In pop culture, the “black card” is an extremely rare credit card that has become a sign of wealth and power. What, though, is a “black card,” and who gives them out? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Black Card?
A black card refers to an exclusive credit card that is typically only available by invitation. These cards come with high annual fees elevated spending requirements, and luxurious benefits.
The Centurion® Card from American Express is the most well-known black card. People often call this charge card the “Black Card.” It’s made of anodized titanium and is only given to Amex’s wealthiest customers.
However, American Express isn’t the only issuer of black cards. Other companies like Mastercard and Visa also offer exclusive black cards for high-net-worth individuals. While not as iconic as the Amex Black Card, these products provide similar VIP perks and services.
Black Card Issuers
Here are some of the major issuers of black cards and their top invitation-only products
- American Express – The Centurion® Card
- Mastercard – Mastercard® Black CardTM
- Visa – Visa Infinite Card
- JP Morgan – JP Morgan Reserve Card
- Luxury Card – Mastercard® Gold CardTM
The Centurion® Card remains the most prestigious black card. But several competitors have emerged to provide alternatives for wealthy clients.
Perks of Black Cards
So what makes these cards so special? Black cards offer cardholders a range of elite benefits, including:
- High credit limits – No pre-set spending limit.
- Luxury rewards – Special points programs and travel perks.
- Concierge service – 24/7 access to a personal assistant.
- Exclusive events – Access to high-profile gatherings and experiences.
- Airport lounge access – Entry to over 1,200 airport lounges globally.
Additionally, most black cards provide complimentary elite status with hotel chains, rental car companies, and other travel partners.
Requirements to Get a Black Card
Because black cards are so exclusive, issuers have strict rules about who can get one. While exact qualifications are secret, potential cardholders generally must:
- Have excellent credit (750+ credit scores).
- Maintain high account balances with the issuer.
- Spend hundreds of thousands annually on credit cards.
- Pay lofty annual fees (up to $10,000).
- Have substantial assets under management.
Because it is so hard to get, the black card has become a status symbol among celebrities, executives, and people with very large net worth. It is said that celebrities like Beyoncé and Kanye West carry black cards around with them.
Should You Get a Black Card?
For most consumers, black cards are likely out of reach. Their fees and requirements are prohibitive for average cardholders. But for those who travel constantly and desire luxury perks, a black card can provide unmatched service and prestige.
Just remember that these products aren’t ideal for everyday purchases like groceries or gas. Competitor rewards cards can offer superior points-earning value without the astronomical annual fees.
So while the black card remains an aspirational product, make sure you examine both the costs and benefits before pursuing this exclusive status symbol. The bragging rights carry a hefty price tag.
What is a black card?
The credit card most associated with the phrase “black card” is the Centurion® Card from American Express, or the “Amex Black Card.” It was released in 1999 and created such a buzz that other card issuers wanted to create their own deluxe credit cards to reward their highest-spending customers.
Enter the age of the black card. Now there are many alternatives to the Amex Centurion for consumers of all income levels and credit histories. Many premiere rewards cards have borrowed the black color for their best credit card products, and card issuers have found ways to make their most popular travel rewards cards feel upscale.
The Amex Black Card helped launch the metal card trend, and these days many consumers have at least one metal card in their wallets. There are even no-annual-fee cards like the Verizon Visa® Card* and Prime Visa (see rates and fees) now that are made of metal. But a true black card is invitation-only and was designed for only the most top-tier spenders.
Find the best credit card for you
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Premium luxury credit cards, or “black cards,” are the most exclusive credit cards on the market.
Theres a lot of mystery and myth surrounding these elite cards with wild stories of how the ultra-rich use them to make outlandish purchases, from the horse from “Dances with Wolves” to sand from the Dead Sea.
While its hard to know how many of those rumors are true, there are a few things we know for sure about black cards: they come with very high annual fees, they have very high spending requirements and they are not marketed toward the average consumer (sorry).
But are black cards actually worth it?
Below CNBC Select digs into the additional value of having a black card, who qualifies for a black card and other premium credit cards you might consider instead.
The Secret Of The Black Card | American Express Black Card
FAQ
Who gives out the Black Card?
The Centurion Card® from American Express — better known as the American Express “Black Card,” or simply the Amex “Black Card” — is available only to those who are invited to apply (although you can now request consideration for an invitation, too).
What company makes the Black Card?
The Centurion Card from American Express offers white-glove service to a select, chosen few. Better known as the Black Card, you’ll need a personal invitation from AmEx to apply, and if approved, you’ll be on the hook for a one-time $10,000 initiation fee on top of a $5,000 annual fee. Terms apply.
What bank issues the Black Card?
To get a Black Card from American Express, you must receive an invitation to apply, have excellent credit, and pay the $10,000 initiation fee. May 19, 2025.
Who qualifies for a black card?
Black cards, like the Amex Centurion Card, are invitation-only credit cards primarily aimed at ultra-high-net-worth individuals with significant spending habits.