Metal credit cards are issued directly by your card issuer, not ordered through a third-party vendor
A metal credit card is a physical card made from stainless steel, titanium, or another metal alloy instead of plastic. You cannot buy one separately or upgrade a plastic card to metal. Instead, you request one from your card issuer when you open an account or contact them after you already hold the card. Some issuers offer metal cards automatically to new cardholders; others require you to ask.
The process differs by bank. Some will mail you a metal card at no extra cost when you open an account. Others charge a one-time fee (typically $25 to $100) to issue one, or offer it only to customers who meet spending thresholds or hold premium account tiers. A few issuers do not offer metal cards at all, regardless of how you ask.
Metal cards work exactly like plastic ones—they have the same chip, magnetic stripe, and security features. The metal material is purely cosmetic and does not change how you use the card or what rewards or benefits come with it.
Key Takeaways
- Metal cards come from your card issuer, not from a separate vendor, and you must request one through their customer service or online portal.
- Some issuers include a metal card automatically when you open an account, while others charge a fee or require you to meet spending or account requirements first.
- The metal material does not change how the card functions—it has the same chip, stripe, and security features as a plastic card.
- Not all card issuers offer metal cards, so check your issuer's website or call their customer service to confirm whether the option exists for your specific card.
Check whether your card issuer offers metal cards
Before you request anything, confirm that your issuer actually provides metal cards. Visit the issuer's website and search for "metal card" or "premium card material." Look in the account features section or the FAQ. If you do not find information online, call the customer service number on the back of your current card and ask directly whether metal cards are available for your card product.
Some issuers—including American Express, Chase, and Citi—offer metal cards on certain premium or mid-tier products. Others offer them only on their highest-tier cards. A few smaller issuers or regional banks do not offer them at all. Knowing this before you contact them saves you a wasted conversation.
Request a metal card through your online account or mobile app
If your issuer offers metal cards, the fastest way to request one is usually through your online banking portal or mobile app. Log in, navigate to your card settings or account preferences, and look for an option labeled "Card Replacement," "Reorder Card," or "Card Preferences." Some issuers have a dedicated "Metal Card" or "Premium Card" option in this menu.
Click the option to request a metal card. You may be asked to confirm your mailing address and whether you want to keep your current card number or receive a new one. Some issuers will show you the fee (if any) at this point. Complete the request and note any confirmation number provided. The card typically ships within 5 to 10 business days.
Call customer service if you cannot find the option online
If your online portal does not show a metal card option, call the customer service number on the back of your card. Tell the representative you want to request a metal card. They will confirm whether it is available for your specific card product and account status.
The representative may ask whether you want to keep your current card number or receive a new one. If a fee applies, they will tell you the amount and ask for permission to charge it before proceeding. Once approved, the card will be mailed to the address on file. Ask for a confirmation number and the expected delivery date.
Understand fees and account requirements
Metal card fees vary widely. Some issuers charge nothing—the metal card comes automatically or at no extra cost when you open an account. Others charge $25 to $100 as a one-time fee. A few premium cards include a metal card only if you maintain a certain annual spending level or account balance.
Check your card's terms and conditions or the issuer's website to see what applies to your specific product. If you are unsure, ask during the phone call or check the confirmation email after you request the card online. The fee, if charged, will appear on your next statement.
What to do while you wait for your metal card
Your current plastic card remains active until the metal card arrives and is activated. You can continue using it for all purchases. Once the metal card arrives, you will need to set up it before you use it. Most issuers send set up instructions in the mail with the card, or you can set up it through your online portal or mobile app.
After set up, your old plastic card will stop working. If you want to keep using the same card number for recurring payments (subscriptions, autopay bills), update those accounts with your new card number before you set up the metal card. Some issuers allow you to request that your old card number stay active for a short period after the metal card is activated, but this is not may provide.
Metal cards from new account openings
If you are opening a new credit card account and the issuer offers metal cards, you may be able to request one during the process process. Some applications have a checkbox asking whether you want a metal or plastic card. Others automatically send metal cards to all new cardholders of certain products.
If the process does not mention card material, you can request a metal card after your account is approved and before the card ships. Call customer service or log into your new account online and look for the card preferences section. Requesting early gives you the best chance of receiving a metal card with your first shipment rather than having to order a replacement later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a metal card cost more to use than a plastic card?
No. A metal card has the same interest rates, annual fees, and rewards structure as the plastic version of the same card. The only additional cost is the one-time fee some issuers charge to issue the metal card itself, which is separate from your annual card fee.
Can I get a metal card if I have bad credit?
Yes, if you already hold the card. Metal card requests are not a new credit decision—you are straightforward asking for a different physical version of a card you already own. If your issuer offers metal cards, you can request one regardless of your credit score or account history.
What happens to my old plastic card when I set up the metal one?
Your old card stops working once you set up the metal card. Update any recurring payments or autopay bills with your new card number before set up. Some issuers will keep your old number active for a short grace period, but do not rely on this—contact your issuer to ask about their specific policy.
How long does it take to receive a metal card?
Most issuers ship metal cards within 5 to 10 business days of your request. Delivery typically takes another 3 to 7 business days depending on your location. You will receive a confirmation number when you request the card; use it to track the shipment if your issuer provides tracking.
Can I request a metal card if my issuer does not advertise them?
You can ask, but the answer is likely no. If metal cards are not listed on the issuer's website or mentioned in your card's terms, they probably do not offer them. Calling to ask will not hurt, but do not expect a yes if the issuer has not made them available as a product option.