Can Sole Traders Get a Fuel Card in Australia?

The short answer here is yes, a sole trader can get a fuel card in Australia. It’s a common assumption that fuel cards are only for large companies with big fleets, but most providers will accept sole traders with a valid ABN.

Whether you drive a ute, van, or car for work, a fuel card brings all your fuel transactions together in one place rather than relying on a personal card and a folder full of receipts. We’re going to look at this topic in depth, helping shed light on utilising this handy solution for your sole trader business.

For a broader overview, see this guide on what a fuel card is and how it works.

What you need to apply as a sole trader

To apply for a fuel card as a sole trader, you typically need:

• A valid ABN, usually active for at least 6 to 12 months depending on the provider. GST registration if you want to claim GST credits on fuel.
• Proof of identity such as a driver’s licence.
• A basic credit assessment, with some providers asking for additional financial information if your business is newer.

You don’t need to operate a fleet or employ staff; a sole trader with a single vehicle can apply and use a fuel card for business travel and fuel expenses.

For more context, see our fuel card for self-employed guide or our broader fuel card for small business page.

What are the benefits of fuel cards for sole traders?

For sole traders, the main value is less admin and clearer visibility over what you’re spending on fuel.

• No paper receipts: All fuel transactions appear in one monthly ATO-compliant invoice.
• GST itemisation: This simplifies BAS reporting and record keeping.
• Potential Fuel Tax Credit access: Eligible sole traders in certain industries who are GST-registered may be able to claim FTC on qualifying fuel use.
• Wide acceptance network: Usable at over 90% of fuel stations across Australia.
• Cleaner separation of business and personal spending: Keeps accounting organised and easier to review.

You can find the full list in the benefits of fuel cards overview. For sole traders, the real value is often not the per-litre savings but the time you get back from not having to manage a pile of receipts.

Can a sole trader claim GST on Fuel?

Yes. If you’re registered for GST, you can generally claim GST on fuel used for business purposes as an input tax credit.

A fuel card provides the ATO-compliant tax invoice needed to support those claims. Sole traders earning under $75,000 per year aren’t required to register for GST but can do so voluntarily if it makes sense for their business. Only the business-use portion of fuel is claimable.

Because a fuel card consolidates all purchases into one monthly statement, GST reporting is more straight-forward than working through a pile of individual receipts.

Which FleetCard product suits a sole trader?

For most sole traders, FleetCard Classic is the most practical option. It’s designed for small and self-employed businesses that don’t need complex fleet management tools but still want structured fuel tracking, GST-compliant reporting and access to a wide acceptance network. The online application is straight-forward and there’s no requirement to run multiple vehicles.

How to apply for a FleetCard Classic

Applying is easy: Check you have an active ABN and GST registration if applicable. Choose your card, with FleetCard Classic being the most common choice for sole traders. Just complete the online application with your business and personal details and provide any supporting documents if requested. All that’s left is to receive your card by mail once approved and activate it for use.

FAQs

Can a sole trader get a fuel card in Australia?

Yes. Sole traders with an active ABN are eligible to apply.

Do I need an ABN to apply for a fuel card?

Yes. An ABN is required for all business fuel cards.

Do I need GST registration to use a fuel card?

No, but GST registration is required to claim GST credits on fuel.

Can I use a fuel card if I only have one vehicle?

Yes. Fuel cards are commonly used by sole traders with a single vehicle.

Can sole traders claim GST on fuel purchases?

Yes, if registered for GST and the fuel is used for business.

Are sole traders eligible for Fuel Tax Credits?

Potentially, depending on vehicle type, usage, and eligibility rules.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically an ABN, ID, and sometimes basic financial information.

How long does approval take?

Usually a few business days once all required information is submitted.

Round up

Fuel cards for sole traders are easy to access and practical to use, even with just one vehicle. They cut down on paperwork, make GST reporting easier and give you a clear record of business fuel spending through a single monthly invoice.

To explore your options, start with FleetCard Classic or read more about how a fuel card for self-employed setup could work for your business.