What a metal credit card is and how to request one
A metal credit card is a physical card made from stainless steel, titanium, or another metal alloy instead of plastic. Most metal cards are issued by premium credit card programs — typically those with annual fees of $300 or more — and are sent automatically when you open the account. You do not request a metal card separately; the card type is part of the account you sign up for.
If you already hold a premium card and want to know whether a metal version exists, contact your card issuer's customer service line. They can tell you whether your specific card comes in metal, whether you can switch to it, and whether any fee applies to the change. Some issuers offer metal cards only to cardholders who meet spending thresholds or who have held the account for a minimum time.
Metal cards are heavier and more durable than plastic, but they work the same way at checkout — they tap, insert, or swipe like any other card. The metal material is a visual marker of the card's premium tier, not a functional difference.
Key Takeaways
- Metal credit cards come standard with premium card programs that charge annual fees, usually $300 or higher.
- You receive a metal card automatically when you open a may have access to premium account; you do not order it separately.
- If you already hold a premium card, call the issuer to ask whether a metal version is available and what conditions explore.
- Metal cards function identically to plastic cards at payment terminals and online.
- Some issuers charge a fee to replace a plastic card with a metal one, while others offer the swap at no cost.
Premium credit card programs that offer metal cards
Metal cards are issued by major card networks and banks as part of their highest-tier offerings. American Express offers metal versions of its Platinum Card and Centurion Card. Visa issues metal cards through its Infinite tier programs. Mastercard offers metal cards in its World Elite and Mastercard Black tiers. Chase, Capital One, Bank of America, and Citi all have premium card programs that include metal versions.
Each issuer sets its own annual fee, rewards structure, and benefits. Metal card programs typically include perks like airport lounge access, travel credits, concierge services, and higher cash-back or points rates. The metal card itself is included in the account — you do not pay extra for the material.
To find which metal card programs match your spending habits and budget, review the annual fees and benefits of each issuer's premium tier. Most issuers publish full details on their websites, including photos of the metal card design.
Steps to open a premium account and receive a metal card
Start by choosing a premium card program that fits your needs. Visit the issuer's website and locate the premium or elite card tier. Read through the annual fee, rewards rates, and included benefits to confirm it aligns with how you spend.
Click the link to open an account. You will enter personal information, including your name, address, Social Security number, income, and employment details. The issuer will check your credit report and make a decision within minutes to a few days. If you are approved, your account opens when ready.
Your metal card will be mailed to the address you provided during signup. Delivery typically takes 7 to 14 business days. Some issuers allow you to see a photo of your card design before it ships. Once it arrives, set up it by calling the number on the back or using the issuer's mobile app, then you can use it right away.
Switching from a plastic card to metal if you already have an account
If you hold a premium card issued in plastic and want a metal version, contact your card issuer's customer service department. You can call the number on the back of your card, use the mobile app, or log into your online account and look for a "Card Services" or "Manage Card" option.
Explain that you want to request a metal card replacement. The representative will confirm whether a metal version is available for your specific card, whether you meet any spending or tenure requirements, and what the process involves. Some issuers send the metal card at no charge; others charge a replacement fee of $25 to $50.
If you proceed, the issuer will mail the metal card to you. Your old plastic card will remain active until the metal card arrives and you set up it. Once the new card is activated, the plastic card is deactivated automatically. You can request to keep the old card number or receive a new one — ask the representative which option is available.
What happens when your metal card arrives
When your metal card is delivered, open the envelope and inspect it for damage. The card will come with set up instructions, either printed on an insert or available through the issuer's app or website. Most cards can be activated when ready by calling a phone number or logging into your account online.
After set up, the card is ready to use at any merchant that accepts that card network (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express). Metal cards work at chip readers, tap terminals, and online checkout just like plastic cards. There is no special process or setup required.
If your card arrives damaged, call customer service when ready. The issuer will send a replacement at no charge. Keep the damaged card until the replacement arrives, so you have a working card during the swap.
Metal card design and customization options
Metal cards come in designs set by each issuer — you cannot customize the color, material, or finish. American Express Platinum cards are typically gunmetal gray. Visa Infinite cards vary by issuer but are often silver or black. Mastercard Black cards are usually black with metallic accents. Each design includes the cardholder's name, card number, and expiration date embossed or printed on the surface.
Some issuers offer limited-edition designs or regional variations, but these are determined by the issuer, not by the cardholder. If you want a different design, you would need to close the current account and open a different premium card program — a step that affects your credit report and is not recommended for design reasons alone.
The card number and security features are the same as any other card from that issuer. Metal cards include the same fraud protection and purchase protections as plastic versions of the same program.
Costs and fees associated with metal cards
The metal card itself has no separate cost — it is included in the premium card program. You pay only the annual fee for the account, which ranges from $300 to $550 or higher depending on the issuer and card tier. This annual fee is charged whether you use the card or not.
If you request a replacement metal card after your first one is issued, some issuers charge a replacement fee of $25 to $50. This applies if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. A few issuers waive the replacement fee for premium cardholders; ask when you request the replacement.
Metal cards do not have different interest rates, foreign transaction fees, or other charges compared to plastic versions of the same card. All fees and rates are identical — only the physical material differs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay extra to get a metal card instead of plastic?
No. The metal card is included in the premium card program's annual fee. You pay the annual fee regardless of whether your card is metal or plastic. If you request a replacement metal card after your first one, some issuers charge $25 to $50, but the initial metal card is free.
Can I get a metal card with a regular credit card, not a premium one?
Metal cards are only issued with premium card programs that charge annual fees. Standard cards without annual fees come in plastic only. To get a metal card, you must open a premium account with an annual fee of $300 or more.
How long does it take to receive a metal card after I open an account?
Metal cards are mailed after your account is approved and typically arrive within 7 to 14 business days. Some issuers offer expedited shipping for an additional fee. Check your account online or call customer service to track your card's delivery status.
What do I do if my metal card arrives damaged?
Call the issuer's customer service number on the back of any card you have from that bank, or log into your online account. Report the damage and request a replacement. The issuer will send a new card at no charge. You can use your old card until the replacement arrives.
Can I switch back to a plastic card if I change my mind about metal?
Yes. Contact customer service and request a plastic card replacement. The issuer will mail a plastic version of your card. There may be a replacement fee, though some issuers waive it. Your account and benefits remain the same — only the physical card material changes.