Standard business card size

The standard business card size in inches is 3.5”x 2”, which makes it easy to slip into a pocket or wallet. Internationally, however, there may be different business card dimensions used. In addition to business websites and LinkedIn profiles, business cards are still one of the strongest networking tools. In this guide, we'll cover the typical business card dimensions in each country along with other elements you’ll need to create a business card design.

Standard business card sizes around the world

Why is the standard business card size so important to your design? In addition to the practicality of a small card that fits in pockets, purses, wallets, and briefcases, consistent sizing makes business cards more recognizable and familiar. And when it comes to your bottom line, you'll appreciate that standard-sized business cards are typically cheaper to print.

What size is a standard business card size in the U.S.?

The United States standard business card size is 3.5" x 2" (89 mm × 51 mm). This comes out to a size that's slightly smaller than the average credit card. These dimensions are also used widely across Canada.

What are the typical business card dimensions around the world?

When you venture outside the U.S. or Canada for business purposes, you'll find that there are different conventions regarding normal business card size:

UK business card size is 3.346” x 2.165”.
Australia business card size is 3.54” x 2.165”.
Japanese business card size is 3.582” × 2.165”.
Europe business card size is 3.346” x 2.165”.

See below for a more detailed list of business card size standards by country: 

Business card design details

Now that you know what size is right for your business, it's time to start working on the design. When putting your layout together, it helps to understand how the design will be interpreted by the printer.

Trim line

When designing your business card layout, the trim line represents the final size of your business card. As a reminder, 3.5" x 2" is the standard size for a U.S. business card.

Bleed area

The bleed area is the part of the design that measures just slightly larger than the actual size of the card. 

The bleed area for U.S. business cards measures 3.61" x 2.11". Any colors, prints, or other design elements that touch the edge of the card should extend into this bleed zone to ensure that there isn't a white border along the side if the cards are cut slightly off-center.

Safe printing area

The safe printing area, on the other hand, is slightly smaller than the actual business card size (3.36" x 1.86" for U.S. cards). Any text or logo that must be shown on the card needs to fall within this area or it may be at risk of getting cut off during the printing process.

Standard business card size in pixels

Business Card Size in Pixels is 1050 x 600 px. If you're designing your business card in a program like Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, or Illustrator, it may help to have pixel sizes to work with rather than inches or millimeters. Here are some of the key dimensions in terms of pixel size at 300 DPI:

Actual card size: 1050 x 600 pixels
Full bleed size: 1083 x 633 pixels
Safe printing area: 1008 x 558 pixels

Looking for more inspiration when it comes to your business cards? Learn about business card design tricks that can help to set you apart from the competition.

Non-traditional business card options

While the classic rectangular business card is the gold standard, there are certain situations in which a non-traditional card shape could work in your favor. Some business owners choose to have these cards made for special events, such as conferences or trade shows, to help their brand stand out. They can also work from a graphic design standpoint if it suits your logo or branding better than the familiar business card size.

Square business cards

The even dimensions of a square card can work well for a number of designs. In some industries, such as artistic ventures, this option is becoming more commonplace. Typically, the size for a square business card is 2.51" x 2.51" (63.7 mm x 63.7 mm).

Folded business cards

This type of business card offers additional space to display information and designs when the card is opened up. For example, the inside could show your business hours or directions to your store location. A folded business card can also be "tented" to stand up on a tabletop. This style usually has similar dimensions to a standard business card when folded.

Die-cut business cards

A custom die-cut card design can come in essentially any shape you want. You can design a record company's business card like a guitar pick or your pet supply store business card like a dog bone, for example. This option is very unconventional, but it can be effective at grabbing the attention of potential customers and clients.  

Vertical orientation

You can switch up your card style while maintaining the standard dimensions by aligning your design vertically instead of horizontally. This option may be particularly fitting for companies with a long and narrow logo format.

Rounded corners

Almost any card shape, including the standard rectangular size, can be customized with rounded corners. This adds a softer touch compared to the familiar squared-off corners.

How to create custom business cards

The Namecheap Business Card Maker is a simple, streamlined tool for making standard-sized business cards online. It only takes minutes to enter your contact details and customize the design elements. You can order cards directly through Namecheap or purchase a PDF proof if you prefer.

Namecheap business cards look sleek and professional. Each one is printed on high-quality paper in matte or glossy protective finishes.

You’ll also have the option to upload your logo or make one with Namecheap's Free Logo Maker. Your logo is one of the most important parts of your business card, regardless of the shape or orientation that you use. Your logo will be quite small when printed on a business card, so choose a simple, clean design. In addition, think about the impact of color choice. 

Have more questions about making your own business cards? Find answers to your FAQs or check out these helpful guides:

How to Make Business Cards
15 Reasons to Use a Business Card
Awesome Logo Ideas for Different Industries
Company Logo Dos and Don'ts