A new rule now means UK petrol stations must share fuel price changes quickly, making it easier for drivers to find cheaper petrol.
Key takeaways
- Petrol stations must update fuel prices within 30 minutes of a change
- The rule came into effect on 2nd February 2026
- It applies to all UK petrol forecourts, including independents and chains
- Drivers could save 1p to 6p per litre by comparing prices more easily
- You can check live fuel prices using the Confused.com petrol prices tool
What’s changed at UK petrol stations?
UK petrol stations now have a legal duty to report fuel price changes to a central database within 30 minutes.
The rule came into force on 2nd February 2026 and applies to:
- Independent petrol stations
- Supermarket forecourts
- Large fuel chains
Some fuel sales are exempt:
- Business-to-business fuel sales
- Fuel sold in containers
- Certain specialised depots
The aim is to give drivers clearer, faster access to petrol prices across the UK.
What this means for drivers
This change is designed to make fuel costs easier to manage. Industry estimates suggest drivers could save between 1p and 6p per litre by choosing cheaper fuel more often, based on improved price visibility.
How the new fuel finder scheme works
The fuel finder scheme creates a shared system for fuel prices across the UK.
Here’s how it works:
- Petrol stations must register all their forecourts before reporting prices.
- When prices change, stations update them within 30 minutes.
- Updates can be sent through an online portal, an API, text message or phone.
- The price data is shared with third-party services.
Those services include:
- Fuel price apps
- Sat nav systems
- Comparison and journey-planning tools
What this means for drivers
- Near real-time petrol price data
- More informed choice when picking where to refuel
- Increased competition between retailers
Over time, this should make fuel pricing clearer and fairer.
How the new rule is being enforced
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is responsible for enforcement.
Early on, the focus is on:
- Helping petrol stations understand the rules
- Supporting compliance across the industry
Stronger enforcement powers are available under the regulations, with tougher action expected once the scheme is fully embedded.
Tips for finding cheaper fuel
The new rule works best when you use it alongside a bit of planning.
You can:
- Check petrol prices before you travel using our petrol prices tool
- Plan journeys around cheaper refuels, avoid last-minute stops.
- Work out your fuel spend with our fuel cost calculator
- Review your wider car running costs in our car running costs guide
Fuel is only one part of motoring costs. You could also cut costs by choosing to compare car insurance.
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