Your DM 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 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 DM starts you at level 10, you have 64,000 XP.
The DM 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 DM.
Also, check with your DM about what equipment is available for you to buy with your starting money. For example, the firearms described in chapter 6 are too expensive for level 1 characters, but they might be available for purchase if your DM allows them.
| Starting Level | Equipment and Money | Magic Items |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 | Normal starting equipment | 1 Common |
| 5–10 | 500 GP plus 1d10 × 25 GP plus normal starting equipment | 1 Common, 1 Uncommon |
| 11–16 | 5,000 gp plus 1d10 × 250 GP plus normal starting equipment | 2 Common, 3 Uncommon, 1 Rare |
| 17–20 | 20,000 GP plus 1d10 × 250 GP plus normal starting equipment | 2 Common, 4 Uncommon, 3 Rare, 1 Very Rare |