May 9, 2025
Written by Soren Hottenstein
Certified Financial Education Instructor®
Certified Financial Education Instructor®
Soren Hottenstein is a personal finance writer, journalist, and technical ghostwriter. They specialize in fintech, cognitive psych, machine learning, cybersecurity, and local histories. Since 2020, their work has been featured in The Balance Money, Bluevine, Lumos Data, Salesforce, and B2B SaaS blogs everywhere.
You usually need to be at least 18 and have a checking account to get a debit card.
There are different ways to get a debit card, including through traditional banks, online banks, and prepaid options.
Compare fees, ATM access, and app features to find one that fits your lifestyle.
A debit card can make everyday money moves, like buying groceries or checking your balance, quick and easy. Whether it's your first time getting one or you're ready for an upgrade, the setup process is pretty straightforward.
In this guide, you'll learn how to apply, what you'll need, and how to compare different debit card options to find one that fits your lifestyle.
Getting a debit card is usually simple, but you'll need a few things to get started.
Most financial institutions require you to be at least 18 years old to open a checking account and get a debit card.1 If you're under 18, you might still be able to get a debit card, but you'll need a parent or guardian to help set up a teen or child account.
Some prepaid debit cards don't have age limits, but they also don't come with the same features you'd get from a debit card linked to a bank account.2
To get a debit card, you'll usually need the same documents you'd use to open a bank account. That includes:
A valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport)
Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
Banks use these documents and information to confirm your identity and meet legal requirements.
You'll need to open a checking account before using a debit card because debit cards pull money from your checking account.
Some banks ask for an initial deposit when you open a checking account, but many online options skip that step or don't require a minimum balance.
After your account is set up and funded, you can start using your debit card to make purchases and take out cash at ATMs. You'll also be able to track your spending right from your bank's app or website.
There's more than one way to get a debit card, depending on your needs and what features you want. Whether you go with a traditional bank, an online-only financial institution, or a prepaid card, it's a good idea to check out the differences before picking one.
Many people get their first debit card when they open a checking account at a local bank or credit union.
These options might have in-person help and lots of ATMs, but watch out – traditional banks can come with service or maintenance fees. Your debit card usually comes in the mail within 7-to-10 business days after you open your account.
Online banks are often one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get a debit card. Some even give you a virtual debit card you can use right away while you wait for the physical one to arrive.
These accounts usually have fewer fees, mobile-friendly features like spending alerts, and apps that help you keep up with your money in real time.
Prepaid debit cards can be a helpful option if you don't have (or want) a traditional bank account. These cards aren't linked to a checking account. You load money onto them first, then spend from the balance.
They're easy to find in stores and online, but be sure to read the fine print. Some charge fees for activation, reloading, ATM use, or even monthly maintenance.3
If you're under 18, a parent or guardian can help you open a joint or custodial account with a debit card. These cards are designed to help teens learn how to manage money, with parents still able to keep an eye on things.
Many kid debit cards come with spending controls, activity notifications, and built-in tools that help teach good money habits.
Not all debit cards are created equal. If you're opening your first account or thinking about switching, here's what to look for.
Ideally, you can find an option with few fees. Some institutions will charge overdraft fees or out-of-network ATM fees – but many online options skip those fees completely.
Look for a debit card and checking account combo with:
No monthly maintenance fees
No minimum balance requirements
Fee-free overdraft coverage (if available)
Access to a fee-free ATM network
These features can help you avoid surprise charges and stay in control of your spending.
Since debit cards pull money straight from your account, strong security matters. Things like two-factor login, spending alerts, and the option to lock your card in the app can help you feel more in control.
Some cards also include chip tech or tap-to-pay features, which make checking out in person easier and more secure, too.
Look for a debit card that gives you access to a large network of fee-free ATMs, especially if you grab cash often.
If you plan to travel, see if the card works internationally and whether there are extra ATM fees when you're abroad.
Your debit card's app matters too. Look for features like:
Real-time transaction notifications
Easy mobile check deposits
Automatic savings features and goal tracking
Budgeting insights
Support chat or help center access
Some apps also give you a virtual card you can start using right away, even before the real one shows up in the mail.
Some debit cards are made for specific goals or situations, like:
Travel cards may waive foreign transaction fees or offer card lock features.
Budget-focused cards often come with envelope-style tools or app-based spending trackers.
Secured credit cards can offer debit-like features while helping you establish a credit history.
Once you've picked the debit card that fits your needs, getting started is pretty simple. Here's how it works step by step.
First, pick where you want to open your account. You can choose a traditional bank, a credit union, or go with a digital option if you want fewer fees and easy mobile access.
Once you've picked your provider, it's time to open a checking account. That usually means:
Fill out an application online or in person
Sharing some basic info and documents, like a photo ID and Social Security number
Reviewing and accepting terms and conditions
If you're using an online bank, you can often knock this out in just a few minutes from your phone.
Most banks will ask you to add some money to activate your account. You can do this by:
Transferring money from another account
Using mobile check deposit
Putting cash in at an ATM or store (if that's an option)
Some accounts don't have a minimum deposit, which is great if you're starting from scratch.
Once your account is set up, you might get a virtual debit card to use right away.
The physical card usually arrives by mail within a few business days. It'll come with steps to activate it and set your PIN – then you're all set.
Picking a debit card isn't just about getting a piece of plastic – it's about choosing how you want to manage your money day to day. It represents access, peace of mind, and your financial future.
The right one can help you avoid unnecessary fees, manage your spending, and make everyday banking easier.
Yes, but it'll likely be a prepaid debit card. These aren't linked to a checking account and can have more fees and fewer features.
Debit cards use your own money from a checking account. Credit cards let you borrow money and pay it back later. If you don't pay the full balance, you'll usually owe interest.
Yes. Debit cards don't require a credit check, since you're spending your own money, not borrowing.
Most banks send your card within 7–10 business days. Some online banks offer a virtual card you can use right away.
Go into your app to freeze or lock your card, then request a new one.
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