Fuel costs eat into your profits with every mile. The right fuel card helps you save with exclusive discounts, smarter expense tracking, and better control over your bottom line. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to apply for a fuel card and why the OTR Fuel Card is built to deliver real savings for truckers and owner-operators alike.
Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Fuel Card
Before you apply, take time to research your options. Not all fuel cards are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your savings and convenience.
Understand Your Business Needs
Start by identifying what your operation requires from a fuel card. Your business structure, fleet size, and daily needs will shape which card makes the most sense.
Key considerations:
- Size of your operation and number of trucks
- Owner-operator vs. fleet
- Need for additional features like maintenance discounts or cash advances
- Required reporting capabilities for expense tracking
- Integration with other financial or dispatch tools
Think about whether you need detailed reporting, spending controls, or ease of use across multiple drivers and vehicles.
Check Fuel Station Acceptance
A fuel card is only as useful as the network it’s tied to. Make sure the card is accepted at fuel stations and truck stops you actually use.
What to look for:
- Size and coverage of the acceptance network
- Locations along your regular lanes and regional routes
- Access to major truck stops (Pilot, TA, CircleK etc.)
- Emergency fueling options in rural or remote areas
The OTR Fuel Card gives you access to over 2,500 in-network locations and 8,000 stations nationwide, ensuring you can refuel where and when you need to with confidence.
Look for the Right Features
Focus on features that deliver real value to your operation rather than flashy benefits that don’t impact your bottom line or daily operations.
Top features to prioritize:
- Per-gallon fuel discounts
- Driver-level spending controls
- Real-time transaction reports and tracking
- Mobile apps for route and fuel planning
- $0 transaction fees to maximize savings
One standout feature of the OTR Fuel Card is its average discount of $0.50 per gallon, with some users saving up to $2.25 per gallon.
Step 2: Gather Required Information and Documents
Before starting your application, gather key business and personal details. Having everything ready helps you complete the process quickly and avoid delays.
Business information you’ll typically need:
- Business name and address
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Contact information
- Fleet size or number of trucks
Personal information for verification may include:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Date of birth
- Valid driver’s license
Some providers may perform a credit check as part of the approval process. Others offer options regardless of credit history, especially helpful for newer owner-operators or those rebuilding credit.
If you’re concerned about credit requirements, we offer fuel cards for truckers with bad credit. Contact our team to explore our fuel card options and determine which one best suits your business and needs.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Most fuel card applications are digital and straightforward. When you’re ready to apply, the process typically involves filling out an online form.
To make the process as smooth as possible:
- Provide accurate and up-to-date business and personal information
- Double-check all fields before submitting
- Have your documents ready to avoid delays
- Complete the application in one sitting, if possible
Take your time to ensure accuracy, as any discrepancies can delay approval. Most applications can be completed in just a few minutes with proper preparation.
Review Terms and Conditions
Before submitting, take time to review the card’s terms so you fully understand the costs and limitations.
Key terms to check:
- Transaction fee structure at different station types
- Monthly or annual fees
- Spending limits and purchase restrictions
- Network acceptance and geographic limitations
OTR’s fuel card application is straightforward, and with $0 transaction fees at in-network stations, you’re not paying just to save money.
Step 4: Submit and Await Approval
After submitting your application, approval timelines vary by provider. Some cards offer instant approval, while others may take a few business days to process your request.
During this time, avoid submitting multiple applications to different providers, as this can affect your credit score if credit checks are involved. Be patient and wait for a response before exploring other options.
Step 5: Activate Your Card
Once your card arrives, follow the provided instructions for activation. This usually involves calling a phone number or visiting a website to verify your identity and account details.
Activation steps typically include:
- Calling the activation phone number or visiting the website
- Verifying your identity with personal information
- Setting up your account login credentials
- Reviewing account features and spending limits
Activate promptly to start accessing discounts, streamlining payments, and improving your financial management. Most cards become active within minutes of completing the activation process.
Set up any mobile apps or online portals associated with your card to take full advantage of features like fuel station locators, spending controls, and real-time transaction monitoring.
Why Apply For a Fuel Card?
A fuel card offers truckers essential discounts, better financial management, and added convenience, making it an invaluable tool for trucking businesses.
Reduces Operational Costs
Fuel cards provide discounts at select fuel stations, reducing operational costs significantly. There’s no easier way for a trucking business to access exclusive fuel rates, cut costs on every trip, and reach financial stability. The savings add up quickly, especially for high-mileage operations.
Monitor and Control Fuel Expenses
Fuel cards help monitor spending efficiently, offering detailed reports and real-time tracking. These insights enable truckers to manage budgets effectively, plan for upcoming expenses, and stay in control of their financial health. You can identify spending patterns and optimize your fuel purchasing decisions.
Get Exclusive Perks and Tools
Fuel cards come with added benefits like tools for route optimization, maintenance discounts, and easy fuel expense reporting. These perks enhance your business operations while providing extra value, making every trip more profitable and efficient.
Increase Driver Accountability
Assign cards to individual drivers, set gallon or purchase limits, and monitor activity to reduce unauthorized spending or misuse. This feature is particularly valuable for fleet managers who need to maintain control over fuel expenses while giving drivers the flexibility to refuel as needed.
Flexible Funding Options
The OTR Fuel Card offers multiple ways to keep your trucks fueled and your business moving. You can fund your card through direct deposit, Zelle, or by pairing it with OTR’s factoring services. And for carriers who factor with OTR, credit options are also available, not just prepaid. These flexible choices give you fast access to fuel and more control over how you manage your cashflow.
Zero Fees with the Right Provider
With a card like OTR’s, you ensure that every dollar saved stays in your business. With $0 transaction fees at in-network locations, the OTR Fuel Card ensures every dollar you save contributes directly to your bottom line.
Nationwide Acceptance
Use your card at thousands of fuel stations across the U.S., ensuring convenience whether you’re running local routes or driving coast-to-coast. The OTR Fuel Card provides access to 8,000 locations nationwide, giving you the flexibility to refuel wherever your business takes you.
Start Saving and Apply for the OTR Fuel Card Today
Learning how to apply for a fuel card doesn’t have to be complicated. At OTR Solutions, we’ve simplified the process so you can start saving on fuel expenses immediately. Our fuel card offers industry-leading benefits, including average savings of $0.50 per gallon, discounts up to $2.25 per gallon, and access to over 2,500 in-network locations with $0 transaction fees.
It’s no wonder that the OTR Fuel Card is one of the three must-have trucker tools! Whether you’re an owner-operator looking to reduce costs or a fleet manager seeking better expense control, our fuel card provides the tools and savings you need to stay profitable. Apply today and start maximizing your savings on every mile.
FAQs About Applying for a Fuel Card
Common questions truckers ask when choosing and applying for a fuel card.
1. What credit score is needed for a fuel card?
Requirements vary by provider. Some need good credit (650+), while others, like OTR, offer approval without credit checks.
2. Can owner-operators apply for a fuel card?
Yes, owner-operators can apply. Most providers design cards specifically for individual truckers and small operations.
3. How long does it take to get approved for a fuel card?
Approval ranges from instant to several business days, depending on the provider and credit check requirements.
4. Are there any fees associated with fuel cards?
Fee structures vary. OTR offers $0 transaction fees at in-network locations with zero transaction fees.
5. Is it worth applying for a fuel card if I’m just getting started?
Absolutely. Fuel cards provide immediate savings and help new businesses manage expenses from day one.