Initiating the process of building credit history is intimidating, especially given the fact that top-tier cards will require a robust credit record. The good news? Awaiting us on our way to 2025, a wide variety of credit cards are available for beginners, catering to those who have just entered the credit world.
Whether you are a student, a recent or not recent graduate, or trying to restore your finances, our tips will help you to pick the right credit card and to create your credit successfully.
What to Look for in a Beginner Credit Card
First of all, it is vital to understand what these features are that are crucial for those new to credit cards:
- No credit history required: Ideal for first-time applicants.
- Low or no annual fees: Reduce costs when you get acquainted with credit management.
- Credit-building features: All of them – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – get your credit report.
- Upgrade potential: Specific cards allow you to switch to an unsecured credit card.
- Mobile app and alerts: Helps track spending and payments.
Comparison Chart: Top Credit Cards for Beginners [2025]
| Credit Card | Type | Annual Fee | APR (Variable) | Key Feature | Best For |
| Discover it® Secured | Secured | $0 | 28.24% | Cashback + reports to 3 bureaus | Earning rewards |
| Capital One Platinum Secured | Secured | $0 | 30.74% | Low deposit for approval | Low upfront cost |
| Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa | Unsecured | $0 | 24.99%–34.49% | AI-based approval process | No deposit required |
| Chime Credit Builder Visa® | Secured | $0 | 0% | No interest, flexible funding | Budget-conscious beginners |
| OpenSky® Secured Visa® | Secured | $35 | 25.64% | No credit check for approval | Limited credit/bad credit |
1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card
Discover it® Secured has appeared at the top of the list for best beginner secured cards several times, owing to its appealing rewards and route to unsecured accounts.
Key Benefits:
- Earn 2% cash back on gas station and restaurant purchases quarterly (not to exceed $1,000);
- Enjoy a 1% cash back on purchases other than within gas stations and restaurants.
- $0 annual fee.
- Your FICO score is included free with your monthly statements.
- Graduation opportunity: After 7 months, lenders review your account to consider upgrading.
Pros:
- Provides superior rewards to secured card users.
- Automatic reviews for unsecured upgrades.
- Free credit-building tools.
Cons:
- Requires refundable security deposit ($200–$2,500).
- If you carry a balance, a variable annual percentage rate applies.
2. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
If you are looking for a secure option to begin the creation of credit with a low initial cost, then this card is for you.
Key Benefits:
- $0 annual fee.
- Depending on your credit score, the minimum deposit that is needed can be $49, $99 or $200.
- The credit limit can be increased after making 6 consecutive on-time payments.
Pros:
- Flexible deposit options.
- No annual fee and no foreign fees.
- A credit report is provided to all the major credit agencies.
Cons:
- No rewards or cash back.
- High APR (30.74% variable).
3. Petal® 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa Credit Card
Petal®1 is an unusual form of entry-level support because it is not secured and does not require one to post a deposit to be able to purchase. Petal® 1 measures eligibility, taking into account different information such as income and banking history instead of traditional credit checks.
Key Benefits:
- No annual fees, no down payment, and no credit needed to apply.
- Credit limits up to $5,000.
- Payment of credit is sent to Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.
Pros:
- Suitable for those who do not have any credit history.
- High credit lines for those new to business.
- Availability of budgeting resources, as well as mobile app access, makes it convenient.
Cons:
- No rewards program.
- There is a risk of a high APR for some customers.
4. Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
A Credit Card can help someone start building credit without getting into debt.
It is to be designed so that it acts as a substitute to debit and credit cards. That is the best option for those people who want to correct their credit history and without any risk of debt.
Key Benefits:
- There are no interest fees on purchases or hidden costs.
- No credit check to apply.
- Set your credit limits according to your bank account.
- Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are made aware of your account activity.
Pros:
- Zero risk of overspending.
- No fees of any kind.
- Direct real-time transfers from your Chime Spending Account.
Cons:
- Requires a Chime Spending Account.
- No rewards or bonuses.
5. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
Ideal for those with little credit or those who were denied by other credit card firms. Without a credit check, it is viewed as one of the most inclusive secured credit forms of borrowing available.
Key Benefits:
- No credit check required.
- $35 annual fee.
- $200 minimum deposit.
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus.
Pros:
- Very easy approval process.
- Perfect for those with limited or absent credit history.
Cons:
- Charges an annual fee.
- Lack of an opportunity to switch to an unsecured credit card.
Tips for First-Time Credit Card Users
Utilize your starter credit card with the following steps:
- Ensure you pay your entire balance monthly to avoid interest fees.
- Set up automatic payments or mark dates as reminders so that you pay on time.
- Keep your balance in check because it should never use up more than 30% of your credit limit.
- Take advantage of reputable websites like Credit Karma or Experian to check your credit report for free.
- Always go with your card, even on small charges, to show evidence of responsible borrowing.
FAQs
Is it possible to get a credit card without a credit history?
Indeed, there are quite a few secured credit cards, as well as some unsecured options that are custom-made for no-history customers, but Petal® 1 or Chime Builder would be among those.
How fast can we get a credit history?
It is possible to receive increases in credit score within the first 3 to 6 months if you use your card carefully.
Will applying for a beginner card hurt my credit score?
As a one time inquiry may help in decreasing the score, regular positive behavior can offset the impact of one or two such inquiries.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article contains affiliate links for some mentioned credit cards. Should be approved once applied, a negligible amount of commission will be achieved by us without any additional rates to you. We only recommend credit card products that we believe will help our readers.
Final Thoughts
Your first credit card is a milestone in your financial life. It is crucial to choose a card that suits you well with your current financial situation — whether you get a secured card or think about alternatives like Chime or Petal.
Our Top Pick: If you are new to credit, and you want to make it possible to build your score while earning rewards, the Discover it® Secured Card is the best option for you in 2025.
Whether you choose either of the cards or any other, intend upon it, be disciplined, and watch your credit rise.
