How to Get a Fuel Card Quick Checklist
- ABN
- Driver’s licence
- Business contact details
- Bank account details
- Vehicle or driver info (if needed)
What is a Fuel Card and Why Get One?
A fuel card is a dedicated payment card for buying fuel and car-related items for your business vehicles. It’s like a credit card, but just for fuel, and it’s designed to make life easier for anyone running a business, whether you’re a sole trader with one car or managing a whole fleet.
With a fuel card, you can get discounts every time you fill up, keep your receipts all in one place, and make tax time a lot simpler. Many cards also offer rewards, like Flybuys with Shell Card, or extra perks such as roadside assistance with FleetCard.
How Easy is it to Get a Fuel Card in Australia?
Getting a fuel card in Australia is simple. Most providers let you apply online, and you don’t need to jump through a lot of hoops. If you have an active ABN and you’re over 18, you’re already halfway there. Some cards are open to brand new businesses and sole traders, while others prefer you’ve been trading between 6 – 12 months. After you apply, approval usually takes just a few days, and your card arrives by mail soon after.
What You Need to Apply for a Fuel Card
Applying for a fuel card doesn’t require a mountain of paperwork. Here’s what you’ll usually need:
- Your Australian Business Number (ABN)
- A driver’s licence or other photo ID
- Some basic details about your business (name, address, contact info)
- Your business bank account details (for direct debit)
- Details of your vehicles or drivers (for some cards)
TIP: If you’re just starting out, Shell Card is often the easiest to get – there’s no minimum trading history.
How to Apply for a Fuel Card Step By Step
1. Pick the right card for your needs.
Decide if you want a card for one brand (like Shell, for bigger discounts) or a card you can use almost anywhere (like FleetCard, for flexibility).
2. Gather your info
You’ll need your ABN, driver’s licence, bank details, and sometimes info about your vehicles or drivers.
3. Apply for a fuel card online
Most fuel card providers have a quick online form. It usually takes less than 10 minutes to fill out.
4. Credit check
Most providers will check your credit history. If your business is new, you might get shorter payment terms at first, but these can be extended as you build a track record.
5. Wait for approval
Approval usually takes a few business days. Once you’re approved, your card will be mailed out to you.
6. Activate your card and start saving.
When your card arrives, just activate it online or by phone, and you’re ready to go.
What Types of Fuel Cards Can You Get?
There are two main types of fuel cards in Australia: single-brand cards (like Shell Card, BP Plus Card, or AmpolCard) and all-brand cards (like FleetCard or WEX Motorpass). Single-brand cards usually give you bigger discounts, but all-brand cards let you fill up almost anywhere.
Popular Fuel Card Providers in Australia
- Shell Card: Great for new businesses and sole traders. Up to 7c/L discount for the first 6 months, then 2–4c/L ongoing. Accepted at Shell, Coles Express, Liberty, and OTR.
- FleetCard: Accepted at over 6,000 stations, with a promo discount of 6c/l at Shell and 3c/L discount at Ampol and 7 Eleven. Ongoing savings of up to 3c/l. Good for businesses that travel a lot or need flexibility.
- BP Plus: Best for businesses that mostly use BP. Up to 6c/L promo, then 2–3c/L ongoing.
- AmpolCard: 5c/L promo, then 2–4c/L ongoing. Accepted at Ampol and Caltex.
- WEX Motorpass: Accepted at 6,500+ stations. Smaller discounts, but very flexible.
How Much Can You Save with a Fuel Card?
The amount you save depends on your card and how much you drive. Shell Card and FleetCard usually offer the best ongoing discounts for most businesses.
Here’s an example based on using 1,000 litres of fuel per month:
| Card | Ongoing Discount | Monthly Saving (1,000L) | Yearly Saving (1,000L/mo) |
| 🔥FleetCard | 1–3c/L | $10–$30 | $120–$360 |
| 🔥Shell Card | 2–4c/L | $20–$40 | $240–$480 |
| BP Plus | 2–3c/L | $20–$30 | $240–$360 |
| AmpolCard | 2–4c/L | $20–$40 | $240–$480 |
| WEX Motorpass | 1c/L | $10 | $120 |
So, if your business uses about 1,000 litres a month, a Shell Card could save you up to $480 per year, while FleetCard could save up to $360. The exact savings will depend on the card, your fuel type, and how much you use.
Who Can Get a Fuel Card? (Sole Traders, Small Businesses, Large Fleets)
Any Australian business with an ABN can get a fuel card. That includes sole traders, partnerships, companies, and large fleets. Some cards are easier for new businesses to get than others.
- Sole traders: Shell Card is a top pick – no minimum trading history, no bond, and you can collect Flybuys.
- Small businesses: Most cards are open to you, but some (like BP Plus or AmpolCard) want to see about 6 months of trading.
- Large fleets: FleetCard and WEX Motorpass offer the most flexibility and the best controls for managing lots of vehicles.
What Else Can You Use a Fuel Card For?
Fuel cards aren’t just for petrol. Depending on your provider, you can often use your card for things like car washes, oil, tolls, and sometimes even snacks or drinks at the servo. Most cards let you set controls on what can be bought, so you stay in charge.
Other handy extras include:
- Rewards programs (like Flybuys or Qantas Points)
- Roadside assistance
- Detailed expense reports for tax time
- Spending controls and fraud protection
How Long Does It Take to Get a Fuel Card?
It’s usually quick. Most fuel cards are approved in a few business days, and your card will arrive in the mail within a week or two. Once it’s in your hands, just activate it and you’re ready to fill up.
Is a Fuel Card Worth It for Your Business?
If you drive for work, a fuel card can save you money, time, and a lot of admin hassle. The best value usually comes from cards like Shell Card and FleetCard, which offer good discounts, wide acceptance, and handy extras. For most businesses, the savings and convenience make a fuel card well worth it.
Don’t Miss Out on Easy Savings
If you’re running a business – big or small – a fuel card can help you cut costs, manage expenses, and keep things simple. Comparing your options only takes a few minutes and could save you hundreds each year.
Check your eligibility, compare fuel cards, and start saving today. Shell Card and FleetCard are great starting points, but the best choice is the one that fits your business perfectly. Get started now and see how much you could save.
Enquire to save
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a fuel card if my business is new?
Yes. Shell Card and some others don’t require a minimum trading history, though you might start with shorter payment terms.
Do I need a good credit history to get a fuel card?
Most providers will check your credit, but new businesses can still qualify, sometimes with a deposit or shorter payment terms.
Are fuel cards tax deductible?
Yes. Fuel card expenses are tax deductible for business use, and the monthly statements make GST and BAS reporting much easier.
Can I use a fuel card for personal fuel?
No. Fuel cards are for business use only, and you’ll need an ABN to apply.
*Fuel discounts and any fees listed are indicative only and subject to change. Actual savings often depend on factors such as business usage, monthly spend, card type, and provider terms. Always check with your chosen fuel card provider for the most up-to-date rates and eligibility criteria.
