Sonic Drive-In is one of the most popular fast-food chains in the U.S., offering a unique carhop service and delicious menu items. To make ordering more convenient, Sonic supports multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, digital payments, gift cards, and even in-app transactions.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore all the payment methods available at Sonic, including new updates, contactless payment options, and how to save money using coupons and promotions.
Sonic Payment Methods (Updated for 2025)
Sonic Drive-In accepts multiple payment methods for a quick and easy checkout.
Accepted Payment Methods:
- Credit & Debit Cards – Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
- Cash – Accepted at all locations
- Apple Pay – Works on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch
- Google Pay – Available for Android users
- Samsung Pay – Works on Samsung devices
- Sonic App Payments – Pay ahead using the Sonic app
- Sonic Gift Cards – Physical and digital gift cards, usable in-store and in-app
- Contactless Payments – Tap-to-pay with NFC-enabled cards
- Coupons & Promo Codes – Apply discounts at checkout
- PayPal – Only if linked to Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Venmo Debit Card – Works like a regular debit card
Some payment options may vary by location. Check with your local Sonic for availability.
Traditional Payment Methods
Sonic accepts all major traditional payment methods, including:
Credit & Debit Cards
- Accepted Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
- Available for drive-in stalls, drive-thru, and in-app purchases.
- Some locations support contactless payments via NFC-enabled cards.
Cash Payments
- Sonic still accepts cash for all orders.
- Carhops and drive-thru attendants will accept cash directly.
- Change will be provided as needed.
2. Mobile & Digital Payment Methods
With the rise of cashless transactions, Sonic has integrated multiple digital payment solutions for faster and more convenient purchases.
Apple Pay
- Supported in-store and in-app.
- Use your iPhone, Apple Watch, or iPad for payments.
- Secure transactions with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
- Works with contactless readers at Sonic drive-ins.
Google Pay
- Available for Android users.
- Tap your device near the contactless reader to pay.
- Works for drive-in, drive-thru, and in-app orders.
Samsung Pay
- Samsung Pay can be used at supported locations.
- Offers both NFC and MST payment support for older terminals.
PayPal (Limited Availability)
- Sonic does not widely accept PayPal in-store.
- However, you can use PayPal to load funds into some mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) that Sonic supports.
3. Sonic Mobile App Payments
The Sonic App is the most convenient way to order ahead and pay without hassle. Here’s how it works:
How to Pay via the Sonic App
- Download & Sign Up: Get the Sonic App from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Add a Payment Method: Link a credit/debit card, Sonic gift card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
- Place Your Order: Choose a Sonic location, browse the menu, and customize your meal.
- Select a Pickup Option: Choose drive-thru, drive-in, or curbside pickup.
- Check-In on Arrival: At the stall, enter your stall number in the app. Your food will be delivered.
Benefits of Using the Sonic App
- Exclusive Discounts & Deals
- Order Ahead & Skip the Line
- Earn Rewards & Free Food
- Multiple Payment Options Supported
4. Sonic Gift Cards & eGift Cards
Sonic offers physical and digital gift cards, perfect for gifting or earning rewards.
How to Use a Sonic Gift Card
- Physical Cards: Swipe at the checkout to pay.
- eGift Cards: Redeem in the Sonic app or show the digital code at the drive-in.
Where to Buy Sonic Gift Cards
- Sonic Locations
- Sonic Mobile App
- Retail Stores (Walmart, Target, CVS, etc.)
- Online via Sonic’s official website
5. Coupons, Discounts & Promo Codes
Want to save money while ordering at Sonic? Here’s how:
Sonic Offers & Promotions
- Happy Hour Deals – 50% off drinks & slushes (2-4 PM daily)
- Half-Price Cheeseburgers – Every Tuesday via the Sonic App
- BOGO Free Deals – Limited-time promotions on select menu items
- $1.99 Deals – Special discounted combo meals
Where to Find Sonic Coupons
- Sonic App – Get exclusive app-only discounts.
- Sonic Website – Visit sonicdrivein.com for current offers.
- Text Alerts – Subscribe to receive Sonic promo codes via SMS.
- Email Newsletters – Get emailed discounts & birthday rewards.
6. Contactless & Secure Payments
Sonic is continuously upgrading its payment technology to support contactless and secure transactions.
Contactless Payment Options
- Tap-to-Pay with Contactless Cards
- Mobile Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
- QR Code Scanning (Available in some locations)
Safety & Security Measures
- NFC (Near Field Communication) encryption for safe transactions
- Card tokenization to prevent fraud
- Secure app transactions with multi-factor authentication
FAQs About Sonic Drive In Payment Methods
Does Sonic take PayPal?
Not directly, but you can use PayPal-linked Apple Pay or Google Pay at Sonic.
Can I use multiple payment methods in one transaction?
Yes! You can split payments between a gift card and another method.
Does Sonic have a rewards program?
Yes! The Sonic app rewards users with discounts, freebies, and exclusive deals.
How do you pay for Sonic?
You can pay at Sonic using credit or debit cards, cash, mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, or through the Sonic App.
Does Sonic accept Apple Pay?
Yes, Sonic accepts Apple Pay for both in-store and app orders, making payments quick and secure.
Does Sonic Drive-Thru take cash?
Yes, Sonic Drive-Thru locations accept cash payments.
What app does Sonic use to pay employees?
Sonic partners with DailyPay, allowing employees to access their earned wages immediately after their shifts.
What forms of payment does Sonic accept?
Sonic accepts credit and debit cards, cash, mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), and Sonic gift cards.
Does Sonic take phone pay?
Yes, Sonic accepts mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay for a contactless and convenient experience.