card is a wise choice to make. Not only are banks more than eager to provide students with their own credit cards, but they also offer slightly lower interest rates on them and most of the student cards come with some excellent promotional offers that can work in your favor. However, the key is to choose the right credit card company because though there are a few that offer some great features and benefits to students, there are a few other that treat them as easy preys. Hence, make a well informed choice.

Another easy way of getting your first credit card is by opting for it from the bank where you hold your checking or savings account. However, this will work in your favor only if you have been a good customer with no check returns. Maintaining a minimum balance consistently without emptying your account also will work in your favor if you apply for the card from the same bank.

There is another way as well to get your first credit card and create a good repayment history. There are many departmental stores and gas stations that offer credit cards to people. Consider applying for one of them. The chances of your application getting approved are high since they do not need any supporting documents. However, on the flip side, you will have to be prepared to pay more since the rate of interest on these cards are always on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Finally, you can also consider applying for a secured credit card. When you apply for these cards, you will have to make a small payment as a security deposit against the card. If you do not meet the repayment guidelines, the banks will use the money in the security deposit to clear off your debts.

Disclaimer: This editorial content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of the credit card issuer(s), and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer(s). Reasonable efforts are made to present accurate information, however all information is presented without warranty. Consult a card's issuing bank for the terms & conditions.
All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are actual as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.