Best Credit Cards with No Credit History

Best Credit Cards with No Credit History (USA – 2026 Guide)

If you’re new to credit or have never had a credit score in the USA, qualifying for your first credit card can be challenging — but it’s definitely possible. In 2026, several credit cards are tailored to people with no credit history, including secured cards, starter cards, and innovative options that use alternative data for approval. Below are the best choices to help you build credit responsibly. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Why You Need a Starter Credit Card

• Build your credit history by reporting to the credit bureaus
• Start earning rewards or benefits sooner
• Improve your chances for better cards later
• Often no minimum credit score required :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Top Credit Cards for No Credit History (2026)

1. Zolve Classic Credit Card

• No credit history required
• $0 annual fee
• Earn up to 10% cashback at select merchants
• No Social Security Number (SSN) needed for many applicants

This is one of the most accessible starter cards for newcomers and immigrants, reporting to all three major credit bureaus. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

2. Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa® Credit Card

• No security deposit required
• No annual or foreign transaction fees
• Cashback rewards up to 1.5%
• Approval based on income & bank account history

Petal evaluates alternative credit factors instead of relying on a credit score, making it ideal for people without any credit history. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

3. Discover it® Secured Credit Card

• Secured card — requires refundable security deposit
• Earn 2% cash back at gas stations & restaurants (up to quarterly limits)
• 1% cash back on other purchases
• Automatic review for upgrade to an unsecured card

Great for people new to credit — the secured deposit becomes your credit limit, and on-time use helps build your credit history. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

4. Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card

• Secured card with a low required deposit
• No annual fee
• Potential credit line increase after on-time payments

Easy to get approved compared to traditional unsecured cards; ideal for first-time credit users. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

5. Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card

• No hard credit check for approval
• Reports to all three credit bureaus
• Rewards and cashback features

This card helps you build credit safely by reporting payments and often requires no traditional credit history. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Other Starter Options to Consider

• OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card — no credit check required, easy approval with deposit :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Student Credit Cards (e.g., Discover it® Student Cash Back) — great for students with limited or no history :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Hybrid debit-credit cards that report to bureaus (varies by provider) :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Tips to Get Approved with No Credit History

• Apply for secured or starter cards first
• Use alternative data (income, banking history, employment) where possible
• Prequalify online to check approval odds without impacting your credit score
• Make all payments on time to build a strong credit history

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a credit card with zero credit history?

Yes — many starter and secured credit cards are designed to be accessible even if you have no credit score or history at all. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Do secured cards help build credit?

Yes — secured cards report to the three major credit bureaus, helping you build your credit history as long as you pay on time. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Is it better to get a secured or unsecured first card?

It depends on your situation — unsecured starter cards like Petal® 2 are great if you qualify, but secured cards are often easier to get without any history. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Final Thoughts

Getting your first credit card with no credit history is absolutely possible in the USA in 2026. Whether you choose a starter unsecured card, a secured credit card, or a modern card that uses alternative data, the right choice will help you start building a strong credit history — a key foundation for your financial future. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}