Best Business Gas Cards 2025: Fuel Cards Compared

person paying for fuel using card

Our site is reader-supported – by clicking our links, we can match you with a potential supplier, and we may earn a small commission for this referral.

The best gas cards help manage your fleet’s fuel consumption closely, and even get discounts at the pump – and that’s crucial when fuel is estimated to be around 25% of total fleet costs in 2025.

According to our industry research, the best gas card is the WEX Fleet Card. It gives access to a wide network of 185,000 gas stations (or 95% of the country), provides you with detailed oversight of your fleet operations, and offers an extensive discount package.

Of course, every company operating a fleet will have slightly different needs when it comes to managing fuel expenses. Below we’ve profiled four other competitors that stood out in our research so that you can compare and find the best-suited option for your operations.

The Best Gas Cards in 2025

After analysing the US market, our top five gas cards for US fleets in 2025 are the following:

Swipe right to see more
0 out of 0
Card Fees
  • From $2 per month
  • $40 set-up fee
Card Fees
  • $3 per card, per month
  • $50 fee for late payment
  • Other fees apply
Card Fees
  • $8 per month
  • One-time $50 set-up fee
Card Fees

None

Card Fees
  • $2 monthly per card (for extended coverage)
  • $40 set-up fee
  • Other fees apply
Savings and Discounts
  • Up to $0.03/gallon
  • Access to the WEX EDGE Savings Network
Savings and Discounts

Rebate of $0.01-$0.04/gallon, based on fuel consumption

Savings and Discounts

Between $0.07-$0.25/gallon off, depending on station

Savings and Discounts

$0.02-$0.06 per gallon, based on fuel consumption

Savings and Discounts

Up to $0.06/gallon, based on fuel consumption

Network

Accepted at 95% of US gas stations (approximately 185,000 stations)

Network

Accepted anywhere that accepts Visa

Network

15,000+

Network

13,000 stations

Network

95% of US gas stations

Key Features
  • 24/7, US-based customer service
  • Discounts on vehicle accessories and hotel stays
  • Can be used for engine lubricants, vehicle maintenance and cleaning
Key Features
  • Costco membership
  • Can be used for EV charging
  • App available in Spanish and English for bilingual fleets
Key Features
  • Discounts on tires and hotels
  • RFID tags for card-free fueling
  • App highlights stations with biggest savings
Key Features
  • 15% discount at Jiffy Lube
  • Station locator via WEX’s Driver Dash app
  • Electronic invoicing
  • 24/7 customer support
Key Features
  • ExxonMobil Rewards+ Points
  • Station locator feature
  • Contactless pay-at-pump
  • 24/7 customer support
Get free quotes Get free quotes Get free quotes Apply Now Apply Now
Compare Quotes Compare Quotes Compare Quotes Compare Quotes Compare Quotes

What type of fuel do you need to pay for?

Submit
Why Can You Trust Expert Market for Gas Card Recommendations?

At Expert Market, we are dedicated to helping our readers make informed purchases to make their businesses thrive. We conduct an unbiased, user-led testing process to evaluate the best gas cards on the market. Refer to our methodology section for a more detailed breakdown of our research process and how we arrived at our top five.

1. WEX Fleet Card Best Overall Gas Card

Discount per gallon: $0.03 plus access to the WEX EDGE Savings Network

WEX Fleet Card
Pricing Up to $4 per card monthly
Strengths

Can be used for both gasoline and diesel

Accepted at the majority of US filling stations

Can be used for EV charging

Gas price comparison tool

Option to pay at pump

Weaknesses

No carbon emissions data

Card can't be used for toll fees or parking

No food discounts for drivers

Pricing
Card feesRebate
Up to $4 per card, monthly Up to $0.03 per gallon

Prices correct as of April 2025

The top pick from our research, the WEX Fleet Card gives you control and visibility over your fleet, including spending controls, automated accounting, purchase alerts, and customized reporting.

It’s user-friendly, with a handy station locator and fuel comparison tool, allowing drivers to find the cheapest rates. It also has a pay-at-pump functionality so drivers can be on their way quickly after filling up.

wex connect app showing gas stations and prices in a list, on a map and the filters you can use across three screens
With the WEX Connect app, you can input a location and see the gas stations in your area, filtered for the type of fuel your vehicle needs, with the prices for those stations listed either in a list or map view. Source: Matt Reed / Expert Market

When it comes to security features, WEX goes the extra mile, too:

  • Each driver is assigned a card with a unique ID, and a PIN code must be entered to use the card.
  • As a business owner, you’ll be able to set spending limits, restrict the type of fuel being purchased, and remotely block cards in the case of misuse.
  • WEX will alert you when it detects unusual activity on the card and, in the case of theft, you can be reimbursed if the card is used fraudulently.

The card can’t be used for toll fees or parking, which can be a nuisance for drivers who need to pay for these things. The Comdata Card, in comparison, allows you to pay for these.

How much does a WEX Fleet Card cost?

A WEX Fleet Card is a great choice for smaller businesses as the upfront costs are low. You can access fuel rebates for as little as $2 per card, per month. There is no minimum spend, but the rebate will increase the more you fill up.

wex fleet fuel cards rebate rates
You'll get between $0.01 and $0.03 rebate per gallon with the WEX Fleet Card. Source: Matt Reed/Expert Market via WEX website

How big is WEX’s station network?

  • The WEX Fleet Card is almost universally accepted, with a network that covers 95% of the US.
  • There are more than 185,000 stations and 45,000 service centers in WEX’s network, encompassing national and regional brands, such as 76, BP, Citgo, ExxonMobil, Gulf, Marathon/Speedway, and Sunoco.
  • Any WEX card – whether it carries the WEX name or a retailer’s brand – is valid at any member station. It is worth noting that not all benefits are available at every station within the network, so you may not be able to score rebates or other savings from all the stations where the card is accepted.

What other perks are there with a WEX Fleet Card?

This card gives you access to the WEX EDGE Savings Network, which offers many features, including data analytics and reporting, GPS tracking and discounts on hotel stays, tires and wireless solutions and accessories.

You can also control your WEX Fleet Card account using its Fleet SmartHub app on mobile. This allows you to look up driver IDs, view/filter transactions for each card, and check for any misuse in the process. If necessary, you can also cancel lost or stolen cards, as well as check your fuel card credit limit.

WEX Fleet SmartHub app on iPhone
Using the WEX Fleet SmartHub should allow fleet managers to keep a keener eye on fuel spending within their fleet. Source: WEX via Google Play Store

If you encounter any bumps in the road with your WEX Fleet Card, you’ll be happy to know that you can contact its Maine-based customer service via 24/7 phone support. WEX’s customer service is also available 24/7 via email.

April 2025 News: Walmart Set To Open 45 Gas Stations in 34 States

Walmart will open or remodel 45 Fuel and Convenience stations across 34 states in 2025, expanding its physical store network and aiming to operate over 450 gas station locations nationwide by year’s end.

Walmart doesn’t offer a gas card at present (only prepaid gas gift cards). However, Walmart+ members do receive $0.10 off per gallon at Exxon and Mobil stations ($0.05 in AL & OK), and up to $0.10 off at select Walmart and Murphy stations, too.

Given its plans to expand its station coverage substantially, Walmart introducing a business gas card isn’t out of the question. Watch this space.

2. Edenred Essentials Best Gas Card for Extra Expenses

Discount per gallon: $0.01 – $0.04

Logo Edenred
Edenred Essentials
Pricing $3 per card monthly
Pros

Can be used for diesel, gasoline and EVs

No extra surcharges when purchasing fuel

Accepted anywhere that accepts Visa

High security

Detailed interactive dashboard showing fuel spend information

Rewards scheme

Can be used for non-fuel purchases

Cons

No fuel price comparison tool

No data on carbon emissions

No station locator

Not possible to pay at pump

Pricing
Card fees Rebate
$3 $0.01 – $0.04 per gallon

Prices correct as of April 2025

Edenred Essentials is an excellent all-rounder. Similar to WEX’s Fleet Card, it has great security features, including purchase alerts, driver ID, PIN codes, and remote fraud protection. This makes it one of the best fuel cards for truckers.

Intuitive dashboards that show you essential stats, such as purchases by time of day, total fuel spent, and the total spend of your drivers, mean you can analyze your company spending when you need to. Plus, you can set spending limit controls and on-hand expense management that allow you to control where money is being spent and when.

How much does an Edenred Essentials card cost?

The Edenred Essentials card will set you back $3 per card per month.

When it comes to rebates, here’s a quick breakdown based on how much fuel you purchase.

  • Your rebate starts at $0.01 per gallon and can reach a maximum of $0.04 per gallon – if your fuel consumption surpasses 30,000 gallons per month.
  • There is an additional rebate of $0.04 per gallon on all fuel purchases at Casey’s General Stores, of which there are 2,400 across the Midwest.
  • In other words, this card will primarily reward larger fleets. However, if you are a smaller fleet with high monthly costs, it may still be an appealing choice.
edenred essentials rebate rates listed on page
Edenred Essential rebate rates vary more than other providers on this page. Source: Matt Reed/Expert Market via Edenred website

Edenred Essentials also allows you to pay for toll fees, engine lubricants, maintenance, parking, and cleaning fees. This is really handy if you want to keep all of your fleet management expenses in one place – and to make the most of Edenred’s accounting features. In that sense, it outshines its competitors, which don’t allow you to spend on all fleet-related costs.

It doesn’t have a price comparison tool, however, which can make it harder to get the best savings on fuel, unlike the WEX Fuel Card, which allows you to do this.

How big is Edenred’s station network?

As Edenred is accepted anywhere that accepts Visa, its network is as vast as WEX’s.

However, unlike its competitor, it does not feature a station locator tool, but since Visa has a wide acceptance rate, your drivers won’t find it difficult to find somewhere to fill up.

What other perks are there with an Edenred Essentials card?

The best gas cards come with a range of perks, and Edenred Essentials is no different.

Here’s a breakdown of each of the perks you can receive:

  • A free Costco membership – which usually costs $60 a year – is perfect for drivers who need a pick-me-up on their travels.
  • Both Spanish and English versions of the app and desktop platform, which is perfect for bilingual fleets.
  • EV charging coverage alongside gasoline and diesel, ensuring that Edenred can grow alongside fleets that are moving towards electric vehicles.
  • US-based team, meaning whether you’re an existing cardholder or a prospective client, you can reach Edenred’s team via phone. Its corporate office is based in Massachusetts, so it’s good to know you can speak to someone on home soil.

However, Edenred Essentials doesn’t do gas price comparison, unlike the WEX Fleet card, and it doesn’t let drivers pay for gas at the pump, making it slightly less convenient to use.

April 2025 News: Sam's Club Extends Gas Station Hours

Sam’s Club – another fuel card provider featured on our business credit cards with gas rewards roundup – has extended the operating hours of its gas stations at 90% of its locations, following similar changes by Costco. Most Sam’s Club gas stations now open at 6am and close one hour later than usual, providing added convenience for drivers.

3. Comdata Card Best App for Fleet Drivers

Discount per gallon: $0.07 – $0.25

Comdata Card
Pricing $8 monthly per card
Strengths

Comes with an excellent app, FleetAdvance, which helps truckers find cheap fuel

Gives you access to a variety of useful tools and apps

Get 65% off tires and retreads

Weaknesses

Higher fees than some competitors

No carbon emissions data

No PIN-code security feature

Pricing
Card FeesRebate
$8 per month $0.07–$0.25 per gallon

Prices correct as of April 2025

How much does a Comdata Card cost?

The Comdata Card is the most expensive option on our list. Here’s a quick breakdown of the costs:

  • A one-time setup fee of $50.
  • A monthly fee of $8 per card.
  • Rebates of $0.07-$.025 off per gallon, higher than its competitors.
  • Credit limit of $4,000, depending on your credit rating.

However, keep in mind that its station network is relatively small and rebates only apply at TA Petro, Pilot Flying J, Love’s, AMBEST, Speedway, and 7-Eleven locations.

By contrast, WEX is accepted at 95% of gas stations, and the Edenred Essentials card anywhere that accepts Visa, thereby covering a lot of ground. So, even though the Comdata card offers higher rebates on gas than these two competitors, you may not encounter as many opportunities to earn them.

If you are a smaller business looking for a cheaper option, the Shell Business Card might suit your needs better.

How big is Comdata’s station network?

At 15,000 stations, the Comdata Card does have decent network coverage, better than Shell or ExxonMobil, so your drivers shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a station with this card.

Through the DRIVEN FOR COMDATA app, drivers can easily find the location of relevant stations (as well as check balances, transfer funds, and monitor transactions).

comdata smartphone application showing a map of fuel prices at US gas stations on the comdata app
Something useful Comdata offers is its DRIVEN FOR COMDATA app, which we found incredibly handy to see where the cheapest gas is located in the local area. Source: Expert Market

That being said, if your fleet travels far and wide, and coverage is a top priority, you can opt for the WEX Fleet Card or Edenred Essentials, which have the most extensive coverage among the providers on this list.

What other perks are there with a Comdata Card?

There are significant perks when signing up with Comdata. In addition to generous fuel rebates at selected filling stations, you can also access discounts on tires, hotel stays and parking with the Extra Mile Discount Program.

To save your drivers time, they can also benefit from the Comdata CAT Scale, which is an easy, automated way to locate and pay for CAT Scale transactions, allowing them to skip waiting in line and get on their way.

Comdata’s corporate HQ is in Tennessee, which means if you’re calling customer service, you’ll be able to speak to someone based in the US.

Compare Personalized Quotes From the Best Fleet Card Providers for Your Business.
April 2025 News: Shell Rebrand Business Fuel Cards

As you’ll read in the mini-review below, Shell has retired its fuel cards and launched two new offerings: the Shell Card Business and Shell Card Business Flex.

These upgraded cards come with the same tiered rebates (so you might consider this more of a rebrand in some respects). However, they have removed the max gallons limit for rebates, increased Jiffy Lube discounts and Fuel Rewards, plus improved spend tracking and EV support via WEX software.

4. Shell Business Card – Best Gas Card for Small Fleets

Discount per gallon: Up to $0.06 (depending on volume)

Shell Logo
Shell Business Card
Pricing Zero fees
Strengths

Can be used for both gasoline and diesel purchases

No card fees

No surcharges

Drivers can conveniently pay-at-pump

Weaknesses

No fuel price comparison feature to ensure you are getting the best price

No insight into fuel spend data

Card does not require a PIN-code to be used

Cannot measure fuel efficiency

No loyalty program or notable perks

Pricing
Card feesRebate
Zero $0.02–$0.06 per gallon

Prices correct as of April 2025

How much does a Shell Business Card cost?

The Shell Business Card is designed for small businesses, so it doesn’t have fees like other providers we’ve reviewed.

There are no card fees, minimum spend requirements, or surcharges.

What gas rebate rates does the Shell Business Card offer?

Rebates are tiered, and unlike the old Shell Small Business Card, there’s now no maximum gallon limit, meaning your rebate rate continues to climb even as your fleet scales. Previously, there was a 20,000-gallon per billing cycle limit for the maximum $0.06 rate; now anything over 10,001 gallons will be rated for $0.06 per gallon.

These rebates apply to purchases at Shell locations only. Although Shell also offers the Shell Card Business Flex, which includes bonus rebates at select Shell stations and works across 95% of gas stations, the Shell Card Business is designed to keep things simple for smaller fleets that refuel primarily at Shell.

shell small business flex card rebate rates in a list
The Shell Card Business Flex offers rebate rates of up to $0.06. Source: Expert Market via Shell website

How big is Shell’s station network?

The Shell Business Card can be used at around 13,000 stations across the US. For a free card aimed at smaller fleets, this is still great coverage (even if it is the smallest on this page). You can view where these stations are using Shell’s Service Station Locator website or its Driver Dash App for mobile, a very important feature that even some paid cards do not offer (Edenred Essentials, we’re looking at you).

If a wider station extent is what you’re looking for, however, consider the options from WEX and Edenred, which have wider coverage.

Shell station map of the US, Canada and Mexico
Using Shell's Service Station Locator tool, you can easily see if there's solid coverage in the areas you drive within most often. Source: Matt Reed/Expert Market via Shell website

What other perks are there with a Shell Business Card?

Similarly, in terms of extra perks, the Shell Business Card is a somewhat basic choice. However, its package has improved compared with the old Shell Small Business Card. The new and improved Shell Business Card includes access to:

  • Jiffy Lube Fleet Program: Up to 20% off maintenance services (previously 15% with the old Shell card).
  • 24/7 fleet rescue roadside assistance with mobile payment support.
  • Optional enrollment in fuel rewards, offering extra savings for personal and work-related fuel purchases (previously, there were no additional perks on offer).

A bigger change is that you now have improved online account management and spending oversight – features that were notably absent in the old Shell Small Business Card.​ The key improvements are:

  • Shell Account Manager Portal: This online platform offers real-time access to transaction data, enabling fleet managers to monitor and control spending effectively. ​
  • ClearView Analytics: Provides detailed reports on fuel usage and expenses, facilitating informed decision-making and cost optimization. ​
  • Mobile accessibility: With tools like the WEX Fleet SmartHub, since this is a WEX-backed card, users can manage accounts, set spending limits, and track driver expenditures from anywhere, enhancing operational flexibility.
shell fleet hub on different devices
The Shell Fleet Hub's real time transaction reporting and other insights can be accessed across different devices. Source: Expert Market via Shell website

Good To Know: Shell US is headquartered in Kentucky. If you encounter any troubles along the road with your fleet gas card, it’s helpful to know you can speak to someone US-based via customer service.

April 2025 News: Shell launches Rotella Fuel Card with major savings

A little before Shell’s rollout of those two fuel cards, Shell launched the Shell Rotella Fuel Card for truckers, fleet drivers and owner-operators, in partnership with Multi Service Fuel Card.

Designed for use across 8,900+ locations in the US and Canada, the cost-free card offers up to a massive $0.45 per gallon savings, 24/7 premium customer support, and real-time diesel price tracking via the mobile app. Users can also earn 1 MyMilesMatter point per gallon, redeemable for gift cards and Rotella merch, while accessing custom credit lines, fraud protection via one-time PINs, and flexible billing tools tailored to growing fleets.

The card also supports non-fuel purchases and cash access for repairs and towing, giving drivers and fleet managers a full-service solution with added transparency and rewards.

5. ExxonMobil BusinessPro Card – Best Gas Card for Customizability

Discount per gallon: $0.06

ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil BusinessPro Card
Pricing $2 per card monthly
Strengths

No membership or monthly fees if you only use Exxon and Mobil stations

Issued by WEX, which means you can use WEX's apps (including DriverDash and WEX Connect)

You can earn bigger rebates with ExxonMobil Rewards+

Weaknesses

ExxonMobil gas stations are sparser on the West coast

Additional fees apply when you sign up to carry a balance or boost station coverage

No restriction on the type of fuel purchased

Pricing
Card feesRebate
$2 per card monthly Up to $0.06 per gallon

Prices correct as of April 2025

How much does an ExxonMobil BusinessPro Card cost?

With the Fuel Anywhere option, the ExxonMobil BusinessPro card costs $2 per card, per month, the joint-second cheapest option on this list, after the Shell Business Card, which has no fees.

You’ll score volume-based fuel rebates as you fill up with the ExxonMobil BusinessPro. The more you fill, the more you earn back, but it’ll average at $0.04 per gallon. The good news is that there is no minimum spend to achieve these savings.

If you opt solely for Exxon or Mobil stations, you’ll be able to access the same rebates and you’ll avoid paying card fees. So, it’s up to you whether to opt for greater savings or a more extensive station network.

It’s important to note that the card doesn’t restrict the type of fuel purchased, which can leave you open to potential unauthorized use. Both Comdata and Edenred provide this service if needed.

business pro card rates: Monthly Gallons at Exxon and Mobil Rebate Per Gallon† 1-500 1¢ 500-3,999 3¢ 4,000-6,999 4¢ 7,000-9,999 5¢ 10,000+ 6¢
ExxonMobil's BusinessPro Card offers the best rebate rates for small businesses. Source: Matt Reed/Expert Market via ExxonMobil website

How big is ExxonMobil’s station network?

ExxonMobil is great for flexibility. With this card, you’ll be given two options.

  • Exxon and Mobil stations, which give you access to 12,000+ gas stations in the US.
  • Fuel Anywhere, which covers 95% of US stations (roughly 185,000 stations).

Keep in mind that Exxon stations are sparser on the West Coast, so Fuel Anywhere may be a better option if you need larger coverage there. But, if you do live in an area that has a lot of Exxon and Mobil stations, you might want to forgo the Fuel Anywhere option, since doing this removes membership and monthly fees.

map of Exxon Mobil stations in the Dallas, US
ExxonMobil's gas station map works a little differently to others, in that you need to select your location for a radius of potential spots to appear, rather than be able to see all stations at once. Source: Expert Market

What other perks are there with an ExxonMobil BusinessPro card?

With an ExxonMobil BusinessPro card, you’ll receive fuel rebates and also gain access to its loyalty program. ExxonMobil’s Rewards+ Points are collected every time you spend on fuel, convenience store items, and car washes.

For reference, each gallon of fuel you buy earns you back three points, and you’ll also earn two points for every dollar spent on non-fuel items. Once you hit 100 points, this is a dollar you can spend at the pump or in the convenience store. Simply put, you can earn as you spend and rack up a pretty nice amount of savings.

WEX is the issuer of the ExxonMobil BusinessPro cards so, as with the WEX Fleet Card, you’d contact WEX in the case of support or sales enquiries. Luckily, this means that you can speak to someone US-based, as WEX’s headquarters are in Maine.

April 2025 News: SoCalGas Launches Fuel Card Program

The Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) has introduced a $30,000 fuel card program designed to support the transition to cleaner fuels.

Aligned with the California Air Resources Board’s Scoping Plan for carbon neutrality, this initiative aims to decrease the demand for petroleum fuels, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. ​

Learn more about areas where your fleet can save on costs in our Fleet Lifecycle Management guide.

Gas Card Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know

In this section, we will explain how to find the best gas card, and what the overall impact on your business might be.

How do gas cards work?

Business owners or fleet operation managers give their drivers gas cards to allow them to purchase fuel and other vehicle maintenance services on the road. Crucially, they can control the spending on each card and track exactly what each driver is doing while out on the road.

This is important for two reasons:

  • It gives you oversight of every transaction and allows you to plan your fuel expenses efficiently, saving money in the process.
  • It protects you from fraud and unauthorized use by drivers, which can cause damage to your revenue and business reputation.

How to find the best gas card

Not sure where to start? We’ve laid out the step-by-step process of finding your best-suited fleet card.

1. Credit check for eligibility

First, check your credit score to see what cards you’ll qualify for. You can get a free copy of your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com, Equifax, or TransUnion. If you have a poor credit score, you still have options. Some providers are less strict than others, and pre-paid cards require no credit check at all.

2. Consider the specific requirements of your company

No two fuel cards are the same. Some are made with large fleets in mind, while others are geared towards smaller businesses. Look out for card fees and the savings you can make on gas through rebates or fixed tariff rates. You should also consider factors such as the gas station network – some cards have near-universal US coverage, while some are more limited to a specific area.

3. Research your options

Once you’ve understood what you are looking for in a gas card, you can begin to search through the available options. There are a lot of choices out there, so this can be a time-consuming process. You can speed up this stage by using our free comparison tool. Just answer a few simple questions and we’ll match you with providers who suit your needs.

4. Check for extra perks

While fuel cards can help you save on gas purchases, they can also offer extra perks that help drive extra savings. Some providers offer accounting features and insights into fuel consumption and miles per gallon. And some cards are valid for purchasing non-fuel-related products, such as engine lubricants, tires, cleaning and parking fees, or can grant you access to savings on hotel stays, food and other extras.

5. Submit your application

Applying for a gas card is usually a straightforward process done online, over the phone, or by mail. Following a successful application, you should receive your card within 7-10 business days.

How much money can you save using a gas card?

It’s worth getting a gas card because of the savings you can make on fuel, with minimal investment on your part. In today’s economic climate, every cent counts, so it makes sense to take advantage of gas rebates, expense management features, and extra discounts. Fuel cards are often between $2-$4 per month, and some are even free, so you have little to lose and a lot to gain.

While there are loads of cards on the market, we’ve done extensive research and market studies to find out the cost and savings associated with each provider.

You can generally expect savings of up to 15% when you switch to a dedicated fuel card. To understand just how much you can save with a fleet card, see the table below:

Cost Savings for a Small Fleet
Fleet size35 vehicles
Volume per fill16 gallons
Refueling stops2 per week
Gas card saving per gallon2.5 cents
Weekly savings$17.43
Yearly savings$906.85

Note: The figures presented in this table are estimates. For an accurate quote, we recommend you compare free tailored quotes from leading fleet card suppliers.

While gas cards are for these types of companies, different providers tend to cater to specific niches within the industry through certain features, perks, and pricing structures. If your fleet has less than 50 vehicles, consider a small business fuel card to get tailored options for your business requirements.

Can I stop my drivers from using a gas card for their personal fuel purchases?

To avoid drivers using gas cards for personal purchases, some cards allow you to track how fuel is being used.

For instance, WEX fuel cards require the driver to enter the mileage and a personal PIN when pumping gas. This records exactly how much fuel is being used with the card and if it doesn’t match up to the fuel required, you’ll know that it’s being used elsewhere.

You can often also make your drivers submit receipts to the relevant gas card’s mobile application.

These features will vary depending on the fuel card you choose, so it’s worth discussing with a relevant gas card provider what options there are to protect you against this.

What Is the Difference Between Gas Cards and Credit Cards?

A gas card is like a credit card in a lot of ways. Here are a couple of their similarities:

  • They both allow you to pay with credit at the pump and can give you cash back for purchases your drivers make. Some also offer cash back on travel expenses, such as car rentals, airlines, and hotels.
  • Fuel credit cards can also improve your credit rating, just like a regular credit card. So, if you pay your fleet’s balance on time every month, you can boost your eligibility for all kinds of loans. On the other hand, if you carry a balance beyond the repayment date, you’ll be hit with eye-watering APRs.
  • They look similar. Both will be plastic cards that can fit in a wallet.

All that said, some pretty big differences mean fuel cards are considered an alternative payment method to credit cards.

The main differences between business gas cards and credit cards are:

  • Gas cards have shorter payment terms than credit cards.
  • On a gas card, no rolling balance is cleared (or partially cleared) each month.
  • Fuel isn’t typically paid at the point of sale when using a gas card – the bill is sent to your account to be paid at a later date.
  • Controls can be set up on gas cards to only allow the purchase of certain grades of fuel (e.g. petrol, petrol & gas, etc.).
  • Fuel spending limits can be applied using SmartChip technology on some gas cards.
  • Liability for fraudulent purchases lies with the driver using the gas card.
  • Card terminals for gas cards are separate from those for credit cards (bunkered cards only).
  • Some gas card providers let you buy non-fuel products, including lubricants and AdBlue.

Should I get a gas card or a credit card?

If you have a fleet of vehicles, a gas card is likely a better option than a credit card due to the enhanced security, control, and fuel savings.

Gas cards are intended for purchasing fuel and maintenance services at gas stations and auto repair shops. On top of fuel discounts, they offer rewards on gas purchases and streamlined accounting for fleets. However, they can only be used for fuel and fleet-related purchases, nothing else.

On the other hand, credit cards can be used anywhere that accepts credit cards. You’ll earn rewards (cashback, points, etc.) on all purchases, including gas and maintenance services. However, the rewards earned on gas may be lower than a specialized gas card.

Additionally, the added security that fuel cards offer, such as ID verification and spending limits, as well as detailed analytics on fuel usage, makes them ideal for fleet managers looking to enhance their expense management.

Can a gas card help build my credit score?

A gas card can help you build a positive credit score, as long as you meet certain criteria:

  • The gas card must report to one of the three major consumer credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion.
  • You must pay your balance in full by the due date as per your contract with the card provider to demonstrate to lenders that you are reliable and trustworthy. Otherwise, this can have a detrimental effect on your credit score.
  • The gas card shouldn’t be prepaid. Prepaid cards do not count towards your credit score as they do not work with credit, but rather pre-loaded funds.

What credit score do I need to get a gas card?

Most gas cards require a “Good” to “Excellent” credit score of a minimum of 690 to be approved. There are, of course, some exceptions, as some providers are a little more relaxed with their requirements. If you have a lower score, you may want to consider a prepaid card, such as the Shell Refillable Card, to avoid the hassle of credit scores entirely.

No credit check?

No problem, read how to get a business fuel card without a credit check.

How Expert Market Evaluates Gas Cards

We researched 13 fleet fuel cards to evaluate them in terms of how affordable they are, and if they have features that can help control and manage fuel spending, all so we could provide the most useful recommendations to US fleets.

Our rigorous testing process means these cards have been scored and rated in five main categories of investigation and 13 subcategories – this means 43 areas of investigation in total. We then gave each category score a “relevance weighting” to ensure the product's final score perfectly reflects the needs and requirements of Expert Market readers – and that's our algorithm.

Our main testing categories for fleet fuel cards are:

  • Security: Refers to the measures in place by the card provider to ensure the safety and protection of your information.
  • Customer support: Includes the assistance the card provider offers, such as phone support, email or chat support, documentation, knowledge bases, and online forums.
  • Expense management: Refers to the features of the fleet fuel card, such as transaction tracking, expense reporting, receipt storage, integration with accounting systems, and customizable expense categories.
  • Convenience: Refers to the ease of use and accessibility of the fleet fuel card, including factors such as the acceptance network of gas stations, availability, price comparison tool, contactless payment at pumps, and more.
  • Card specific information: Refers to the details associated with the fleet fuel card itself, such as card fees, accepted fuel type, card type, fee structure, network coverage, plus the cards' potential to pay for items and services other than gas.
Verdict

Our research has found that the WEX Fleet Card is the best overall gas card. This card can be used at 95% of US gas stations, and it includes useful apps for drivers, such as DriverDash mobile payments, which maximize convenience.

WEX’s fuel rebates are fairly low, so if your business uses a large amount of fuel, a better option could be the ExxonMobil BusinessPro Card, as it offers large rebates for higher fuel usage. Alternatively, the Comdata Card can be a great option for the highest fuel rebates, but you will only have access to a smaller network of stations.

If you want to compare other fleet card providers, you can use our free comparison tool. Just give us a few details about your business and we’ll do the rest. You’ll then be contacted by trusted providers with obligation-free quotes.

Written by:
Matt Reed is a Senior Communications and Logistics Expert at Expert Market. Adept at evaluating products, he focuses mainly on assessing fleet management and business communication software. Matt began his career in technology publishing with Expert Reviews, where he spent several years putting the latest audio-related products and releases through their paces, revealing his findings in transparent, in-depth articles and guides. Holding a Master’s degree in Journalism from City, University of London, Matt is no stranger to diving into challenging topics and summarising them into practical, helpful information.
Reviewed by:
Maïté Bouhali
Maite began her career with Expert Market nearly four years ago as a writer. She quickly developed a passion for the challenges faced by small businesses and now endeavours to help them make informed decisions for their future. In her current position as Business Software Editor, Maite works closely with writers to ensure that each article is informative, well-researched, engaging, and actionable for readers. With extensive knowledge of CRM, vehicle tracking devices, and fuel cards, she is meticulous in her review of each article and provides detailed feedback before publication. Whether you're seeking to stay informed on the latest trends in business software or need guidance in selecting the most appropriate software for your organisation's needs, Maite is here to help. With her sharp eye for detail and commitment to quality, she is dedicated to supporting businesses in achieving their goals.

Save by Comparing Fleet Card Prices

Get quotes from:

  • coast logo with blue accent icon before text

Save money on Fuel in 3 simple steps!

1. Leave the hassle to us

Complete our short form in under a minute

2. We're completely free

Receive free quotes from leading brands

3. Save time & money

Save by comparing quotes

FAQs

What is a Fleet Card?
Also known as gas cards or fuel cards, fleet cards give businesses that run vehicles an easy way to pay for gas and diesel. Fleet cards tend to work like credit cards: your employees use them to pay for fuel at stations, and at the end of each month, you’ll pay off the amount that your drivers have spent. If you prefer, it’s also possible to get prepaid fuel cards, which work more like gift cards: you pre-load them up with a sum of money, and your employees use that money to pay for their fuel.Fleet cards come with cost controls, so you can limit how much your employees spend, when they use the cards, and even what they use the cards to pay for. They also come with helpful fraud prevention measures.
Who are the top providers?
There’s a vast range of Fleet Card suppliers out there so it’s hard to narrow down exactly which is right for your business. We highly recommend Wex as one of the top suppliers available. We’re also big fans of TreviPay, Fuelman and Shell. Finding out which option is right for your business is the most important step, which is why we match you with the best options for you.
How do we work?
Our free quote-matching service is quick and easy to use:
  1. We’ll ask you a few questions about your business, so we can understand what you need.
  2. We’ll use your answers to match you with up to five trusted suppliers. This is why we ask for your contact details. Your details are safe with us – we are fully GDPR compliant and we’ll only ever match you with suppliers that we know can cater to your needs.
  3. Your matched suppliers will get in touch with you, so you can ask questions and receive quotes tailored directly for your needs. You’ll then be armed with all of the information you need to confidently compare, and choose from.