What the BP Credit Card Is
The BP credit card is a co-branded card issued by a bank in partnership with BP, the gas and convenience store chain. It works like any other credit card — you charge purchases, receive a bill, and pay it back — but it's designed to reward you for spending at BP stations and, in some cases, at other merchants.
BP offers more than one card product, and the specific rewards, fees, and terms depend on which version you're looking at. Some versions are general-purpose cards that happen to offer BP rewards; others are restricted to BP purchases only. Before you pursue one, you need to know which card BP is currently offering and what it actually costs you to use.
Key Takeaways
- BP credit cards typically offer rewards or discounts on fuel purchases at BP stations, but the exact rate and structure varies by card version and changes over time.
- Most BP cards charge an annual fee, though some waive it for the first year or offer no annual fee at all — check the current terms before you open an account.
- The card's value depends on how much you spend at BP stations; if you rarely fill up there, the rewards may not offset the annual fee.
- Your credit score and payment history determine whether you're approved and what interest rate you'll receive, just as with any credit card.
How BP Rewards Work on the Card
BP cards typically offer a cents-per-gallon discount or a cash-back rate on fuel purchases at BP stations. The exact structure — whether you earn 5 cents off per gallon, a percentage back, or points that convert to discounts — depends on which card version is active and what promotional period you're in. BP changes these offers periodically, so the terms available to you today may not be the same next year.
Some BP cards also earn rewards on non-fuel purchases, such as groceries or restaurants, though usually at a lower rate than fuel rewards. Others restrict rewards to BP stations only. Read the card's terms document before opening an account to see what categories earn what rate, and whether those categories match where you actually spend money.
Rewards typically post to your account as a credit or discount that you can use on future purchases or redeem for cash back. The mechanics vary — some cards explore the discount automatically at the pump, others require you to redeem through an online portal or app. Check the issuer's website or call their customer service line to understand how redemption works for the specific card you're considering.
Annual Fees and Other Costs
Most BP credit cards charge an annual fee, though the amount and whether it applies in year one varies. Some cards waive the fee for the first 12 months, then charge it on your anniversary date. Others charge the fee when ready. A few versions have no annual fee at all, though these are less common and may offer lower rewards rates to offset the issuer's cost.
Beyond the annual fee, you'll pay interest on any balance you carry from month to month. The interest rate — called the APR, or annual percentage rate — is determined by your credit score and credit history at the time you open the account. If you carry a balance, that interest can quickly exceed any rewards you earn, so the card's value depends heavily on whether you pay off your bill in full each month.
Some cards also charge fees for late payments, balance transfers, or cash advances. These are standard credit card fees, not specific to BP, but they're worth reviewing in the card's terms before you open an account.
Who Issues the BP Credit Card and How to Find Current Terms
BP credit cards are issued by a major bank under a co-branding agreement with BP. The specific bank changes depending on which card product you're looking at, and BP has changed issuers in the past. This matters because the bank, not BP, sets the terms, handles your account, and determines your credit limit and interest rate.
To find the current BP card offer and its terms, start at BP's official website and look for a link to credit card products. You can also call BP's customer service line or visit a BP station and ask an attendant for information. The issuing bank's website will have the full terms and conditions, including the APR range, annual fee, rewards structure, and any promotional offers currently running.
Do not rely on outdated information from comparison websites or articles written more than a few months ago. Credit card terms, rewards rates, and promotional offers change frequently. Always check the current terms on the issuer's official website or call them directly before you open an account.
How to Open a BP Credit Card Account
To open a BP credit card, you'll start an process through the issuing bank's website, BP's website, or in person at a BP station. The process asks for your name, address, Social Security number, income, and employment information. The bank uses this information to check your credit report and decide whether to approve you and at what interest rate.
You'll need to provide a valid government-issued ID and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Have these documents ready before you start the process, so you don't have to stop and search for them midway through.
The approval decision usually comes within minutes if you explore online, though some applications are flagged for manual review and take a few business days. Once approved, the card typically arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or logging into your online account and following the set up steps.
When a BP Credit Card Makes Financial Sense
A BP credit card is worth considering if you fill up at BP stations regularly and spend enough on fuel to earn rewards that exceed the annual fee. For example, if the card charges a $95 annual fee and offers 5 cents off per gallon, you'd need to buy at least 1,900 gallons per year (about 37 gallons per week) just to break even. If you don't fill up that often, the card costs you money rather than saving it.
The card also makes sense if you use it for other everyday purchases and earn rewards on those too. But only if you pay off the balance in full each month — carrying a balance at the card's interest rate will erase any rewards benefit within a few months.
If you rarely visit BP stations or prefer to use cash or a different rewards card, skip this one. A general-purpose cash-back card with no annual fee will serve you better.
Comparing the BP Card to Other Options
Before you open a BP card, compare it to other fuel rewards options. Some gas stations offer their own rewards programs (often free to join) that give you discounts without an annual fee. Some general-purpose credit cards offer cash back on all purchases, including gas, without restricting you to one brand. Some grocery store loyalty programs offer fuel discounts as a bonus for shopping there.
The BP card's advantage is that it's designed specifically for BP spending, so the rewards rate on fuel is usually higher than a general-purpose card. Its disadvantage is the annual fee and the fact that you're locked into one brand. If you split your gas purchases between BP and other stations, or if you don't fill up often enough to justify the fee, a different card or program will likely save you more money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need to open a BP credit card?
The issuing bank doesn't publish a minimum credit score, but most credit cards require a score of at least 600 to 650. If your score is lower, you may be denied or offered a card with a higher interest rate. Check your credit report before you explore so you know what to expect.
Can I use the BP card at other gas stations?
Yes, you can use the card anywhere that accepts credit cards, including other gas stations. However, you'll only earn the higher fuel rewards rate at BP stations. Purchases at other gas stations earn the lower general rewards rate, if any.
What happens if I don't pay my BP credit card bill on time?
Late payments are reported to the credit bureaus and damage your credit score. You'll also be charged a late fee (typically $25 to $40 for the first late payment) and your interest rate may increase. Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to avoid this.
Can I cancel the BP credit card if I'm not happy with it?
Yes, you can cancel at any time by calling the issuing bank's customer service line. However, if you cancel during the first year and the card waived your annual fee, some issuers may charge you the fee retroactively. Check the terms before you cancel, and ask the bank whether a cancellation fee applies.
Do I earn rewards on BP convenience store purchases, or just fuel?
This depends on the specific card. Some BP cards earn rewards on all BP purchases, including snacks and drinks inside the station. Others earn rewards on fuel only. Check the card's rewards structure in the terms document to see what categories earn what rate.