The AAA Advantage Credit Card is a co-branded card for AAA members that offers rewards on gas, dining, and travel
The AAA Advantage Credit Card is issued through Barclays and designed specifically for AAA members. It earns cash back on purchases at gas stations, restaurants, and travel merchants, with a higher rate for AAA members who maintain their membership. The card does not charge an annual fee, and new cardholders receive an introductory offer on purchases made in the first few months.
This card works best if you are an active AAA member who spends regularly on gas and dining. If you rarely use AAA services or do not drive, the rewards structure may not align with your spending patterns. The card is not designed to be a general-purpose cash-back card — it rewards specific categories where AAA members typically spend.
Key Takeaways
- The card earns higher cash-back rates at gas stations and restaurants for AAA members, with lower rates for non-members.
- There is no annual fee, which means you can hold the card without paying to keep it open.
- New cardholders receive an introductory cash-back offer on purchases within a set timeframe after opening the account.
- You must be an AAA member to receive the full rewards rate; non-members earn a reduced rate on the same categories.
- The card is issued by Barclays and managed through their online portal and mobile app.
How the Rewards Structure Works
The AAA Advantage card earns cash back in tiered categories. AAA members earn a higher percentage on gas station purchases and restaurant spending, while purchases at other merchants earn a lower flat rate. The exact rates depend on your AAA membership tier — some AAA memberships offer enhanced rewards compared to basic membership.
Cash-back rewards are deposited into your credit card account as a statement credit or can be redeemed through the Barclays online portal. You do not have to redeem rewards manually; many cardholders allow them to accumulate and explore them against their balance at year-end. There is no cap on the total rewards you can earn, and rewards do not expire as long as your account remains open.
If you lose your AAA membership or let it lapse, your rewards rate drops to the non-member level on those categories. This is one reason to confirm your membership status is current before explore — the card's value depends on active AAA status.
Introductory Offers and Current Promotions
New cardholders typically receive a bonus cash-back offer on purchases made within the first three to six months of opening the account. The exact offer changes periodically, so the amount you receive depends on when you open the card. This bonus is separate from the ongoing rewards you earn on everyday purchases.
To receive the introductory bonus, you must make purchases that meet the terms stated in the offer — usually a minimum spending threshold within the promotional window. The bonus is credited to your account automatically once you meet the requirements; you do not need to redeem it separately.
Promotional offers are advertised on the AAA website and through Barclays' card portal. Before you open an account, check the current offer to understand what bonus applies to your process date.
Annual Fees and Other Costs
The AAA Advantage card has no annual fee, which means there is no yearly charge to hold the card. This applies whether you use the card actively or keep it open without spending. You can close the account at any time without penalty.
The card does charge interest on balances you carry from month to month. The annual percentage rate (APR) varies based on your credit score and creditworthiness at the time you open the account. You can find your current APR in your cardholder agreement or by logging into your Barclays account online.
Late payments, returned checks, and cash advances may incur fees. These fees are outlined in your cardholder agreement, which Barclays provides when you open the account and makes available online at any time.
How to Open an AAA Advantage Credit Card Account
To open an account, you must be an AAA member in good standing. If you are not currently a member, you will need to join AAA first through your local AAA club or online at the AAA website. Membership typically requires proof of identity and a valid mailing address.
Once you have active AAA membership, you can open the credit card through the AAA website or by calling the AAA customer service number. You will be asked to provide your Social Security number, income, employment status, and other information that Barclays uses to assess creditworthiness. Barclays will pull your credit report as part of the review process.
The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete online. You will receive a decision within minutes to a few business days. If approved, your card will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up the card through the Barclays website or mobile app once it arrives.
Managing Your Account Online and by Phone
Once your account is open, you can manage it through the Barclays online portal or the Barclays mobile app. You can view your balance, make payments, set up automatic payments, read statements, and track your rewards earnings. The portal also shows your current APR and any promotional offers tied to your account.
To make a payment, log into your account and select "Make a Payment." You can pay from a bank account, and Barclays will process the payment within one to three business days depending on the payment method. You can also set up automatic payments to be deducted from your checking account on a date you choose each month.
If you have questions about your account, rewards, or charges, you can call Barclays customer service at the number on the back of your card. Customer service is available during business hours and can help you dispute charges, update your address, or troubleshoot login issues.
Comparing the AAA Advantage Card to Other Options
The AAA Advantage card is most competitive if you are an AAA member who spends heavily on gas and dining. If you do not have AAA membership, the rewards rate is lower, and you may find a general-purpose cash-back card more valuable. Many other cards offer 1.5% to 2% cash back on all purchases without category restrictions.
If you drive infrequently or rarely eat at restaurants, a card that rewards travel or online shopping may serve you better. Similarly, if you prefer to earn points or miles rather than cash back, other cards may align better with your redemption preferences.
The no-annual-fee structure is an advantage over premium cards that charge $95 or more per year. However, if you do not use the card regularly, the annual fee savings are less meaningful than the rewards you would earn through active use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be an AAA member to open this card?
Yes, you must have active AAA membership to open the card. If you are not a member, you can join through your local AAA club or online, which typically takes a few days to process. Once your membership is confirmed, you can open the credit card.
What happens to my rewards rate if I cancel my AAA membership?
Your rewards rate will drop to the non-member level on gas and dining purchases. You will continue to earn cash back, but at a lower percentage. If you plan to keep the card, maintaining your AAA membership is important to maximize the value.
Can I use this card outside the United States?
Yes, the card can be used internationally. However, foreign transactions typically incur a fee, usually around 3% of the purchase amount. Check your cardholder agreement for the exact foreign transaction fee that applies to your account.
How long does it take to receive my card after I open the account?
Your card will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days after your account is approved. You can set up it through the Barclays website or app as soon as it arrives. If you need the card urgently, contact Barclays customer service to ask about expedited shipping options.
What should I do if I forget my online login password?
Go to the Barclays login page and select "Forgot Password." You will be asked to verify your identity using your Social Security number and other information. Barclays will send a password reset link to your email address on file. If you do not receive the email, check your spam folder or call customer service for help.