Esso card FUEL RATIONS & THE ESSO CARD The fuel-ration card allows AAFES and Esso to control rationed tax- and duty-free purchases of vehicle fuel, and is a must for military members stationed in Germany. Fuel Cards are required for all privately owned vehicles and for all U.S. Government non-tactical vehicles. The German government asked the U.S Forces in Germany to change from fuel coupons to an automated fuel ration card in 2008. The new fuel ration card provides conveniences and efficiencies that were not possible with fuel coupons. At the same time, anyone who uses their fuel ration card incorrectly will be risking having to pay more than they expected for their fuel. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and eligible U.S civilian is responsible for using their fuel ration card properly after they've received it and activated it. To ensure complete understanding of proper fuel card use, all U.S. personnel who are stationed in Germany or otherwise eligible for the fuel ration card should fully review all published information on fuel ration card implementation and use. This includes all U.S. Forces and U.S. State Department personnel who are either permanently stationed or on temporary duty in Germany and their family members with drivers licenses who are permanently stationed in Germany. For more information on the card and how to use it, check out the AAFES Fuel Ration Frequently Asked Questions page.