Building credit from scratch can be intimidating. Whether you’re a student, a new immigrant, or just entering the world of credit, the right credit card can help you get started on the right foot. In this guide, we’ll cover the best beginner credit cards with no credit history required, what to look for, and how to apply.
Why It’s Hard to Get a Credit Card with No Credit
Most credit card companies rely on your credit history to assess risk. Without any credit score or report, they have no way to determine if you’re a responsible borrower. That’s why:
- Applications often get denied
- Interest rates are higher
- Credit limits are lower
The good news is that many issuers now offer credit cards specifically for beginners with no credit.
What to Look for in a Beginner Credit Card
When you have no credit, these features matter most:
- No annual fees – Avoid paying just to own the card
- Reporting to all 3 bureaus – Helps you build credit faster
- Low or no deposit (for secured cards)
- Upgrade path – Ability to move to a better card later
- Basic rewards (optional) – Some starter cards offer cash back
Best Credit Cards for Beginners with No Credit (2025)
Here’s a quick comparison of the top-rated cards for beginners:
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Secured? | Rewards | Credit Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discover it® Secured | $0 | Yes | 2% cash back | None | Free FICO score, upgrade eligible |
| Capital One Platinum Sec. | $0 | Yes | None | None | Flexible deposit requirement |
| Petal® 1 Visa® | $0 | No | 2%-10% cash back | None | Uses bank data to approve |
| Chime Credit Builder | $0 | Yes | None | None | No credit check, no interest |
| OpenSky® Secured Visa® | $35 | Yes | None | None | No credit check, manual payments |
How to Apply and Get Approved
Getting approved with no credit is easier when you:
- Apply for secured cards first – Approval is almost guaranteed with a deposit
- Provide proof of income – Show you can repay what you spend
- Open a bank account – Some issuers (like Petal) use bank history instead of credit
- Use student cards if you qualify – Some companies offer starter cards for students
Tips to Build Credit Responsibly
- Always pay on time — payment history is 35% of your score
- Keep your balance below 30% of the limit
- Don’t apply for too many cards at once
- Check your credit score monthly (many cards offer it free)
FAQs About Credit Cards with No Credit
Q: Can I get a credit card if I’m unemployed?
A: Possibly. If you have some form of income (allowance, benefits, side hustle), you can qualify.
Q: Do secured cards actually build credit?
A: Yes! As long as the issuer reports to all three bureaus, your responsible use builds credit.
Q: How long does it take to build credit?
A: Most people see a score within 3–6 months.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Build Fast
Choosing the best credit card as a beginner can open doors. With no credit history, your focus should be on getting approved, using it responsibly, and gradually leveling up to better offers.
Even a simple secured card today can lead to premium credit cards, auto loans, or even a mortgage in the future.
“The best time to build credit was yesterday. The second best time is today.”