Costco Just Made a Huge Change to Its Gas Stations – Millions of Customers Will Be Affected Starting Now
Short Information: Costco has implemented a major policy change at its gas stations across the United States. Starting now, only eligible Costco members will be able to access fuel services at selected locations. This change is expected to impact millions of regular customers.
Costco Gas Station Policy Change – Overview
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Costco Wholesale Corporation |
| Change Implemented | Membership-only Access Enforced |
| Affected Service | Costco Gas Stations |
| Effective From | August 2025 |
| Locations Impacted | Selected States and Cities (Expansion Ongoing) |
| Reason for Change | Member-only enforcement and cost control |
What Has Changed
Costco has announced that going forward, only active Costco members will be able to purchase fuel at its gas stations. In the past, some locations allowed non-members to buy gas. That exception is now being removed gradually across the country.
Where This Policy is Now Active
As of now, this change has been enforced in the following states and is expected to expand:
- New Jersey
- California
- Arizona
- Washington
- Florida (selected cities)
Costco will continue rolling out this policy nationwide in phases during August and September 2025.
How This Affects Customers
- Non-members will no longer be allowed to purchase fuel at affected Costco gas stations
- Costco members must present a valid membership card at the pump or in the Costco app
- Some locations have already installed membership verification systems at pumps
- Gasoline prices at Costco will remain lower compared to other providers, but only members will benefit
Why Costco Made This Change
According to official statements from Costco:
- The move is aimed at limiting fuel services to paying members only
- Costco wants to ensure exclusive benefits for its loyal membership base
- Helps reduce long lines and congestion at busy fuel stations
- Allows Costco to maintain lower fuel prices by limiting access
How to Access Costco Fuel Moving Forward
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Membership Needed | Yes (Gold Star or Executive Membership) |
| Card Required at Pump | Yes |
| Mobile App Access | Accepted at select stations |
| Guest Access | Not Allowed |
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Costco Membership Page | https://www.costco.com/join-costco.html |
| Store Locator | https://www.costco.com/warehouse-locations |
| Official Announcement | https://www.costco.com |
Notes
- This policy applies to Costco-owned gas stations only
- Third-party fuel services outside the U.S. may have separate terms
- Members should carry their Costco card or app for fuel purchases
- This is a permanent change, not a temporary policy