Your GM might start your group's characters at a level higher than 1. It is particularly recommended to start at level 3 if your group is composed of seasoned D&D players.
Creating Your Character
Creating a higher-level character uses the same character-creation steps outlined in this chapter and the rules for advancing beyond level 1 provided in the “Level Advancement” section. You begin with the minimum amount of XP required to reach your starting level. For example, if the GM starts you at level 10, you have 64,000 XP.
Starting Equipment
The GM decides whether your character starts with more than the standard equipment for a level 1 character, possibly even one or more magic items. The Starting Equipment at Higher Levels table is a guide for the GM.
Also, check with your GM about what equipment is available for you to buy with your starting money. For example, the firearms described in “Equipment” are too expensive for level 1 characters, but they might be available for purchase if your GM allows them.
Starting Equipment at Higher Levels
| Starting Level | Equipment and Money | Magic Items |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 | Normal starting equipment | 1 Common |
| 5–10 | 500 GP + 1d10 × 25 GP + normal starting equipment | 1 Common, 1 Uncommon |
| 11–16 | 5,000 GP + 1d10 × 250 GP + normal starting equipment | 2 Common, 3 Uncommon, 1 Rare |
| 17–20 | 20,000 GP + 1d10 × 250 GP + normal starting equipment | 2 Common, 4 Uncommon, 3 Rare, 1 Very Rare |