Fuel Cards
Getting One
How do you get a fuel card?
CheckFuelPrices Editorial
Expert Written • 4 industry sources
You get a fuel card by applying directly with a provider online — most UK business fuel cards are approved within 24–48 hours. Fuel cards are primarily designed for businesses and sole traders operating one or more vehicles, and most major providers offer a straightforward online application.
Who Can Get a Fuel Card
Businesses and sole traders:
Fuel cards are available to any UK-registered business, from sole traders with a single van to large fleets with hundreds of vehicles.
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Credit check required:
Most providers run a basic business credit check during the application. A new or limited credit history may result in a prepaid fuel card option instead of a credit account.
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Not widely available to private individuals:
Most fuel cards are not designed for personal use. Private drivers are better served by finding the cheapest local station using CheckFuelPrices.
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How to Apply
Apply online with the provider:
Shell, BP, Allstar, and most major providers have online application forms that take around 10 minutes to complete.
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What you'll need:
You typically need your company registration number, business address, VAT number if registered, and an estimate of monthly fuel spend.
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Card delivered by post:
Once approved, cards are usually posted within 3–5 working days. Some providers offer faster delivery for larger fleets.
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Choosing the Right Card
Network coverage matters most:
Pick a card accepted at stations on your drivers' usual routes. Shell and BP cards are restricted to their own networks; Allstar and similar multi-network cards cover far more sites.
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Fixed weekly price vs pump price:
Some cards lock in a fixed weekly price per litre, which can save money versus paying at the pump — compare the pricing model before applying.
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Check the pump price first:
Before committing to a card tied to a specific brand, use CheckFuelPrices to see whether that brand's stations are actually competitively priced in your area.
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Get Started
Compare station prices near your depot:
Use CheckFuelPrices to check live petrol and diesel prices at every station near your base — useful context when evaluating which card network offers the best value.
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Revisit prices regularly:
Fuel prices change frequently. Even with a fuel card, checking live pump prices ensures your drivers are filling up at the most cost-effective sites within the network.
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Sources
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