Quick take:
- Fuel programs in Florida range from commercial fleet discount cards to government-backed energy assistance, each with distinct eligibility rules.
- The right program depends on whether you are a business operating diesel vehicles or an individual household managing energy costs.
- Enrollment processes and savings potential vary significantly between program types.
Florida drivers and fleet operators have more than one type of fuel program available to them, and choosing the right one starts with understanding how each option works and who qualifies. Whether the need is reducing per-gallon diesel costs for a commercial fleet or managing household energy expenses, the programs differ in structure, eligibility, and the savings they deliver.
Commercial Fuel Discount Programs for Fleets and Drivers
A commercial fuel program in Florida like the one offered by Open Roads is a diesel fuel discount program open to anyone who purchases diesel, whether it be a diesel pickup truck, RV, or a semi-truck. This broad eligibility makes it accessible to individual owner-operators and larger fleets alike.
The Commercial Fleet Savings Program is designed to meet diesel fuel needs, and by using the card, a fleet can save 25 to 40 cents off the retail price for diesel. The card runs on the EFS network and is accepted at 16,000 fuel stations nationwide, with 3,800 in-network locations that offer the strongest discounts and lower transaction fees.
The fuel card can only be used for diesel in the truck lanes with high flow nozzles, does not work at Pilot, Flying J, or One9, but covers over 3,800 locations nationwide including Love’s, TA, and Petro.
Account Types and Payment Options
Businesses can apply for a line of credit account, a prepay account, or a security deposit account directly with EFS/WEX. Payments can be timed efficiently with weekly or twice-a-week billing periods.
Once approved, account holders have a direct account with EFS/WEX and use their app, WEX Card Control. Each card has a limit of 200 gallons per day, which cannot be exceeded within 24 hours.
How the Card Works at the Pump
Open Roads diesel discounts are easy to use, with no requirement to go inside to pay in order to redeem, and cardholders get access to commercial truck lanes where most locations accept the discount card. Once an application is processed, an EFS card is sent in the mail within approximately 15 to 20 days, arriving in a branded envelope, and once in hand the cardholder is ready to start saving.
Government-Backed Energy Assistance in Florida
For households facing difficulty covering energy costs, Florida participates in the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP offers financial assistance to help pay heating or cooling bills when income is tight. According to the LIHEAP Clearinghouse, Florida received over $121 million in LIHEAP funding for fiscal year 2026.
Eligibility requires a household total income of 60% or less of the Florida State Median Income, or 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, or participation in programs such as SNAP or TANF. Florida’s LIHEAP benefit ranges from a $400 minimum to a $1,350 maximum for heating and cooling, with a year-round crisis benefit up to $2,000.
Comparing Fuel Program Types in Florida
The table below outlines the key differences between the two primary program categories available in Florida.
| Feature | Commercial Fuel Discount Card | LIHEAP Energy Assistance |
| Who qualifies | Diesel vehicle owners, fleets | Low-income households |
| Savings type | Per-gallon discount at pump | Utility bill payment |
| Cost to join | Application/setup fee applies | Free to apply |
| Fuel type covered | Diesel only | Heating and cooling energy |
| Program type | Private discount program | Federal government program |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join a commercial fuel discount program in Florida? The program is open to anyone who purchases diesel fuel, whether it be a diesel pickup truck, RV, or a semi-truck. Individual drivers and business fleets are both eligible to apply.
Does the Open Roads commercial card require a credit check? Open Roads is not a traditional credit card program, so joining does not require a credit check. However, commercial fleet accounts may involve a line of credit review through EFS/WEX depending on the account type selected.
What documents are needed to apply for LIHEAP in Florida? Documents needed include valid photo identification for all household members 18 and older, an electric bill, Social Security cards for all household members, birth certificates for children in the household, and proof of income for the last 30 days.
Can a business use both a commercial fuel card and LIHEAP? These are separate programs with different purposes. LIHEAP applies to residential energy bills and is not available for commercial fuel purchases. A business operating diesel vehicles would use a commercial fuel discount card, not LIHEAP.
Find the Right Fuel Program for Your Situation
Understanding the distinction between commercial fuel discount programs and government energy assistance is the first step toward reducing fuel costs in Florida. For fleet operators and diesel vehicle owners looking to cut per-gallon expenses, a commercial fuel card program provides a straightforward path to consistent savings at truck stops across the state and nationwide. For income-qualified households managing utility bills, LIHEAP offers a separate and meaningful safety net. Evaluate your vehicle type, business structure, and income situation before applying to ensure you select the program that delivers the most value.
To explore commercial fleet fuel savings options, visit Open Roads and review available account types before submitting an application.
