The Choice Privileges Mastercard, issued by Wells Fargo, is a co-branded credit card designed specifically for frequent travelers who stay at Choice Hotels properties.
The card allows users to earn Choice Privileges points on every purchase, with accelerated earning rates when spending at Choice Hotels locations.
These points can be redeemed for free hotel nights, gift cards, travel perks, and more, making it an attractive option for those loyal to the Choice Hotels brand.
One of the biggest advantages of the Choice Privileges Mastercard is that it comes with no annual fee, meaning you can earn travel rewards without worrying about extra yearly costs.
Additionally, automatic Gold Elite status is granted to cardholders, providing benefits such as bonus points on hotel stays, priority check-in, and exclusive member deals.
Furthermore, this card offers a solid rewards program with bonus categories that appeal to travelers and everyday spenders alike.
Reasons to Choose the Choice Privileges Mastercard
1. Generous Welcome Bonus
New cardholders have the opportunity to earn a substantial welcome bonus, typically offering thousands of points when they meet a minimum spending requirement within the first 90 days of account opening.
For example, a standard sign-up bonus might provide 60,000 Choice Privileges points after spending $1,000 in the first three months.
Depending on the Choice Hotels location, this can translate into several free nights, making the welcome offer highly valuable for travelers.
Additionally, these points can be used for upgrades, making your stays even more comfortable.
2. High Earning Rates on Purchases
The Choice Privileges Mastercard offers strong rewards in multiple spending categories:
- 5X points per $1 spent at Choice Hotels properties.
- 3X points per $1 spent on gas stations, grocery stores, and home improvement stores.
- 1X point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
This rewards structure ensures that cardholders can earn points quickly not only on hotel stays but also on everyday expenses.
This makes the card a great option for those who want to accumulate points without having to change their spending habits drastically.
3. Automatic Gold Elite Status
One of the best perks of this card is the automatic Gold Elite status, which comes with:
- 10% extra points on Choice Hotels stays.
- Priority check-in at participating locations.
- Exclusive reservation benefits and early access to promotions.
For those who stay at Choice Hotels frequently, having elite status can make a big difference in terms of comfort and rewards accumulation.
Cardholders can enjoy added convenience and personalized services when staying at Choice Hotels properties.
4. No Annual Fee
Unlike many travel rewards credit cards, the Choice Privileges Mastercard does not charge an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for earning hotel rewards.
This is a great feature for budget-conscious travelers who want to maximize their rewards without extra costs.
5. No Foreign Transaction Fees
For international travelers, the lack of foreign transaction fees makes this card an excellent choice when booking Choice Hotels abroad or making purchases overseas.
This can save cardholders a significant amount of money when traveling internationally.
6. Points That Do Not Expire
As long as your account remains open and in good standing, your Choice Privileges points will never expire, allowing you to accumulate rewards over time without worrying about losing them.
This makes it easier to save up points for a bigger trip in the future.
7. Flexibility in Redemption Options
While Choice Privileges points are best used for free hotel stays, they can also be redeemed for:
- Gift cards for major retailers.
- Airline miles with participating frequent flyer programs.
- Experiences, dining, and travel perks.
Having multiple redemption options ensures that cardholders can find the best value for their points based on their personal preferences and travel goals.
Negative Factors of the Choice Privileges Mastercard
1. Limited Redemption Value Outside of Choice Hotels
If you don’t stay at Choice Hotels often, the value of earned points might not be as appealing compared to other travel rewards cards that offer more flexible redemption options.
Many competitors provide transferable points that can be used across multiple airlines and hotel brands.
2. No Introductory APR Offers
Some competing travel credit cards offer 0% APR introductory periods on purchases or balance transfers, but the Choice Privileges Mastercard does not provide this feature.
This may make it less attractive for those looking to finance large purchases over time.
3. Higher Rewards Only for Choice Hotels
While the card offers 3X points on groceries, gas, and home improvement, many cashback credit cards can provide better rates for these everyday purchases.
If you don’t stay at Choice Hotels frequently, you might find better value with a more general travel rewards card.
4. Requires Good to Excellent Credit
Applicants typically need a credit score of 700 or higher to be approved, which may exclude some consumers.
If you have a lower credit score, you may need to consider other credit card options with more lenient approval criteria.
What Are the Requirements to Apply for the Choice Privileges Mastercard?
To be eligible for the Choice Privileges Mastercard, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in some states).
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).
- Have a good to excellent credit score (typically 700+ recommended).
Fees and Costs
The Choice Privileges Mastercard has a simple and transparent fee structure:
- Annual Fee: $0 (no annual fee).
- APR for Purchases: Variable, based on creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or $5 (whichever is greater).
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $40.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Choice Privileges Mastercard
1. Can I use the Choice Privileges Mastercard outside of Choice Hotels?
Yes, the card is accepted anywhere Mastercard is used, and you will earn points on all purchases.
2. How do I redeem Choice Privileges points?
Points can be redeemed for free hotel stays, gift cards, and travel rewards through the Choice Privileges loyalty program.
3. Do my points expire?
No, as long as your account is open and in good standing, your points will not expire.
4. How long does it take to get approved?
Most applicants receive a decision within minutes when applying online.
5. What credit score do I need?
A good to excellent credit score (typically 700+) is recommended for approval.
Conclusion
The Choice Privileges Mastercard is a top-tier hotel rewards credit card for frequent travelers who stay at Choice Hotels.
With a generous rewards structure, no annual fee, and automatic Gold Elite status, it offers a cost-effective way to maximize hotel stays and travel perks.
However, if you are looking for a general travel rewards card with more flexibility, you may want to explore other options.
For those who regularly stay at Choice Hotels, this card provides great value through bonus points, elite benefits, and zero foreign transaction fees—all while keeping costs low.
If you’re a loyal Choice Hotels guest, applying for the Choice Privileges Mastercard could be a smart move for your travel rewards strategy.
