Metal credit cards come from the card issuer, not a separate vendor, and you get one by being approved for a specific card product that includes metal as its material

A metal credit card is simply a physical card made partly or entirely from metal instead of plastic. The issuer decides which cards get metal versions — you cannot request metal as an upgrade to a card you already hold. You get a metal card by applying for and being approved for one of the card products that offers it as standard.

The process is identical to applying for any other credit card: you fill out an application (online, by phone, or in person), the issuer checks your credit and income, and if you meet their requirements, they mail you the card. The metal version arrives instead of plastic. There is no separate metal card program or waiting list.

Key Takeaways

  • Metal cards come only from the issuer that created them — you cannot buy or upgrade to metal separately.
  • The issuer decides which card products include metal; common examples are premium travel cards and high-end cash-back cards.
  • You get approved for the card product itself, not for "metal" as a feature — the material is included if you meet the card's requirements.
  • Metal cards typically carry higher annual fees than their plastic equivalents because the material costs more to produce.
  • Approval timelines and credit score requirements are the same as for any other card from that issuer.

Which card issuers offer metal versions

Most major issuers — American Express, Chase, Citi, Capital One, and others — produce at least one metal card. The metal versions are usually their premium products: American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Citi Prestige, Capital One Venture X. Some issuers also make metal versions of mid-tier cards.

The easiest way to find out whether a specific card comes in metal is to visit the issuer's website and look at the card's product page. The material is listed in the card details, usually near the annual fee and rewards structure. If the page shows a metal card image, that is the version you will receive if approved.

Not every card from an issuer comes in metal. A bank might offer metal for its premium travel card but not for its basic cash-back card. You need to check the specific product you are interested in.

Annual fees and what metal cards cost

Metal cards almost always carry higher annual fees than plastic versions of similar cards. The difference exists because metal costs more to manufacture, package, and ship. A plastic premium card might cost $95 per year; the metal version of a comparable card might cost $395 or more.

The annual fee is set by the issuer and does not change based on the material. You pay the same fee whether you use the card actively or not. Some metal cards offer annual credits (for travel, dining, or other categories) that offset part of the fee, but the base fee still applies.

Before applying, compare the annual fee against the card's rewards rate and any credits it offers. A metal card with a $450 annual fee makes sense only if you will use the rewards or credits enough to justify that cost.

Credit score and income requirements for metal cards

Metal cards are typically premium products, so they usually require a higher credit score than standard cards. Most metal cards ask for a score of 700 or above, though some require 750+. A few require 800+. The exact threshold varies by issuer and by card.

Income requirements also tend to be higher for metal cards. Some issuers list a minimum annual income (often $50,000 to $100,000+), while others do not publish a specific number but assess your income during the application review. The issuer looks at your income, existing debt, and credit history together.

If your credit score or income is below the card's typical range, you can still apply — the issuer will review your full profile. Rejection is common for metal cards if your score is below 700, but approval is possible with strong income or other compensating factors.

How long it takes to receive a metal card

Metal cards take longer to arrive than plastic cards because they require different manufacturing and handling. Most issuers ship metal cards within 7 to 14 business days after approval, though some take up to 21 days. A few expedite delivery for an additional fee.

During the application process, the issuer will tell you the expected delivery timeframe. If you need the card urgently, check whether the issuer offers expedited shipping before you apply. Some do; others do not.

Once the card ships, you can usually track it online through the issuer's website or app. Metal cards are often sent via signature-required delivery because of their value.

What happens if you are denied for a metal card

If you are denied for a metal card, the issuer will send you a notice explaining the reason — usually credit score, income, or existing debt. You can contact the issuer to ask for specifics, and some will reconsider if you provide additional information.

If your score or income is the barrier, you have a few options. You can wait a few months, improve your credit score, and reapply. You can apply for a different card from the same issuer that has lower requirements. Or you can apply with a different issuer that has a metal card with less stringent criteria.

Each application generates a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can lower your score slightly. Space applications out by at least a few weeks to minimize the impact.

Metal card alternatives if you do not meet the requirements

If you want a premium card but do not meet the requirements for a metal version, consider applying for the plastic version of the same card if the issuer offers one. Many issuers make both metal and plastic versions of their top-tier cards, with identical rewards and benefits but different annual fees.

You can also look at metal cards from different issuers with lower credit score or income thresholds. Not all metal cards require 750+ credit scores; some are available to people with scores in the 700 to 749 range.

Another route is to build your credit score and income over time, then reapply for the metal card you want. This takes longer but removes the rejection risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade my existing plastic card to a metal version?

No. The issuer does not offer metal as an upgrade. If you want a metal card, you must apply for a new card product that includes metal. Applying for a new card generates a new hard inquiry and a new account.

Do metal cards have different rewards or benefits than plastic versions?

Not usually. The rewards rate, sign-up bonus, and benefits are typically identical between metal and plastic versions of the same card. The difference is the material and the annual fee. Metal versions almost always cost more per year.

Will a metal card improve my credit score?

A new account will initially lower your score slightly because of the hard inquiry and the new account itself. Over time, as you use the card and pay on time, it can help your score by adding to your credit mix and payment history. The metal material has no effect on your score.

What if my metal card arrives damaged?

Contact the issuer immediately. They will send you a replacement card at no charge. Metal cards are durable, but damage during shipping does happen. The issuer will likely expedite the replacement.

Can I get a metal card if I have fair credit?

It depends on the specific card and issuer. Most metal cards require good to excellent credit (700+), but some issuers have metal cards available to people with fair credit (650 to 699). Check the issuer's website or call their customer service to find out which metal cards, if any, they offer at your credit level.