What a 17-year-old can do right now

A 17-year-old can open a bank account at most banks and credit unions, but the account will be a custodial account — meaning a parent or legal guardian has to be on it with them and can see all the activity. You cannot open a fully independent account until you turn 18. Some banks let a minor open an account online with a parent's consent; others require both of you to visit a branch in person.

The rules vary by bank. Some institutions have specific teen accounts with lower minimum balances or no monthly fees. Others treat a 17-year-old's account the same as an adult account, except for the custodian requirement. A few banks will not open accounts for anyone under 18 at all, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip.

You will need a government-issued ID (a state ID, passport, or school ID in some cases), proof of your Social Security number, and your parent or guardian present with their own ID. Some banks also ask for a second form of identification or proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • A 17-year-old must have a parent or legal guardian on the account as a custodian, and that adult can see all transactions and balances.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and your parent or guardian present with their own ID to open an account.
  • Many banks offer teen accounts with no monthly fees or low minimum balances, but rules differ by institution — call your bank first to confirm they accept minors.
  • Once you turn 18, you can convert the custodial account to a standard account without closing it, or open a new independent account elsewhere.

What documents you need to bring

Bring your government-issued ID — a state driver's license, state ID card, or passport. A school ID alone usually will not work. You also need proof of your Social Security number; a Social Security card itself, a tax return, or a W-2 form all count.

Your parent or guardian needs to bring their own government-issued ID and proof of their Social Security number. Some banks ask for a second form of ID from either of you, such as a utility bill or lease showing your address. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they specifically require — requirements differ between branches and between institutions.

Custodial accounts and what the adult can see

A custodial account is jointly owned by you and the adult. The adult can see your balance, transaction history, and any fees charged. They can withdraw money, deposit money, and close the account without your permission. This is by design — the account exists because you are a minor, and the law assumes the adult is responsible for the money in it.

The adult's name appears on the account statements and the debit card (if the account comes with one). If you use online banking, both of you can log in and see the same information. Some banks let you set up separate passwords, but the adult's access does not change.

This arrangement is not meant to be secretive. If you want privacy from the custodian, a custodial account is not the right tool. Once you turn 18, you can ask the bank to remove the custodian and take full control, or you can open a separate account in your name alone.

Opening the account in person versus online

Some banks let you start the process online with your parent's consent, then finish it in a branch. Others require both of you to be present from the start. A few banks do the entire process online if your parent verifies their identity through their own bank account or a video call with a banker.

In-person is usually faster and simpler if you have the documents ready. You walk in, show your IDs, sign the paperwork, and the account opens the same day. Online can take a few days for the bank to verify your parent's identity and process the process.

Call the bank's customer service line or visit a local branch to ask which method they use. Do not assume that because one bank offers online opening, yours does — policies vary widely.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, you have choices. You can ask the bank to remove the custodian from the account, and you become the sole owner. The bank will likely ask you to sign new paperwork confirming this change. The account number, debit card, and online login usually stay the same.

Alternatively, you can leave the custodian on the account if you want to. Some people do this to keep a parent involved in financial decisions, or because switching accounts is inconvenient. There is no penalty for keeping the custodian, but you can remove them whenever you choose.

You can also open a completely separate account at a different bank once you turn 18, and close the custodial account if you prefer a fresh start. Either way, the transition is straightforward — the bank handles the paperwork.

Banks and credit unions that accept 17-year-olds

Most national banks accept minors: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer custodial accounts. Many regional banks and credit unions do too. Some credit unions have especially teen-friendly policies — they may waive monthly fees, offer no minimum balance, or provide financial literacy resources.

Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have varying policies. Some accept minors; others do not. Check the bank's website or call their customer service line to confirm before you visit or explore.

If you are a member of a credit union through your school or employer, ask them first — they often have the simplest process for minors and may offer accounts designed for teenagers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without my parent being present?

No. At 17, you are a minor, and the bank requires a parent or legal guardian to be present and on the account. Some banks may allow the parent to verify their identity online or by video call instead of visiting in person, but you cannot open an account alone.

What if I do not have a government-issued ID?

Get a state ID card from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. It costs less than a driver's license and takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your state. Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address. A school ID is not a government-issued ID and will not work for a bank account.

Can my legal guardian be someone other than my parent?

Yes. If a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or other adult is your legal guardian, they can open the custodial account with you. Bring a copy of the guardianship paperwork so the bank can confirm the arrangement. If the guardianship is not formal, the bank will likely require a parent instead.

Will opening a bank account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking or savings account does not create a credit report or affect your credit score. Credit scores only exist if you borrow money or use credit. A bank account is separate from credit.

Can I use the debit card without my parent's permission?

Yes, you can use the debit card to make purchases or withdraw cash. Your parent can see the transactions after they happen, but they cannot prevent you from using the card. If your parent is concerned about spending, they can set up alerts or limits through the bank's app, depending on what the bank offers.