With convenience being the priority today, Sonic Drive-In, America’s beloved fast-food chain, has expanded its digital offerings to meet consumer demands. Sonic Drive-In, renowned for its delicious burgers, mouthwatering hot dogs, and iconic drive-in experience, has adopted modern payment methods to enhance the customer experience and Apple Pay is one of them!
This article explores ‘Does Sonic use Apple Pay?‘. As technology continues to transform the way we live, work, and dine Sonic Drive-In has recognized the importance of providing customers with a secure and efficient payment solution. With Apple Pay, Sonic Drive-In customers can now enjoy their favorite Sonic treats with the tap of their iPhone or Apple Watch, making the ordering process faster and more convenient than ever before.
Join us as we explore the world of Sonic Drive-In and Apple Pay, examining the benefits of this modern payment method and how it aligns with Sonic’s payment preferences. Let’s get started!
Can You Use Apple Pay at Sonic Locations?
Of course, you can! Sonic Drive-In introduced Apple Pay as a payment method for its customers in November 2019. To encourage its usage, Sonic Drive-In offers discounts and special launch promotions as well.
Whether you’re at Sonic to place the order in person or you’re placing an order on their app, Apple Pay is a convenient payment option at Sonic locations. All you need is an Apple device and an active Apple Pay account to take advantage of this payment method.
You may also discover payment options at fast-food joints in our guide on Apple Pay at Dairy Queen.
Setting Up Your Apple Pay Account First!
Before you actually get to use your Apple Pay account for the payments, you have to have Apple Pay set up on your Apple device. Here’s a quick and very easy guide to help you with setting up your Apple Pay account.
- Open your device settings and look for the “Wallet & Apple Pay” option.
- Tap the “Add Card” button to link your credit or debit card to your Apple Pay account. The card you select will become your default payment method when using Apple Pay.
- Fill in the necessary information for the selected payment method to establish a successful connection.
- Once you’ve agreed to Apple Pay’s terms and conditions, your card will be verified successfully.
- With everything set up, you can now enjoy the convenience of making quick and easy payments at Sonic using Apple Pay.
Want to explore payment choices at Taco Bell? Our Taco Bell’s Apple Pay Option article has you covered. Head over to our post and give it a read!
How Do You Use Apple Pay at Sonic Drive-In?
Here’s a simple guide on how to use Apple Pay for payments either through the Sonic App or at the check-in counter:
- First of all, make sure you have an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch) that supports Apple Pay. Your device should also have Apple Pay set up with one or more credit or debit cards linked to it.
- Place your order at the Sonic Drive-In as you normally would. You can do this by using the Sonic Drive-In app (if available in your area) or by visiting the drive-in location in person.
- When you head over to the check-in counter to pay for your order, inform the Sonic staff that you’d like to use Apple They will provide you with an NFC device if you’re at the drive-in location. Just in case a particular location doesn’t allow NFC payments, make use of the App to pay with Apple Pay. If you’re using the Sonic app, look for the Apple Pay option during the checkout process.
- On your Apple device, now access Apple You’ll need to authenticate the payment using your device’s biometric authentication (such as Face ID or Touch ID) or by entering your passcode.
- Hold your Apple device close to the payment terminal, which would be provided by Sonic staff, or use your device to make contactless payments if you’re using the Sonic app. The payment will be processed, and you’ll receive a confirmation on your device.
- Once your payment is accepted, you can enjoy your meal from Sonic Drive-In. We hope you would have found the answer if you had the question in mind, ‘Does Sonic take Apple Pay in person?’.
Also, if you’re a frequent diner at Panda Express, you’ll surely prefer a hassle-free, cashless experience at Panda Express as well! Read our guide on Panda Express Payment Solutions!
What Payment Methods Are Accepted at Sonic?
Sonic Drive-In accepts the following payment methods:
- Cash
- Major debit and credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express, etc.)
- Digital payment like Apple Pay
- Sonic gift cards and coupons
Are you a Starbucks fan? If yes, you’ll be amazed to know that you can use Apple Pay at Starbucks without any limitations or restrictions. Read our article Payment at Starbucks to know more in detail.
Does Sonic Accept Apple Pay on Their Mobile App?
Yes. Sonic accepts Apple Pay in-store as well as on the mobile app. You can order food from their mobile app to have it picked up by yourself from the drive-in. To let the store staff know you’ve arrived, check in on the app when you arrive to pick up your order.

Just in case you’re wondering if Sonic delivers to your doorstep, no it doesn’t. You cannot order food delivery directly from Sonic’s mobile app as it works only for in-person drive-in orders. However, you can order through platforms like UberEats, DoorDash and others. You can place your Sonic orders here, pay with Apple Pay and your order will be delivered to your doorstep!
You might also want to uncover payment alternatives at Dollar Tree in our comprehensive ‘Pay with Apple Pay at Dollar Tree’ guide.
Does Sonic Drive-In Offer Any Cashback for Using Apple Pay?
The use of Apple Pay does offer you a 3% cashback and the same applies to Sonic Drive-In as well. With every payment you make here with Apple Pay, you become eligible to be offered cashback. The rest of the details you can get from the Sonic itself. They could guide you better with cashback offers.
Just in case you want to streamline your shopping experience with Apple Pay at Walmart, you can do so with our informative article on Using Apple Pay at Walmart.
Does Sonic Have Any Rewards or Discounts to Offer?
Yes! Sonic does offer rewards and discounts to its customers.
Sonic has a reward program which is the ultimate loyalty program designed to reward you for your purchases at Sonic Drive-in.
It’s super easy to get started with this very program. Simply sign up for free via the Sonic app, which is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Once you’re onboard, watch the points roll in with every purchase you make at Sonic Drive-In. Build up these points and treat yourself to delectable free food and refreshing drinks.
But wait, there’s more! As a proud member of the Sonic Rewards program, you’ll unlock a variety of exclusive benefits. You can enjoy amazing discounts on select menu items, relish complimentary items added to your orders, and explore other exciting offers. Accessing these exclusive rewards is just so easy. Just log in to your account through the Sonic app and explore the available deals.
And that’s not all! The Sonic Rewards program also serves up discounts on specific menu items. These discounts can be effortlessly applied when you place your order through the Sonic app, or if you have a promo code, just enter it during checkout to enjoy the savings.
Did you know Wendy’s accepts Apple Pay? Learn more about Wendy’s Mobile Payments in our dedicated article.
Benefits of Using Apple Pay at Sonic Drive-In
Using Apple Pay at Sonic Drive-In offers several benefits:
Convenience
First of all, the convenience of course! Apple Pay allows for quick and hassle-free mobile payments. You can pay for your Sonic order with just a tap of your Apple device, eliminating the need to carry physical cash or credit cards.
Security
Apple Pay uses advanced security features, such as tokenization and biometric authentication (like Face ID or Touch ID), to protect your payment information. This adds an extra layer of security compared to traditional payment methods.
Speed
Apple Pay transactions are swift, reducing wait times at the drive-in or counter. This means you can get your food faster and enjoy your meal sooner.
Earn Rewards
If Sonic Drive-In has a rewards program or offers discounts for Apple Pay users, you can earn rewards or enjoy savings on your purchases, making your meals even more affordable.
Track Spending
Apple Pay keeps a record of your transactions, making it easy to track your spending at Sonic Drive-In and manage your budget effectively.
Contactless Payment
Especially in times of health concerns, Apple Pay allows for contactless payments, reducing the need for physical contact with payment terminals and cash.
Does Sonic Take Apple Pay? – FAQs
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”How to pay at Sonic stall with the card?”]To pay at a Sonic Drive-In stall with a card, simply place your order through the speaker system, inform the Sonic staff that you’d like to pay with a card, drive up to the payment window, hand over your credit or debit card to the staff, verify the payment amount, and provide approval for the transaction. The staff will process the card payment, and you’ll receive your order once the payment is successful. Remember to have a valid card with sufficient funds available for your purchase.[/wps_faq]
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”How to order at Sonic drive-thru?”]Ordering at a Sonic Drive-In through the drive-thru is easy: drive up to the menu board and speaker, select your items from the menu, and clearly communicate your order to the Sonic staff through the speaker. Once your order is confirmed, proceed to the payment window, where you can pay with cash or card, and then proceed to the pickup window to collect your order.[/wps_faq]
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”How to enter stall number on Sonic app?”]To enter a stall number in the Sonic app, open the Sonic app and place your order. During the ordering process, you may be requested to specify whether you’re dining in or using the drive-thru. Choose the drive-thru option and look for a section or field that allows you to input your stall number or location, which is often labeled “Stall” or “Stall Number”. Enter the corresponding stall number provided to you at the drive-in stall. Once you’ve completed this step, the Sonic staff will know where to deliver your order, ensuring a smooth and convenient Sonic customer experience when you arrive at the drive-in stall to pick up your food.[/wps_faq]
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”Does Sonic take Google Pay?”]Unfortunately, no. Sonic does not accept Google Pay.[/wps_faq]
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”How to pay with Sonic app at the stall?”]To pay with the Sonic app at the stall, place your order and select your preferred payment method within the app. Once your order and payment details are confirmed, drive to the designated stall at the Sonic Drive-In location. Sonic staff will identify your order and stall number through the app, and your payment will be processed automatically. They will then bring your order directly to your car at the stall.[/wps_faq]
[wps_faq style=”classic” question=”Does Sonic take tap to pay?”]No. Sonic doesn’t take Tap to pay for their orders yet. They only accept Apple Pay for their ‘order ahead’ orders.[/wps_faq]
Conclusion
Sonic Drive-In has surely introduced Apple Pay as a payment method within its app but to use it, you’ll need to set up Apple Wallet on your iOS device and make payments when ordering ahead through the app. While currently limited to in-app usage, it’s hopeful that Sonic may expand its acceptance of Apple Pay to its drive-thru locations for a tap-to-pay experience in the future.
In the meantime, you can still enjoy the convenience of Apple Pay by ordering online through food delivery apps, ensuring you can savor Sonic’s delicious burgers and snacks delivered right to your doorstep.