Dick’s Sporting Goods actually offers two credit cards, and which one you’re aiming for matters when it comes to approval requirements. One is a store-only card with more flexible criteria, and the other is a full Mastercard that holds applicants to a higher standard.
This article breaks down the credit score you’ll need for each card, what else the issuer evaluates, and how to put your best application forward before you apply.
The Two Dick’s Sporting Goods Credit Cards
Both cards are issued under the ScoreRewards program and earn points on purchases at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, and Field and Stream. The key difference is where you can use them.
The ScoreRewards Credit Card is a store-only card. It works exclusively at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, and Field and Stream locations. Because it’s closed-loop, the issuer tends to be somewhat more flexible on credit requirements than it would be for a general-purpose card.
The ScoreRewards Mastercard works anywhere Mastercard is accepted, which makes it a more versatile card with broader utility. That added flexibility comes with a higher bar for approval. You’ll generally need a stronger credit profile to qualify for this version.
What Credit Score Do You Need?
Neither card publishes an official minimum, but applicants with a credit score of 700 or higher have the best approval odds for both versions. That puts them solidly in the “good” credit range.
For the store-only ScoreRewards Credit Card, there’s a bit more flexibility. Applicants in the mid-to-high 600s may still get approved if the rest of their financial profile is clean. For the Mastercard version, staying closer to 700 and above gives you a meaningfully better shot.
What Else Does the Issuer Look At?
Your credit score sets the baseline, but the issuer reviews your full financial profile before making a decision. These are the factors that matter most:
- Payment history: A consistent record of on-time payments is the strongest signal you can send. Recent late payments or collections can offset an otherwise decent score.
- Debt-to-income ratio: The issuer wants to see that your income is proportionate to your existing debt load. High balances relative to your income can work against you.
- Credit inquiries: Several recent applications for credit can suggest financial stress and lower your approval odds. Space out applications when possible.
- Credit history length: A longer track record of managing credit responsibly strengthens your application, particularly for the Mastercard version.
- Credit mix: Having a mix of account types, such as a credit card alongside an installment loan, demonstrates that you can handle different forms of credit.
How to Improve Your Odds Before Applying
If your score or profile needs work, these steps can help. Most take a few months to show meaningful results, so plan ahead.
- Pay every bill on time: Payment history is the single biggest factor in your credit score, accounting for about 35% of the total. Set up autopay to remove the risk of a missed payment.
- Lower your credit card balances: Reducing your utilization ratio is one of the fastest ways to move your score. Aim for below 30%, and below 10% if you can manage it.
- Keep older accounts open: Closing an old account shortens your credit history and can raise your utilization ratio at the same time. Both outcomes hurt your score.
- Dispute errors on your credit report: Pull your reports from all three bureaus and flag anything inaccurate. Incorrect negative items can drag your score down without cause.
- Avoid opening new accounts before applying: Each hard inquiry dips your score slightly. Hold off on other credit applications in the months leading up to this one.
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Bottom Line
The ScoreRewards Credit Card is a reasonable option for Dick’s regulars who are still building their credit. The Mastercard version asks for more, but offers more in return. Either way, walking in with a score around 700 and a clean recent payment history puts you in a solid position.
If your profile isn’t quite there yet, the fundamentals apply: pay on time, reduce balances, and let your credit history grow. A few months of consistent habits can make a real difference in where you land on an application.
