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What Credit Score Do You Need to Get the Amex Platinum Card?

Review Updated
Joel O'Leary
Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures that our product ratings are not influenced by compensation.

The American Express Platinum Card® is such a baller card. I remember when mine first arrived in the mail a few years ago -- it's a heavy little piece of metal to carry around!

Using my Platinum Card® always feels great. It's one of the most feature-packed cards available these days, with over $3,500 in annual value.

But to get perks like these, you need to clear a high bar. Specifically, it's generally suggested that most people will need a credit score of Good to Excellent to get one, plus a good credit profile.

American Express Platinum Card®
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At Motley Fool Money, every credit card we review is rated on a 5-star scale, scored to a tenth of a point. Our ratings weigh the features that matter most: rewards rates, 0% intro APR offers, welcome bonuses, fees, and perks like travel credits and purchase protections.

We score cards within four primary categories:

  • 0% intro APR cards for paying down balances or financing purchases
  • Travel cards for maximizing points, miles, and perks on the road
  • Cash back and rewards cards for everyday spending value
  • Business cards designed to fit company expenses and growth

Top-rated cards typically combine strong long-term value, attainable bonuses, low fees, and standout protections or perks.

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best credit card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring credit cards from reputable brands. 'Best for' category selections on this page are determined by our editors, and a single card may be recognized in multiple categories.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.

At Motley Fool Money, every credit card we review is rated on a 5-star scale, scored to a tenth of a point. Our ratings weigh the features that matter most: rewards rates, 0% intro APR offers, welcome bonuses, fees, and perks like travel credits and purchase protections.

We score cards within four primary categories:

  • 0% intro APR cards for paying down balances or financing purchases
  • Travel cards for maximizing points, miles, and perks on the road
  • Cash back and rewards cards for everyday spending value
  • Business cards designed to fit company expenses and growth

Top-rated cards typically combine strong long-term value, attainable bonuses, low fees, and standout protections or perks.

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best credit card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring credit cards from reputable brands. 'Best for' category selections on this page are determined by our editors, and a single card may be recognized in multiple categories.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the most well-qualified candidates for the Platinum Card® will typically have credit scores in the good to excellent range. Applicants with scores below that range could still qualify based on other criteria. Those with scores below good are generally considered the least well-qualified candidates.

It's important to note that American Express looks at more than just your score. (All card issuers do, not just Amex.)

They want to see a long credit history, solid income, and responsible debt use. If you have these, it will strengthen your case.

Already have a great score and solid credit profile? Apply and find out your welcome offer for the Platinum Card® today and upon approval, snag a welcome offer as high as 175,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months!

What else matters besides your credit score?

Let's look at these other factors more closely.

  1. Your income and debt-to-income ratio: Amex wants to see that you can comfortably pay off your card, especially with the high $895 annual fee (see rates and fees). A large income combined with low existing debt is ideal.
  2. Your payment history and length of credit: You'll want a solid track record of on-time payments. If you have other accounts open for many years, this helps too.
  3. Your history with American Express: Are you already an Amex cardholder in good standing? You might get pre-approved or notice the Platinum Card® within the tailored offers in your Amex dashboard.

Is the Platinum Card® worth it?

Yes, the Platinum Card® comes with a hefty annual fee, but if you're a frequent traveler, you can more than make up for the cost with all the included perks.

Even if you only fly a few times a year, or like to stay in higher end hotels, you can earn back the cost of your annual fee -- and then some! If the Platinum Card® doesn't quite feel like a fit, check out our list of the best travel cards for more options.