How do you apply for a credit card?  

If you apply online for a credit card they will send you the paperwork that is required through the mail. They will require something with your actual signature on it to process your request.

Your financial institution is always a good place to start when applying for credit. They most often have MasterCard or Visa through the banks.

When picking one type of card over another things that should be considered are: interest rates, payment terms, rewards programs tied to the card and do the places you frequent or would use the card at accept that type of card.

Best tip I can give you for a first time card holder is to make sure that you don't over extend yourself on the card. You should only charge what you can pay off in a month or two. Otherwise you will be paying so much in interest that you are actually better off without the card.