A gas station with the YPF logo and fuel pumps of different colors.
ARGENTINA

Self-service is now in effect at stations: how to use it and what changes

The Government regulated the self-service fuel system at stations across the country

The Secretariat of Energy published Resolution 147/2025, which regulates self-service fuel dispensing throughout the country. This measure aligns with the deregulation of the sector, driven by Decree 46/25.

The system will allow stations to offer a new modality, where the customer directly operates the pump. Each operator can choose whether to adopt the scheme exclusively or combined with the traditional model.

A man with glasses holds a document in front of another man who is leaning over and placing his hand on a book, while a guard in uniform and helmet stands behind them; in the background, there is an Argentine flag and a decorative sculpture.
This measure aligns with the deregulation of the sector | La Derecha Diario

How the user experience will be step by step

Upon entering a station with this modality, the driver will see visible signs indicating the self-service option. At the island, he will need to get out of the vehicle and approach an interactive totem.

There he can choose between:

  • Filling the tank.
  • Loading a specific amount of liters.
  • Entering a fixed amount in pesos.

He will then select the type of fuel (gasoline or diesel, in their super or premium versions). After confirming the option, the pump will be enabled to start the load.

A person filling a car's gas tank with a fuel hose.
The driver will see visible signs indicating the self-checkout option | La Derecha Diario

Payment options

Payment can be made with a credit or debit card, QR code, or cash. If paying in cash, it will be necessary for an operator to approach to complete the transaction.

What modalities are allowed?

The regulation contemplates three formats:

  • Exclusive: only self-service, with mandatory presence of trained personnel.
  • Simultaneous mixed: traditional and self-service pumps coexist.
  • Alternating mixed: models alternate according to time slots.
A silver car being refueled at a gas station with an employee in the background on Christmas Eve 2024.
What modalities are allowed? | La Derecha Diario

The mixed scheme could even allow differentiated prices to encourage its use, which could directly benefit the consumer.

Mandatory safety conditions

Stations must comply with Decree 2407/83 and other technical requirements. Among the key points, it highlights:

  • Clear signage about the use of cell phones and the obligation to turn off the engine and lights.
  • Nozzle locks, "break away" systems, and automatic shut-off valves.
  • Mechanisms that stop the load if the nozzle is not properly inserted.
  • Gloves, disposable paper, and appropriate bins for disposal.
  • Buttons or lights to request assistance from the forecourt.

If the modality is exclusively self-service, a control booth with full visibility of the operation will be required. In mixed models, trained personnel on the forecourt will suffice.

Shell gas station at dusk with several cars refueling on Christmas Eve 2024.
The stations must comply with Decree 2407/83 and other technical requirements | La Derecha Diario

Restrictions

  • Self-service is not allowed for filling jerry cans or trailers.
  • During the unloading of tanker trucks, the service must be interrupted.
  • Minors can't operate the pumps unless they have a driver's license.

Supervision, controls, and priority of attention

Operators must have systems to activate or stop pumps from the booth without cutting all power. They must also assist with priority to:

  • People with reduced mobility.
  • Pregnant women.
  • Adults with children or pets on board.
Person filling a car tank with a green fuel hose at a gas station.
Operators must have systems to activate or stop pumps from the cabin | La Derecha Diario

The supervision of the system will be the responsibility of the Secretariat of Energy. Stations and auditing entities may be sanctioned for non-compliance.

➡️ Argentina

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