11 Best Credit Cards and Rewards Programs for Lyft Rides

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated November 10, 2025

Finding the right credit card can make every Lyft ride more rewarding, whether the goal is saving money or earning points toward future travel. The best cards offer bonus rewards, cash back, or flexible points that suit different budgets and goals, so riders get more value from each trip.

  • Chase Freedom Flex®

    The Chase Freedom Flex® is a cash back credit card that adapts well to different spending habits. It offers rotating bonus categories, which can include rideshare services like Lyft.

    Cardholders can also earn rewards in other fixed categories, making it versatile for everyday use. Its structure allows people to maximize value without needing to track complex reward systems.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (activation required)
    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
    • 3% cash back on dining, including takeout and delivery
    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases
    • 2% total cash back on Lyft rides through September 2027
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 within the first three months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, typically 18.99%–28.49%
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Access to rotating 5% categories and Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Strong cash back rates in multiple categories
    • Rotating 5% bonus categories add flexibility
    • Cell phone protection included
    • Works with Chase Ultimate Rewards® for added value

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, travel, gift cards, or purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants usually need good to excellent credit, with a score starting around 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The 5% categories require activation each quarter, and the foreign transaction fee makes it less ideal for international use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers great rewards with no annual fee, making it easy for beginners to earn cash back.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a flexible rewards card that works well for everyday spending, including frequent Lyft rides. Cardholders can earn bonus cash back when using Lyft, making it an excellent option for riders looking to save on transportation.

    This card works well with other Chase cards, making it great for those looking to expand their rewards strategy. It provides consistent value for both cash back and travel redemptions.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
    • 2% total cash back on Lyft rides through September 2027
    • 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $500 within the first three months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, typically around 18.99%–28.49%
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, extended warranty, travel and rental car coverage
    • Network: Visa
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • High rewards on travel, dining, and drugstores
    • Flat 1.5x rewards rate on other purchases
    • Flexible redemption through Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, or travel bookings through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Foreign transaction fees make it less useful for international travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers straightforward rewards without complex rules, making it easy for new cardholders to use effectively.

  • Chase Freedom Rise®

    The Chase Freedom Rise® is designed for people who are new to credit or looking to build their credit history, and it even rewards Lyft rides. Cardholders can earn bonus cash back when using Lyft, making it a smart starter card for frequent riders.

    This card focuses on accessibility while still giving users a chance to earn rewards on everyday purchases. It can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced Chase cards in the future.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2% total cash back on Lyft rides through September 2027
    • 1.5% cash back on all purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a $25 statement credit after signing up for automatic payments in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 25.99% variable
    • Other benefits: Free credit score monitoring, purchase protection
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards portal

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Earn bonus rewards on Lyft rides
    • Simple flat-rate cash back structure
    • Helpful for building credit history
    • Access to Chase’s online tools and resources

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, or travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants with no credit history may qualify, making it suitable for beginners.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer high-tier travel perks or a large welcome bonus.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a low barrier to entry with consistent rewards and no annual fee, making it a practical choice for first-time cardholders.

  • Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

    The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® lets cardholders earn rewards on rent payments, which is rare among credit cards, and also provides bonus points on Lyft rides. This makes it appealing to frequent riders who want to turn everyday transportation into valuable rewards.

    This card works well for daily spending categories like dining and travel, allowing users to build points on regular expenses without an annual cost.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points on dining purchases
    • 3x points on Lyft rides, including bikes and scooters
    • 2x points on travel booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rentals
    • 1x points on rent payments (up to 100,000 points per year)
    • 1x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently offer a standard welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 20.49%, 23.49%, or 28.49% variable
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, access to Rent Day promotions
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: World Elite Mastercard
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn points on rent without fees
    • No annual fee to keep the card
    • $5 Lyft credit after three qualifying Lyft rides in a month
    • Points transfer to major airline and hotel partners
    • Strong dining and travel bonus categories
    • Special Rent Day promotions each month

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, rent payments, fitness classes, or gift cards, with options to transfer to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score between 670 and 850.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer a welcome bonus and rent rewards are capped at 100,000 points per calendar year.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It suits beginners because it has no annual fee, simple earning categories, and flexible redemption options.

  • U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

    The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card gives cardholders flexible cash back categories. It allows users to choose bonus categories that match their spending habits.

    This flexibility makes the card useful for riders who want to earn rewards on Lyft rides. It also works well for those who want to maximize earnings in everyday categories.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose
    • 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Travel Center
    • 2% cash back on one everyday category, such as gas stations, EV charging stations, or grocery stores (excluding discount stores and wholesale clubs)
    • 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 18.49%–28.74% variable
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, contactless payments
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Access to Visa Signature benefits

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Flexible 5% cash back categories
    • Useful for both rideshare and everyday spending
    • Includes cell phone protection coverage
    • Backed by Visa Signature benefits

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or gift cards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, often starting around a 670 FICO score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The 5% cash back is capped each quarter, and foreign transaction fees make it less ideal for international use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple cash back rewards with no annual fee, making it easy for new cardholders to manage.

  • Citi Double Cash® Card

    The Citi Double Cash® Card is a simple cash back card that works well for everyday spending, including Lyft rides. Cardholders can earn cash back on every Lyft trip, adding extra value for frequent riders.

    It offers consistent rewards without requiring users to track bonus categories. Many people use it for daily purchases like groceries, dining, and rideshare services, and its straightforward structure makes earning and redeeming cash back easy to manage.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1% cash back when making a purchase
    • 1% cash back when paying off that purchase
    • Total of 2% cash back on all purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 within the first six months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% introductory APR for 18 months on balance transfers, then 18.24% to 28.24% variable applies
    • Other benefits: Access to Citi Entertainment for event tickets
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Other relevant details: No rotating categories to track

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Flat 2% cash back on all purchases
    • Simple earning structure with no categories
    • Works with common expenses like rideshare, dining, and groceries

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or check.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, often a score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer bonus categories or travel perks, and it charges foreign transaction fees.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its flat-rate cash back and no annual fee make it easy for new cardholders to use without confusion.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel rewards card built for frequent travelers and rideshare users. It offers elevated earning rates and access to valuable perks that make it stand out in the travel rewards space.

    This card focuses on flexible points that can be redeemed in different ways, making it useful for people who value options. It also includes travel and lifestyle benefits that go beyond simple rewards earning.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on Lyft rides through September 2027
    • 3x points on dining and travel purchases
    • 1x point on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card offers 125,000 bonus points for new cardholders after spending $6,000 in the first three months of joining.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $795
    • APR: Variable, typically around 20.24%–28.74%
    • Other benefits: $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass lounge access, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry/NEXUS credit
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on Lyft rides
    • High-value travel credits
    • Airport lounge access
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Flexible redemption options

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, transferred to airline and hotel partners, or used for cash back and gift cards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants need excellent credit, with a FICO score of 740–850, to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee may not be worth it for people who do not travel often.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides simple earning categories and flexible redemption options, making it easier for new rewards users to maximize value.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a travel rewards credit card that helps riders earn points on everyday spending. It is well known for offering strong value on travel and dining purchases.

    Cardholders can use it to collect Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which are flexible and easy to redeem. The card is often seen as a good fit for people who want solid rewards without paying for a premium card.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on Lyft rides through September 2027
    • 3x points on dining, online grocery, and select streaming services
    • 2x points on travel purchases
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 19.99%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Primary rental car insurance, trip cancellation coverage, purchase protection
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong Lyft multiplier until 2027
    • Flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards® points
    • Solid travel protection
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Good to excellent credit is recommended (typically FICO 670–850).

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has an annual fee and does not offer premium travel perks found on higher-tier cards.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides simple earning categories and flexible redemption options, making it easy for new rewards users to maximize value.

  • American Express® Green Card

    The American Express® Green Card is a travel-focused rewards card that appeals to people who use rideshare services often. It offers flexible points that can be redeemed for travel, making it useful for frequent Lyft riders. This card also provides strong earning potential for categories beyond rideshares.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points on travel, including rideshares like Lyft
    • 3x points on dining worldwide
    • 1x point on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first six months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $150
    • APR: 20.24%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to Amex Offers, purchase protection, car rental coverage
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Travel rewards
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on travel and dining
    • Points can transfer to airline and hotel partners
    • Useful travel protection
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to Amex Offers for extra savings

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel through Amex Travel, transferred to partners, or used for statement credits and gift cards.

    Credit Requirements:

    For higher chances of approval, applicants generally need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has an annual fee and does not offer elevated rewards on everyday categories like groceries or gas.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides simple earning categories and flexible redemption options, making it easy for new rewards users to understand.

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card From American Express

    The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a cash back card designed for everyday spending. It works well for people who want rewards on routine purchases while still earning on travel and rideshare services.

    Cardholders can use it for groceries, streaming, gas, and transit, making it flexible for different lifestyles. It also adds solid value for those who use Lyft or other rideshare platforms often.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after)
    • 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming services
    • 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit, including rideshares like Lyft
    • 1% cash back on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card offers a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95 after
    • APR: 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening, followed by a variable APR of 20.24% to 29.24%
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, return protection, Amex Offers
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 2.7%
    • Extra perks: Access to Amex Experiences and pre-sale tickets

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on groceries and streaming
    • Extra cash back on rideshares and transit
    • Intro annual fee waived for the first year
    • Useful shopping and purchase protections
    • Wide coverage for everyday categories

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, gift cards, or used for certain purchases through American Express.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, often a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The supermarket bonus has a $6,000 annual cap, and foreign transaction fees make it less useful for travel abroad.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple cash back rewards and easy redemption, making it beginner-friendly for those new to credit card rewards.

  • Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® Card

    The Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® Card focuses on everyday spending and simple rewards earning. It offers a flexible structure that appeals to people who want value without complicated rules.

    This card fits well for those who use rideshare services often, including Lyft. It also provides extra value on common categories, making it useful beyond just travel.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases
    • 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services, and local transit (including rideshare) purchases
    • 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare after spending at least $4,000 within the first four months of card opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 20.24%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, extended warranty, Visa Signature perks
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Extra rewards on Lyft and other rideshare services
    • Strong dining and streaming rewards
    • Travel and purchase protections
    • Accepted worldwide through Visa network

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for cash back, travel bookings, gift cards, or statement credits.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of at least 670, to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not include premium travel perks or lounge access.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple rewards and easy redemption options, making it beginner-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider when choosing a credit card for ride-sharing services like Lyft?

It helps to look at how many points or cash back a card earns on Lyft rides compared to other spending. Extra benefits like travel protection or lounge access may add value if the card is also used for travel. A person should also consider the annual fee and spending habits before applying.

Can I combine credit card rewards with Lyft’s own loyalty program?

Yes, Lyft allows users to earn rewards through its own loyalty program while also collecting credit card points. Riders can earn double rewards on a trip by combining Lyft’s loyalty perks with their credit card rewards.

How does frequent Lyft use affect your credit score over time, especially when using multiple rewards cards?

Frequent Lyft use itself does not impact your credit score, but how you manage the payments does. Carrying high balances or missing payments can lower your score. Using multiple cards responsibly, keeping utilization low, and paying on time can actually help build credit.

Are there hidden fees or surge-pricing impacts that credit card rewards can’t offset for regular Lyft riders?

Credit card rewards will not eliminate surge pricing or service fees charged by Lyft. These extra costs can reduce the value of any rewards earned. Riders should factor in these fluctuations when calculating actual savings.

What are the tax implications of earning significant credit card rewards from business-related Lyft rides?

If Lyft rides are for business and you deduct them as expenses, credit card rewards might affect your tax reporting. Rewards from spending are usually not taxable, but redeeming points for cash or statement credits related to business expenses may affect deductions. It’s best to consult a tax professional for accurate guidance.