How to pump gas: Important steps to teach your teens

Is your teenager getting ready to drive? Teaching your teen how to pump gas is critical for safety as a driver and a passenger. Even if you live in New Jersey (the only U.S. state where it’s illegal to pump your own gas), your teen should know how to gas up properly. 

Although pumping gas might seem straightforward, there are several important steps to remember when guiding your teen through the process - especially when it comes to safety. Here's a step-by-step guide on teaching your teen how to pump gas:

1. Find a safe gas station: If you don’t know the nearest gas station, use your phone, or a navigation app, or ask for recommendations from friends or family. Make sure any gas station you visit is brightly lit, and the pumps are working properly. 

2. Know your gas tank “side” and pull up to the pump: Is your gas tank on the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the vehicle? Once you know that, drive up to an available pump and park your car so the gas tank door or cap is facing the pump. (Remember to put the gearshift park so you don’t roll away!)

3. Know your fuel type: Most gas stations offer different types of fuel, such as regular, premium, and diesel. Make sure to choose the correct type recommended for your vehicle. NEVER choose diesel unless you're 100% certain your vehicle requires it. Note: If you do need diesel, it often (but not always) has its own separate pump at a gas station. 

4. Turn off your engine: For safety reasons, always turn off your vehicle engine fully before pumping gas. While the risk may be small, it is possible for gasoline fumes to mix with static electricity from a running engine and potentially cause a fire or explosion. 

5. Turn off your cell phone: While it’s not a fire hazard, phones and devices are a distraction that can lead to other dangerous mistakes at the gas pump - like forgetting to turn off your engine or driving away with the pump still in the tank.

6. Ask any smokers to stop: Gas and smoke = fire hazard. Smoking near gas pumps is a potential fire hazard. This includes vapes.

7. Open the gas tank: To open your gas tank, locate the lever or button inside your car, usually near the driver's seat. Pull or push it to release the fuel door. If you have a hybrid or newer car, it might be an icon on the touchscreen. 

8. Select your payment method: Most gas stations offer both self-service or in-person payment options. For self-service, select your preferred payment method before beginning to fuel up, usually by inserting your card or selecting cash. If you use a card, you might also be prompted to enter the Zip code associated with your card.

9. Open your gas tank: Locate the lever or button that opens the gas tank. (In some cars, you might need to manually open the gas tank door.) Unscrew or remove the interior cap to open the fuel tank.

10. Lift the gas nozzle and insert it into the gas tank: Once you’ve selected your fuel type (usually one of a few buttons next to the gas nozzle), lift the nozzle from the pump and insert it into your gas tank's opening. Make sure to hold onto the nozzle securely so gas doesn’t spill out onto you.

11. Begin pumping gas: Squeeze the trigger on the nozzle to start pumping gas into your tank. Most pumps have an auto-stop feature that will automatically stop when your tank is full.

12. Return the gas nozzle to the pump: Once you’re done pumping gas, replace the nozzle back onto the pump in its holder.

13. Close your gas tank and pay: Close your gas cap and tank door securely and head to the payment kiosk if you selected cash as your payment method. If you use a card, you can leave after gassing and paying at the pump.

14. Restart your engine: You’re done!

Tips for pumping gas

• Always use caution when handling gasoline. Keep a safe distance from the pump while fueling up.

• If you accidentally spill gas, clean it immediately and notify the gas station attendant if necessary.

• Make sure to securely close your gas tank to avoid any fuel leaks.

• Do not use your phone or any other electronic devices while pumping gas. This can be a fire hazard.

FAQs

Q: Can I let my teenager pump gas on their own?

A: If they are of legal driving age, teenagers can pump gas as long as they have been properly taught and are mature enough to handle the task. Supervising them the first few times is wise to ensure they know how to pump gas properly and safely.

Q: At what age can my child legally pump gas?

A: The legal age varies from state to state. It's typically between 16-18 years, but it's best to confirm with local regulations.

Q: Should I supervise my teenager the first few times they pump gas?

A: Definitely. Supervision ensures they follow the correct process and helps avoid any potential hazards.

Q: What should my teenager do if the gas pump doesn't stop automatically?

A: Teach them to keep an eye on the pump and the indicator that it’s still fueling. If it doesn't stop automatically when the tank is full, they should release the trigger immediately to prevent overflows. It’s also a good idea for teens to know the fuel capacity of the vehicle they’re driving so they know when the tank is full. 

Q: What should my teenager do if they choose the wrong fuel type?

A: If they haven't started pumping, they can simply select the correct type. If they've already begun, they should stop pumping immediately and seek assistance from the gas station attendant.

Q: Can my teenager pump gas if they don't have a driver's license yet?

A: They can still learn the process of pumping gas even if they aren't licensed to drive. But they must be of legal driving age or the legal minimum age allowed to pump gas in that state.

Q: How can my teenager ensure their safety while pumping gas?

A: Teach them to be alert and avoid distractions like using a cell phone. Always turn off the engine before pumping gas. Never smoke, including vaping. If someone nearby is smoking, ask them to stop. It’s a serious fire hazard at a gas station. And finally, before they drive off, give a final check to make sure the pump is not still in the gas tank!

Q: Is it safe for my teenager to pump gas at night?

A: If your teenager has to fuel up at night, make sure the area is well-lit and they remain alert to their surroundings. Make sure their wallet or any other valuables are safely out of view.

Q: What should my teenager do in case of a gas spill?

A: Avoid any ignition sources like smoke or a running engine. Inform the station attendant immediately and follow their instructions. If they have any gas on their skin, wash immediately with clean water and soap.  

Q: What should they do if the gas pump seems to be malfunctioning?

A: They should stop using the pump immediately and notify the station attendant.

Q: Can my teenager pay for the gas with cash?

A: Most gas stations offer card and cash payment options at the kiosk.

Q: Should my teenager keep the receipt after paying?

A: Keeping the receipt is always good practice as it helps track fuel expenses and serves as proof of purchase.

Q: Can someone else pump gas for my teenager if they aren't comfortable doing it themselves?

A: Many gas stations offer full service where an attendant can pump gas for you. However, this service might come at an extra cost. Overall, teaching your teen how to pump gas is a valuable life skill that will come in handy as they become independent drivers.

Q: In what states is it illegal for teens to pump their own gas? 

A: In the United States, only New Jersey has laws that prohibit self-service gas stations. In all other states, anyone with a valid driver's license can pump their own gas. If your teen doesn’t have a license, check your state regulations before allowing them to pump gas on their own.

Q: Can my teenager use my credit or debit card to pay for gas? 

A: Yes, as long as they have permission and know the PIN or security code for the card. They might also need to know the Zip code associated with the card. However, gas stations can be targets for credit card fraud. Be sure to monitor your card statements to ensure there are no unauthorized charges.

Q: Is pumping gas different for electric or hybrid vehicles?

A: Fully electric vehicles have specific charging stations and cannot use gas. Most hybrid vehicles accept traditional gas but might have smaller capacities or different fuel requirements. Make sure to research and inform your teenager on how to properly fuel and/or charge their vehicle. Additionally, some gas stations may have designated charging spots for electric or hybrid vehicles, so it's important to pay attention to signage and instructions at the gas station.

The importance of learning how to pump gas

Pumping gas is a basic but important responsibility. By following these steps and helpful tips, you can teach your teen to pump their own gas and fuel up confidently and safely. 

Want more tips and tricks to raise smart decision-makers? Visit Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, parenting, finance, and fun.