Yes, a 17-year-old can open a bank account, but the rules depend on the bank and the account type

Most banks allow 17-year-olds to open a checking or savings account, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign or be a joint account holder. Some banks require the adult to be present in person; others allow online applications where the adult verifies their identity remotely. A few banks offer teen-only accounts designed for this age group, where the parent has monitoring access but the teen builds independent account history.

The specific requirements vary by bank. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional banks have teen checking products. Credit unions often have similar options. Before you choose a bank, check whether they require the adult to visit a branch, whether they charge monthly fees, and what spending limits or parental controls come with the account.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks allow 17-year-olds to open accounts with a parent or guardian as a joint account holder or co-signer.
  • Some banks offer teen-specific checking accounts with parental monitoring features; others require a standard joint account.
  • You will need a government-issued ID (state ID or passport), proof of address, and the adult's ID and Social Security number.
  • Online banks and credit unions sometimes have faster or simpler processes than large national banks.
  • Monthly fees, spending limits, and parental controls vary widely, so compare accounts before opening one.

What documents you need to bring or provide

You will need a government-issued photo ID — a state driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have one yet, some banks will accept a school ID plus a birth certificate, but this varies. The bank will also ask for proof of address, usually a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name or your parent's name.

The adult co-signer or joint account holder will need their own government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. If you are opening the account online, the bank will ask the adult to verify their identity through a video call or by uploading documents. If you are opening it in person, both of you should visit the branch together, though some banks allow the teen to open the account alone if the adult has already been verified in the system.

In-person versus online account opening

Opening an account in a bank branch is usually the fastest route if both you and the adult can go together. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you walk out with a debit card or a temporary card number. The bank staff can answer questions about fees and features on the spot.

Online opening is faster if the bank supports it — some accounts are approved within hours. However, the adult must complete their own identity verification, which can add a day or two. You may also have to wait for a physical debit card to arrive by mail, though many banks now issue temporary card numbers when ready. Check the bank's website to see whether they offer online teen account opening; not all do.

Teen-specific accounts versus joint accounts

A teen checking account is designed for your age group and usually comes with parental controls — the adult can set spending limits, see transactions, and receive alerts. Examples include Chase First Banking, Bank of America Teen Checking, and Wells Fargo Teen Checking. These accounts often have no monthly fee if the parent also banks there, and they help you build credit history in your own name.

A joint account is a standard checking or savings account where both you and the adult are listed as owners. Both of you can withdraw money and make decisions about the account. Joint accounts do not always come with parental controls, so the adult cannot restrict your spending without closing the account or removing you. Joint accounts are simpler to set up at any bank, but they do not build your independent credit history the same way a teen account does.

Monthly fees and account features to compare

Teen accounts often have no monthly maintenance fee, especially if a parent has a checking account at the same bank. Some charge $5 to $10 per month if the parent is not a customer. Joint accounts follow the same fee structure as regular accounts — they may have no fee, or they may charge $10 to $15 per month depending on the bank and whether you maintain a minimum balance.

Look at what else comes with the account: does it include a debit card, online banking, mobile app access, and ATM access? Some teen accounts limit ATM withdrawals or set daily spending caps. Others offer no-fee overdraft protection or allow you to earn interest on savings. Credit unions sometimes offer better rates on savings accounts and lower fees overall, so it is worth checking what is available in your area.

What happens after you open the account

Once the account is open, you can deposit money by transferring it from another account, having someone send you money electronically, or depositing cash or checks at an ATM or branch. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days if you did not receive a temporary card number at opening. You can set up direct deposit if you have a job, which is the fastest way to get paychecks into your account.

If the account is a teen account with parental controls, the adult can log in to see your transactions and adjust spending limits. If it is a joint account, the adult has full access to the account and can withdraw money without your permission. Make sure you understand the account type before opening it, because the difference matters if you want privacy or control over your own money.

If you cannot open an account at a traditional bank

Some 17-year-olds face barriers at banks — no ID, no proof of address, or no adult willing to co-sign. In that case, look at credit unions in your area, which sometimes have more flexible policies. You can also ask whether the bank offers a second-chance or basic account, which has fewer requirements but may have higher fees or lower limits.

Another option is a prepaid debit card, which does not require a bank account or a co-signer. You load money onto the card and use it like a debit card. Prepaid cards do not build credit history, and they often charge per-transaction fees, so they are not ideal long-term. But they can work if you need a card now and cannot open a bank account yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 17 without a parent?

No. All banks require a parent or legal guardian to co-sign or be a joint account holder for anyone under 18. You cannot open an account alone, even if you have a job or your own ID.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account?

You need your own Social Security number, and the adult co-signer needs theirs. If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you will need to get one before opening an account. You can explore for one at your local Social Security office or online at ssa.gov.

Will opening a bank account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking or savings account does not show up on your credit report and does not affect your credit score. Only borrowing money (loans, credit cards) and payment history affect credit. A bank account is separate.

What if the adult co-signer wants to close the account or remove themselves?

If it is a joint account, the adult can usually close it or remove themselves without your permission. If it is a teen account, the adult typically cannot close it without your consent once you turn 18, but policies vary by bank. Ask the bank what happens when you turn 18 — most teen accounts automatically convert to regular accounts at that point.

Can I use my school ID instead of a state ID?

Some banks accept a school ID plus a birth certificate, but most require a government-issued photo ID like a state ID or passport. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they will accept, because policies differ.