Free Familiar or No?

[Gizzard]

Do Wizards and Sorcerers get a familiar for free when they start? I dont see anything in the PHB specifically covering this issue; I only see where it cost 100gp to get one [later]. Perhaps this is DMs discretion?

 

[Crothian]

I always have the PC save up 100gp to get one. Sure it might be a slight hindrance at the early levles, but overally PCs seem to enjoy things they earn, not what is freely given.

 

[bret]

I would say that neither the Sorcerer nor the Wizard automatically start with a Familiar.

The PHB says they "can obtain a familiar." The procedure is then given for doing so. It does not say that either class begins with one, whereas the Druid specifically states that they can begin play with an Animal Companion.
I don't think it would make a large difference if a Wizard or Sorcerer did start play with one, but by the rules they wouldn't.

 

[LokiDR]

You don't get to start with a familar, unless you start with more than standard starting money. Some times it is just simpler this way.