Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but the rules depend on your bank and whether you have a parent or guardian

Most banks let you open an account at 17 without a parent present, though some require you to be 18. A few banks have accounts specifically for minors that let you open one at any age with a parent or guardian co-signing. The account type, the bank's own policy, and whether you have an ID all affect what you can actually do once the account is open.

The key difference: a regular adult account at 17 means you own it fully and can make all decisions. A minor account means your parent or guardian has some access and control, at least until you turn 18. Either way, you'll need a government-issued ID (usually a state ID or passport) and proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • Many banks open regular accounts for 17-year-olds without a parent present, but some require you to be 18—call ahead to confirm your bank's policy.
  • If your bank won't open a regular account, you can open a minor account with a parent or guardian as co-signer, which gives them access until you turn 18.
  • You'll need a government-issued ID and proof of address (like a utility bill or school document) to open any account.
  • Once your account is open, you can use a debit card, set up direct deposit, and transfer money, but some banks limit certain features until you turn 18.

Banks that let 17-year-olds open accounts without a parent

Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Ally Bank all allow 17-year-olds to open a regular checking or savings account without a parent or guardian present. You walk in (or go online for some banks) with your ID and proof of address, and you can open the account yourself. You own it completely and make all the decisions about it.

Online banks like Ally, Chime, and SoFi often have lower barriers and faster approval than brick-and-mortar banks. Chime, for example, lets you open an account online at 17 with just an ID and Social Security number. The trade-off is that online banks have no physical branch, so you can't deposit cash in person—you'll need to use ATMs, mobile deposit, or transfers.

Policies change and vary by location, so call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch to confirm they'll open an account for a 17-year-old. Some banks have different rules by state or by branch.

Opening a minor account with a parent or guardian

If your bank won't open a regular account for you at 17, or if you prefer to have a parent involved, you can open a minor account. This is a joint account where your parent or guardian is the co-owner and has full access. You can use the debit card and make deposits and withdrawals, but your parent can see all transactions and can close the account or freeze it.

Most banks offer minor accounts and will open one for anyone under 18 with a parent or guardian present. You'll both need to bring ID and proof of address. The parent or guardian will sign the account agreement, and you'll sign it too. Once it's open, you can use it like a regular account—debit card, online banking, transfers—but your parent has the same access you do.

When you turn 18, you can convert the minor account to a regular adult account in your name alone. Your parent's access ends, and you take full control. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to ask.

What you can and cannot do at 17

Once your account is open, you can deposit money, withdraw cash, use a debit card, set up direct deposit, and transfer money between your own accounts or to other people. You can also use online banking and mobile apps to check your balance and pay bills.

What you typically cannot do at 17: you cannot take out a loan, open a credit card in your own name, or overdraft your account (some banks allow overdrafts only for account holders 18 and older). If your account is a minor account, your parent can see all of this activity and can restrict certain features.

Some banks limit ATM withdrawals or daily transfer amounts for accounts held by minors. Check with your bank about any limits on your specific account before you open it.

Documents you'll need to bring

You'll need a government-issued photo ID. A state driver's license or ID card works best. If you don't have one, a passport is acceptable at most banks. A school ID alone is not enough.

You'll also need proof of address. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or official mail from a government agency addressed to you at your current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have anything in your name, a parent's utility bill with your address on it may work—ask the bank first.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You won't need to bring the card itself, just the number.

Online versus in-person accounts

Opening online is faster—often 10 to 15 minutes—and you can do it from home. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, answer security questions, and the account opens the same day or within 24 hours. You can start using it immediately with a debit card that arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days, or you can use a temporary digital card in your phone while you wait.

Opening in person at a branch takes longer (30 minutes to an hour) but you can ask questions and get help on the spot. You walk out with a debit card the same day at some banks, or it arrives by mail. If you're not sure what type of account you want or you have questions about limits or features, in-person is often easier.

Some banks require in-person opening for minors, even if they let adults open online. Call ahead to confirm.

What happens when you turn 18

If you opened a regular account at 17, nothing changes when you turn 18. Your account stays the same, and you keep full control.

If you opened a minor account, your bank will convert it to an adult account. Your parent's access ends, and you become the sole owner. This usually happens automatically on your 18th birthday, but some banks require you to visit a branch or call to complete the conversion. Check your account agreement or call your bank to find out what happens on your birthday.

After conversion, you can apply for a credit card, take out a loan, or use other financial products that require you to be 18. Your account history from age 17 stays with you and helps build your credit if you use a credit-building product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a parent's permission to open an account at 17?

Not if you're opening a regular account at a bank that allows 17-year-olds. You can open it yourself with just your ID. If your bank requires you to be 18 or if you want a minor account, then yes, you need a parent or guardian to co-sign and be present.

Can I use my school ID to open a bank account?

No. Banks require a government-issued photo ID like a state driver's license, state ID card, or passport. A school ID is not accepted as proof of identity for opening an account.

What if I don't have proof of address in my own name?

Ask your bank if a parent's utility bill or lease showing your address will work. Some banks accept this; others require the document to be in your name. Call before you go in so you know what to bring.

Can I get a credit card at 17?

No. You must be 18 to open a credit card in your own name. At 17, you can use a debit card linked to your bank account, which draws from money you already have rather than borrowing.

What if my bank says no to opening an account at 17?

Ask about opening a minor account with a parent or guardian instead. If that's not an option, try an online bank like Chime or Ally, which often have lower age requirements. You can also wait until you turn 18 and open a regular account then.