Here’s Where Drivers Can Finally Pump Their Own Gas After 72-Year Ban

Pumping gas is something the vast majority of drivers in North America are all too familiar with, but there are still gas stations where attendants can do the work for you.

In the U.S. state of Oregon, it’s actually your only option due to a ban on self-service gas pumps that has been in place since 1951 (with a few modern exceptions including at night in rural counties and during emergency situations like wildfires). 

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However, it’s all about to change. Last week, state lawmakers approved a bill to end the ban. The change will take effect immediately after Governor Tina Kotek signs the bill into law.

Obviously, the role of gas station attendants has evolved quite a bit over the decades. Originally, those employees would not only fill the gas tank, but they could also clean the windows, check the engine oil and even inflate the car’s tires.

Nowadays, they spend most of their time serving customers inside the gas station, as many places struggle to find staff. In Oregon, oil companies and the Northwest Grocery Association, along with legions of motorists, have long complained that the lack of gas attendants is causing long lines at the pump, and that a number of the available pumps have to be shut down as a result.

The new bill will still require at least half the available pumps to offer full service. It will also prevent station operators from charging a higher price to those customers wanting assistance.

With Oregon changing its legislation, New Jersey becomes the only state in the U.S. that doesn't allow motorists to pump their own gas. The ban has been in place there since 1949.