American Express Centurion Card Requirements

What does it take to get an American Express Centurion Card (aka the Black Card)? Lots and lots of money. The American Express Centurion Card is perhaps the most exclusive credit card in the world. Despite urban legends of a black credit card offering unlimited spending and elite privileges circulating for decades, the American Express Centurion Card did not exist prior to 1999. Now, legend is reality.

What does it take to get a Centurion Card, the only credit card made from titanium, not plastic?

The Centurion Card is issued by invitation only. To start, you will need to carry an American Express Platinum Card and be an American Express Cardmember for at least a year.

If you spend at least $250,000 a year on your Platinum Card, you may be considered for a Centurion Card. But being a big spender alone won’t get you the black card.

You’ll also need to pony up a $5,000 initiation fee and $2,500 annually for the privilege of carrying the card.

What does it get you?

Besides the ability to charge that private jet you’ve been wanting, you’ll also get automatic Elite status at a range of Airlines and Hotels, free companion tickets and first class upgrades, free stays at the worlds most exclusive hotels, personal shopping services at designer stores, and more.

If you’re not quite ready for the Centurion Card, but want to start working towards it, the American Express Gold Card is the place to start.