To answer the last question, I got one before earning 6 figures.
To the previous point, I have a platinum AMEX with lifetime zero fees (although to be fair I don't know the current APD earn rate as it's my backup card). How? I had a card I used often for a few years then cancelled it. AMEX kept badgering me to get a new card but I said no citing fees. Their solution was to give me a fee free card. I've kept the paperwork in case they ever try to renege 😎