Answer: -Why are you so averse to getting a secured credit card? This would likely be the fastest way to start building your credit.Other than that, you could apply for a gas card or a store card(they accept almost anyone) and pay on-time (and in full, if possible).After about 6 months, you should be able to qualify for a standard ("bank")credit card. Your mother with poor credit may be better than someone with no credit, but odds are that your credit limit would be low and your interest rates (APR) would be VERY high. If you get a gas or store card in your own name and later get a regular credit card, you should be fine... again, the secured (deposit) credit cards would be faster. -Since Student Loans can't be removed with a bankruptcy, how did she do that? Student Loans, taxes and back child support are three of the things I know you can't get rid of.But, to answer your question, yes, she can co-sign. However, your question should be, will anyone give you credit. You may not be able to get anyone to give you a card with her co-signing.You are probably better off to apply on your own without the co-signer. Just because you have no credit does not mean no one will give you credit. You will likely get a card with a very low limit though. Since you haven't proven yourself yet, they'll only let you charge up a small amount until you prove that you'll pay your bills on time, etc. As your credit score increases, you'll be able to get higher credit limits. However, if you max out the cards, that hurts your credit score so pay the balance off when the bill comes. You never want your balance to exceed 30% of your credit limit if you want your score to go up.