You don’t need a credit card to start saving on gas. Many drivers—especially debit users, the unbanked, or those avoiding credit—are surprised to learn that fuel rewards programs still work without tying them to a bank-issued card. From grocery-linked discounts to digital gift card strategies, there are plenty of ways to unlock fuel savings using just loyalty programs and a smartphone.
Here’s how to make the most of fuel rewards without ever swiping a credit card.
- Join Free Loyalty Programs
Several major gas brands offer free loyalty programs that don’t require a credit card to sign up or use. You can register with just your phone number or email, then enter your account info at the pump to redeem savings.
Examples:
- Shell Fuel Rewards: Join for free and instantly earn 5¢/gal off with Gold Status. You’ll maintain your discount as long as you use the program once per six months. Discounts apply when you enter your phone number at the pump—no card needed.
- Speedway Speedy Rewards: Earn points on fuel and in-store purchases, redeemable for free gas and merchandise. Use the app or physical card (not a credit card) to scan your ID and earn.
- Exxon Mobil Rewards+: Enroll online or in the app, then simply enter your Alt ID (phone number) to earn points on fuel and convenience store items.
These programs are designed to be inclusive, and most let you earn and redeem rewards using just a phone number or app-based digital ID.
- Use Gift Cards as a Payment Method
One of the best ways to earn rewards and stay card-free is to use digital gift cards—especially if you buy them through cashback platforms like Fluz. Fluz lets you purchase gift cards to major gas stations and earn cashback instantly.
For example:
- Buy a Shell gift card on Fluz, then pay at the pump using the code.
- Shop discounted Chevron gift cards before fueling up.
- Save money on Speedway using prepaid credit from Fluz.
These gift cards can be stored in the Fluz app and used at the pump or inside the store—no bank account or credit line required.
- Use Mobile Apps Instead of Plastic
Most fuel rewards programs now offer app-based experiences that eliminate the need for physical cards altogether. This makes it even easier for non-credit users to participate in discounts and promotions.
App-based features to look for:
- Alt ID entry: Enter your phone number instead of swiping a card
- QR or barcode scan: Apps like Speedway and Exxon Mobil Rewards+ let you scan your loyalty ID from your phone
- Mobile gift card storage: Use apps like Fluz to keep all your gas station credits in one place
This setup works especially well when combined with grocery fuel points programs (like Kroger Fuel Points) or Safeway for U, which tie into gas discounts at stations like Shell, Chevron, and Texaco.
Final Thoughts
Credit cards aren’t required to unlock fuel savings. Loyalty programs, mobile apps, and prepaid gift cards offer simple workarounds that still deliver value—often without the risks or obligations of credit. Whether you’re unbanked, debit-only, or just prefer to avoid credit use, you can still rack up rewards, stack savings, and take full advantage of every mile driven.
