Credit cards at filling stations in France

[Zbungle]

Can anyone confirm if things have changed in France recently? It used to be that UK credit cards would not work in French 24Hr filling stations and so it was a must to only visit them when the kiosk was open. However, I heard that things have now changed and that the cards can be read by the automatic pumps.

I will always try to fill up when the station is open, but sometimes that isn't convenient. You guys who have been over to France recently, can I now be reasonably sure of getting a fill-up? Or are things still the same? Your advice please.

 

[JohnM20]

Hi Zbungle

I had no trouble at all using my Visa Debit card at supermarket 24hr petrol stations last year but can't offer advice re Credit cards. Sorry.

John M

 

[Peter_374293316]

Hello

We live in France and tour throughout the country.

In my experience most 24 hour petrol stations accept recently issued chip and pin credit and debit cards, especially at the more modern supermarkets or well known chain filling stations on autoroutes etc. Some machines even give the option to choose the language.

The answer is to familiarise yourself with them when there is an alternative method of payment ie the kiosk is open. Worst case scenario make sure you have the cash and ask a friendly French man to put the cost on his (French)card after you have shown him the colour of your money!

Peter

 

[ValA.]

It depends on your issuer, how new your card is, and how new the pump is. Peter's advice is spot-on - try it when you don't need to, and if it works in that pump, then fine. However DON'T assume that because it works in one it will work in all. We've been caught out that way before!

 

[AlanJ]

I also found out the hard way that using the toll roads on a Sunday can also be a problem. Many of the smaller exits are not manned on a Sunday and have to either use card or cash scanning machine.

Luckily there was a very helpful french man behind us that showed us what to do.

 

[Zbungle]

Thanks everyone for your excellent advice.

 

[ValA.]

Yes, it's always best to carry some sort of debit or credit card if you possibly can. Some of the autoroute exits will accept only cards, not cash - and if you don't have one you have to call someone out - which is a d....d nuisance if you're heading for a site which is about to close its gates!

You can use a normal British debit or credit card - just put it in the machines, no pin or anything, and it automatically deducts the toll from your account! Very quick and easy, but NOT if you're not aware that it could happen.