Is 712 a Good Credit Score?

By Bob Haegele

A 712 credit score is considered “good” in the FICO® scoring system and is close to the average credit score of 714. With this score, lenders and creditors will generally view you as an “acceptable” borrower and may offer you a range of lending products, though not necessarily at their best rates and terms. Here’s a closer look at what types of credit cards and loans you may be able to get with a 712 score.

What Does a 712 Credit Score Mean?

Your credit score is a numerical representation of how likely you are to repay a loan or line of credit. It’s calculated using information found in your credit reports, including your history of on-time bill payments, how much of your available credit you’re using, the types of credit accounts you have, and the length of your credit history.

You actually have multiple credit scores, not just one. This is because credit scores can be calculated using different credit reports (we each have three) and different scoring models, such as FICO, VantageScore®, or a lender’s own proprietary algorithm.

According to the FICO scoring model, which is the one most widely used by lenders, a 712 credit score lands in the “good” tier. Here’s a look at exactly where your score falls on the FICO rating system:

•   300-579: Poor

•   580-669: Fair

•   670-739: Good

•   740-799: Very Good

•   800-850: Exceptional

Lenders consider 712 to be an average credit score that shows you typically pay your bills on time. This score can open doors to a range of credit and loan products, including credit cards, mortgages, and personal loans, often at competitive rates. However, you probably won’t qualify for a lender’s best rates or a bank’s top-tier credit cards, which are generally reserved for those with “very good” or “exceptional” credit.

You may have a 712 score due to a limited credit history, the occasional late or missed payment, or a tendency toward high credit usage. Late payments (defined as 30 days past due) appear in the credit reports of 41% of people with 712 FICO scores, according to credit bureau Experian®.

To better understand your credit position and get an idea of what lenders may see when you apply for credit, it’s a good idea to read through your credit reports. You can get a free copy of your credit report from the three major credit reporting agencies by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.

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What Else Can You Get With a 712 Credit Score?

A 712 credit score may qualify you for a variety of financial products and benefits. While it’s not the highest tier, it’s strong enough to access competitive rates and terms on loans, credit cards, and other financial services.

Can I Get a Credit Card With a 712 Credit Score?

A 712 credit score can give you access to a range of credit cards, including rewards, cash back, and no-annual-fee cards. You might also be able to qualify for a card with a 0% introductory interest rate on purchases or balance transfers. However, with “good” rather than “very good” or “exceptional” credit, card issuers may not offer you their top rewards and loyalty bonuses or their very best annual percentage rates (APRs).

Keep in mind that whether you get approved for a card, and at what rate, will depend on more than your credit score. Card issuers will also look at your income, employment history, and current level of debt. As a result, two people with the same credit score may not get approved for the same card or the same APR.

Recommended: Using a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 712 Credit Score?

A 712 credit score positions you well for securing an auto loan. Lenders generally categorize borrowers with scores above 700 as low-risk, leading to lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms. Depending on the lender and the amount borrowed, the rates for those with a credit score of 712 may be better than those offered to individuals with fair or poor credit.

According to Experian, as of June 2025, the average interest rate for a car loan for borrowers with scores between 661 and 780 was 6.70% for a new car loan and 9.06% for a used car loan. For borrowers with scores between 601 and 660, the average rates were significantly higher — 9.83% for a new car loan and 13.74% for a used car loan.

To get the best possible auto loan interest rate with a 712 credit score, take some time to shop around for a car loan. The rate offered by a car dealership may be higher than what you could get from a bank, credit union, or online lender.

Can I Get a Mortgage With a 712 Credit Score?

A 712 credit score puts you in the path of most mortgage options. This includes a conventional mortgage, which is the most commonly used type of home mortgage. Available through private lenders, conventional mortgages offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms, making them attractive to buyers who meet the qualification criteria.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or don’t have much savings for a down payment, an FHA loan (a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration) could be worth exploring. These loans often have more lenient credit requirements, and your 712 score is well above the minimum. However, FHA loans require you to pay mortgage insurance premiums, which add to your borrowing costs.

Keep in mind that your credit score is only one piece of the puzzle when you apply for a mortgage. Lenders will typically also look at your income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount when evaluating your application.

Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 712 Credit Score?

Personal loans are also within reach with a 712 credit score. Whether you’re consolidating debt, financing a large purchase, or covering emergency expenses, lenders will likely see you as a reliable borrower. You can expect interest rates and loan terms to be better than average, though not necessarily the best available.

For the best results, consider the following:

•   Shop around for lenders who cater to good-credit borrowers. Prequalification can give you an idea of the rates and terms you’ll qualify for without negatively impacting your credit.

•   Use a personal loan calculator to see how much you can save by using a personal loan to pay off high-interest debt.

•   Be cautious about borrowing more than you need, as this can impact your chances of approval, as well as your interest rate.

The Takeaway

A credit score of 712 is a solid foundation for accessing a variety of financial products and achieving your goals. It places you in the “good” credit category, enabling you to secure favorable terms on credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans.

But while a 712 score is good, there’s still some room for improvement. Maintaining responsible financial habits — such as paying bills on time, staying well below your credit limits, and having a mix of credit types in your file — can help you access more borrowing opportunities at even more affordable rates in the future.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

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FAQ

What is a credit score?

A credit score is a number that indicates your credit history and how well you’ve repaid debts. Scores typically range between 300 (low) and 850 (high). Lenders will often use credit scores to determine whether you’re eligible for new credit.

What do I qualify for with a credit score of 712?

A credit score of 712 is considered to be good and positions you as an acceptable borrower. With this score, you’re likely eligible for a variety of credit cards, as well as mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans.

How can I increase my credit score?

To build your credit score, focus on making timely payments and using only a small portion of your available credit. It’s also a good idea to keep your long-standing credit accounts open, even after paying them off, as the length of your credit history also affects your score.