Around 422 motorists in Britain drive off without paying for fuel every week. Fuel theft, known as 'bilking' rose by nearly 50% between 2024 and 2025. With the soaring price of fuel and general cost of living believed to be behind the rise.

It costs retailers an estimated £5.5 million a year. And before you say anything about their profit margins, it's us honest punters that bear the burden of that in the price we pay per litre.

But driving off accidentally without paying is actually more common that you might think. You fill up. You get distracted. You drive off… and then it hits you. “I didn’t pay.”

If that’s you, take a breath. This isn’t the first time it’s happened, and in most cases, it’s straightforward to put right.

This guide explains exactly what happens and what you should do next.

First things first: is it illegal?

Yes, let's be clear, in the eyes of the law driving off without paying for your fuel is technically theft and an offence under the Theft Act 1978.

However, in most genuine cases where it’s an honest mistake, it’s usually treated as a civil matter first, not a criminal one and easy to resolve.

The key difference is intent.

• Accidental - is usually resolved by paying
• Deliberate - can lead to police involvement

If you’ve simply forgotten, the most important thing is what you do next.

What should you do immediately?

If you realise you haven’t paid:

Go back to the petrol station

If you’re nearby, return as soon as possible and explain what’s happened.

Or call them

If you can’t return straight away, call the station. Most will have already logged the incident using your registration.

Pay as soon as you can

They’ll normally arrange payment either:

• Over the phone
• In person
• Or via a payment notice system

The sooner you deal with it, the simpler it is.

What happens if you don’t do anything?

It might be embarrassing but acknowledging your mistake and being proactive in rectifying it will save you a lot of hassle. Doing nothing and hoping no one notices is not a good idea and will almost certainly get you in more trouble.

Petrol stations use ANPR (automatic number plate recognition), so your vehicle will almost certainly have been recorded.

If payment isn’t made:

• You may receive a payment demand letter
• Additional admin fees can be added
• The case may be passed to a debt recovery agency
• In more serious cases, it can be reported to the police

It’s rarely worth letting it get this far, and easily avoided by acting quickly.

Common situations (and what to do)

“I used pay-at-pump, but something went wrong”

Occasionally payments fail or don’t fully process. Check your bank first. If in doubt, contact the petrol station to confirm.

“I only realised later that day”

Don;t panic, this happens a lot. Call the station, explain, and arrange payment. Being proactive makes all the difference.

“It was at a supermarket petrol station”

Same process applies. Most supermarket stations have centralised systems, so you may be directed to a helpline or payment service.

What NOT to do

If this has happened to you, avoid these common mistakes:

Don’t ignore it and hope it goes away - it won't. Being proactive will help get it resolved quickly and with minimal stress and cost to you. 

Don’t assume “it’s only a small amount”. Theft is theft and most retailers have apolicy of pursuing them all, regardless of the amount.

Don’t wait to be contacted. The longer it’s left, the more complicated (and expensive) it can become. Being proactive also demonstrates it was a genuine mistake.

Will the police get involved?

In genuine cases where you:

• Return promptly
• Make contact
• Pay what’s owed

…it’s very unlikely.

Police involvement is typically reserved for repeat or deliberate offences.

If you’ve driven off without paying:

• Act quickly
• Be honest
• Pay as soon as possible

That’s usually the end of it.

Need a bit of advice?

If you’re unsure what to do, you’re always welcome to get in touch or pop in.

We speak to customers about all sorts of situations like this, and we’ll always point you in the right direction, no judgement, just straightforward advice.

Contact Us

Driving off without paying for petrol - FAQs

Is driving off without paying classed as theft?

Technically yes, but genuine mistakes are usually treated as civil matters if resolved quickly. Being proactive and getting in contact as soon as you realise is the best approach. 

How long do I have to go back and pay?

Get in touch with the fuel retailer as soon as possible. The quicker you act, the less likely it is to escalate.

Will I get a fine?

Not usually, but you may be charged admin fees if payment is delayed.

Can I pay later if I go back?

Yes. Most petrol stations will allow you to settle the payment once you return or make contact.