The FNB Petrol Card is a specialized credit facility designed for South African motorists earning an annual income of R84,000 or higher (R7,000/month). Combining convenience, security, and exclusive vehicle-related benefits, this card is ideal for fuel, tolls, and vehicle maintenance. This 2025 review dives into the card’s features, fees, benefits, and application process.
Overview of the FNB Petrol Card
The FNB Petrol Card is a dual-purpose card that integrates a credit facility and a transactional account, tailored exclusively for motor vehicle expenses. Available as a Standalone Petrol Card or a Linked Petrol Card, it supports fuel purchases, toll payments, and vehicle maintenance across South Africa. With a monthly fee of R61, the card includes free AA Emergency Roadside Assistance, contactless payments, and robust digital banking features.
Key Features
- Income Requirement: R84,000/year (R7,000/month)
- Monthly Fee: R61
- Usage: Fuel, tolls, vehicle maintenance
- Free Benefits: AA Roadside Assistance, digital banking, contactless payments
- Security: Chip-and-PIN, inContact SMS notifications
How the FNB Petrol Card Works
The FNB Petrol Card operates as a credit card restricted to vehicle-related transactions, ensuring focused spending. The Standalone Petrol Card is a transactional card for fuel, tolls, and maintenance, while the Linked Petrol Card combines a credit facility with transactional capabilities. Both are accessible via a single card, offering flexibility based on your financial needs.
Free AA Roadside Assistance
A standout feature, the AA Emergency Roadside Assistance (worth ~R100/month) is included at no extra cost and provides:
- Roadside Repairs: Free minor repairs at breakdown sites
- Flat Tyre Assistance: Tyre changes on-site
- Towing: Up to 40km round trip, available 24/7
- Refuelling: Up to 10 litres of fuel
- Key Lockout Service: Up to R300 (incl. VAT)
- Battery Restart: Assistance for flat batteries
- Stand By You Service: Armed security guard during breakdowns
- Courtesy Services: Car hire or overnight accommodation for you and up to four passengers
Benefits of the FNB Petrol Card
1. Comprehensive Digital Banking
Enjoy free subscriptions to:
- inContact: SMS notifications for transactions over R100
- FNB App: Manage your account, payments, and transactions
- Online Banking: Secure access to account details
- Telephone Banking: 24/7 support for queries
- Cellphone Banking: Quick banking via SMS
These services keep you connected and in control of your finances.
2. Contactless Payment Technology
The card features contactless payment for fast, secure transactions at compatible terminals, ideal for low-value purchases like fuel or tolls. The chip-and-PIN technology adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized use.
3. Free Lost Card Protection
If your card is lost or stolen, free lost card protection ensures you’re not liable for unauthorized transactions. Free PIN replacement is also included for added convenience.
4. Flexible Credit Facility
The card offers personalized interest rates and a credit limit tailored to your financial profile, providing flexibility for vehicle-related expenses when cash flow is tight.
5. Nationwide and International Use
Use the card at fuel stations, toll booths, and vehicle repair shops across South Africa. It’s also accepted internationally for vehicle-related transactions, making it a versatile travel companion.
FNB Petrol Card Fees (2025)
| Fee Type | Amount (ZAR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | R61 | Covers credit facility, service fee, and credit card account maintenance |
| Credit Facility Fees | Up to R175 | Maximum monthly credit facility fees |
| Credit Card Account Fees | ||
| – Monthly Account Fee | R44 | Monthly fee for managing the credit card account |
| – Additional Card Fee | R20 | Fee for requesting an additional card |
| Transaction Fees | ||
| – Fuel Transaction Fee | R6.25 | Fee per fuel purchase |
| Other Fees | ||
| – Declined Transaction Fee | Variable | Fee for declined transactions |
| – Card Replacement Fee | R150 | Fee for replacing a lost or damaged card |
| – International Delivery | R760 | Fee for delivering the card internationally |
| – Urgent Delivery | R265 | Fee for urgent card delivery |
| – Courier/Branch Delivery | Free | Standard delivery options |
| – Scheduled Delivery | R160 | Fee for scheduled delivery (free if KYC documents are collected) |
Where to Use the FNB Petrol Card
The card is accepted at:
- Fuel Stations: All major fuel retailers in South Africa
- Toll Booths: Nationwide toll payments
- Vehicle Maintenance Shops: Repairs, servicing, and parts
Note: The card is restricted to vehicle-related transactions and cannot be used for non-vehicle purchases, ensuring disciplined spending.
Competitive Advantages
- Low Income Threshold: Requires only R7,000/month (R84,000/year) to qualify
- Free Benefits: AA Roadside Assistance, digital banking, and lost card protection
- Modern Technology: Contactless payments, chip-and-PIN security
- International Use: Accepted globally for vehicle expenses
- No Closure Penalties: Close the account anytime without fees
- Convenient Application: Easy for FNB clients via digital platforms or branches
Competitive Disadvantages
- Redundant for Credit Card Holders: Functions as a credit card, unnecessary if you already have one
- Transaction Fees: R6.25 per fuel purchase can add up with frequent use
- Restricted Use: Limited to vehicle-related transactions only
How to Apply for the FNB Petrol Card
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18 years or older
- Citizenship: South African ID or valid passport/visa for non-citizens
- Income: Minimum R84,000/year (R7,000/month)
- Bank Account: Valid South African bank account
Required Documents
- South African ID or passport/visa
- Recent payslip
- 3 months’ bank statements (if salary not paid into FNB account)
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months)
Application Process
Apply via:
- FNB App or Online Banking: Quick and digital
- FNB Branch: In-person assistance
Approval is subject to a credit assessment by FNB, ensuring the card suits your financial profile.
Why Choose the FNB Petrol Card in 2025?
The FNB Petrol Card is a valuable tool for South African motorists, offering:
- Exclusive Vehicle Focus: Streamlines fuel, toll, and maintenance payments
- Free AA Roadside Assistance: Saves ~R100/month on emergency services
- Secure and Convenient: Contactless payments, chip-and-PIN, and digital banking
- Trusted Provider: FNB, part of FirstRand Bank, ensures reliability since 1838
While transaction fees and limited use may deter some, the card’s benefits outweigh these drawbacks for frequent drivers needing a dedicated vehicle expense solution.
Conclusion
The FNB Petrol Card 2025 is a cost-effective, secure, and feature-rich option for motorists earning R84,000 or more annually. With a modest R61 monthly fee, it delivers exceptional value through free AA Roadside Assistance, digital banking, and contactless payments. Ideal for fuel, tolls, and vehicle maintenance, it simplifies your driving expenses while offering peace of mind on the road. Before applying, assess whether its vehicle-only focus aligns with your needs, especially if you already hold a credit card. Apply today via the FNB App, online banking, or at an FNB branch.
