The Army and Air Force Exchange Service stopped selling fuel coupons in Germany on Monday, a little more than two weeks before they are set to expire.

Drivers who have valid AAFES fuel coupons can still use them at off-base Esso stations, at Aral gas stations on the autobahn and at AAFES filling stations through the end of the year. Unused coupons can be refunded at AAFES locations.

As of Jan. 1, fuel ration cards will be required to purchase fuel tax free at AAFES and Esso filling stations across Germany.

According to an internal AAFES memo, existing fuel coupons will not be extended beyond the end of the year.

Most drivers eligible to buy fuel tax free in Germany already have the ration cards, which became available near the end of May. The plastic ration cards resemble credit cards and are available at nearly two dozen AAFES locations.

To find a location near you, go to www.imcom-europe.army.mil/sites/news/fuelcard.asp and click on "Issue Sites."