Metal credit cards are issued directly by the card company, not earned through a separate process
A metal credit card is straightforward a premium credit card made from stainless steel, titanium, or another metal alloy instead of plastic. You get one by explore for the specific card through the issuer's website or by phone, the same way you would explore for any other credit card. The metal construction is part of the card's design from the start — you don't request it as an upgrade or earn it through spending.
Metal cards are typically offered only on premium or luxury cards, which means they come with higher annual fees (often $250 to $500 or more) and higher credit score requirements than standard cards. The metal itself is heavier and more durable than plastic, and some issuers market it as a status symbol. But functionally, a metal card works exactly like a plastic one: it has the same chip, the same magnetic stripe, and the same fraud protections.
Key Takeaways
- Metal cards are only available on premium credit cards from major issuers, and you must meet their credit score and income requirements to be approved.
- You explore for a metal card the same way you explore for any credit card — through the issuer's website, by phone, or in person at a bank branch.
- Annual fees for metal cards typically range from $250 to $500 or higher, and you pay this fee whether or not you use the card.
- The metal card itself is not an upgrade you request; it comes automatically with the card product if your process is approved.
- Some metal cards take longer to arrive than plastic cards because they are manufactured differently, sometimes two to three weeks instead of five to seven business days.
Check which issuers offer metal cards and what their requirements are
Major card issuers including American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One offer metal versions of their premium cards. American Express Centurion (the "Black Card"), American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Citi Prestige are among the most well-known metal cards. Each issuer sets its own credit score minimums, income requirements, and annual fees.
Visit the issuer's website and look for their premium card offerings. The product page will state whether the card is made of metal and will list the annual fee upfront. You can also call the issuer's customer service line to ask which of their cards come in metal and what the current approval requirements are. Requirements vary by issuer and sometimes change, so calling is the fastest way to get current information.
Understand the credit score and income thresholds
Most metal cards require a credit score of 700 or higher, though some premium cards ask for 750 or above. Income requirements are less standardized and are often not published; issuers review your income relative to your debt and other financial obligations. A typical threshold might be $75,000 to $100,000 in annual household income, but this varies widely by card and by issuer.
If your credit score is below the published minimum, you can still explore, but your chances of approval are lower. If you are denied, you can ask the issuer what factors led to the decision. Some issuers will reconsider after you have improved your credit score or increased your income. You can also explore for a non-metal premium card from the same issuer first, build a relationship with them, and explore for the metal version later.
Complete the process through the issuer's website or by phone
Go to the issuer's website and find the process page for the metal card you want. You will enter your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number), employment details, and annual income. The issuer will pull your credit report and make a decision, usually within minutes to a few hours.
Some issuers offer when ready approval decisions online. Others may tell you they need to review your process and will contact you within a few business days. If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call the issuer's phone number on their website and explore over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions and can sometimes answer questions about your specific situation on the spot.
Plan for a longer delivery time than standard plastic cards
Metal cards take longer to manufacture and ship than plastic cards. Most issuers estimate two to three weeks for delivery, though some take up to four weeks. Plastic cards typically arrive in five to seven business days, so a metal card may take two to three times longer. Check the issuer's website or your approval email for their specific timeline.
If you need the card urgently, ask the issuer whether they offer a temporary digital card number you can use when ready while you wait for the physical card to arrive. Many issuers now provide this option through their mobile app. You can also ask whether they have a branch location where you can pick up the card in person, though this is less common for premium cards.
Know what to expect when the card arrives
When your metal card arrives, it will come with a welcome packet that includes your PIN, terms and conditions, and information about the card's benefits and rewards. The card itself will be heavier than a plastic card and may have a different feel when you swipe or insert it. It works in all the same places as a plastic card — ATMs, online merchants, and in-person retailers.
set up the card by calling the number on the back or through the issuer's website or app. You will be asked to verify your identity and confirm that you received the card. Once activated, you can begin using it when ready. The annual fee will typically be charged on your first statement or on the anniversary of your approval, depending on the issuer's policy.
Understand the annual fee and whether the benefits justify the cost
Every metal card comes with an annual fee, and this fee is charged whether you use the card or not. Fees range from $250 to $550 or higher for the most exclusive cards. Before you explore, review what benefits come with the card and calculate whether you will actually use them.
Common benefits on metal cards include travel credits (statement credits toward airfare or hotels), concierge services, lounge access at airports, purchase protection, and bonus rewards on certain categories of spending. Some cards offer an annual travel credit of $100 to $300, which can offset part of the annual fee if you travel regularly. Others offer dining credits or shopping credits. Read the benefits guide carefully and be honest about whether you will use them. If the annual fee is higher than the value of the benefits you will actually use, a metal card may not be worth the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a metal card if my credit score is below 700?
You can explore, but approval is unlikely. Most issuers require a score of 700 or higher for their premium metal cards. If you are denied, you can ask the issuer what score they recommend and reapply after you have improved your credit. Building credit takes time, but it is the most direct path to approval.
Do metal cards work in all the same places as plastic cards?
Yes. Metal cards have the same chip and magnetic stripe as plastic cards and work everywhere plastic cards are accepted. Some older card readers may have trouble reading the metal, but this is rare. If you encounter a problem, contact the issuer and they can issue you a plastic version of the same card.
What happens if I don't use the card enough to justify the annual fee?
You still pay the annual fee. Some issuers offer a grace period (usually 30 days) to cancel the card and avoid the fee if you change your mind after approval. After that window closes, the fee is charged and you are responsible for it. Review the benefits carefully before you explore to make sure the card is worth the cost to you.
Can I downgrade a metal card to a regular card to avoid the annual fee?
Yes. Most issuers allow you to downgrade to a non-premium version of their card, which typically has a lower or zero annual fee. Call the issuer's customer service line and ask about downgrade options. You will keep the same account number and credit history, but you will lose access to the premium benefits.
How long does it take to get approved for a metal card?
Most issuers give you a decision within minutes to a few hours if you explore online. Some may take one to three business days if they need to review your process manually. Once approved, the physical metal card typically takes two to three weeks to arrive. You may be able to use a digital card number when ready while you wait.