At a Gas Station in Brazil: Fuel, Payment, and Directions
Practice the words for gasoline, ethanol, a full tank, and common payment questions at Brazilian gas stations.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
A gas station is a posto de combustível or simply posto. Gasoline is gasolina; ethanol is etanol or álcool. Brazil has flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either, but check the vehicle’s fuel requirements before choosing.
Name the fuel and amount you want
The attendant may ask how much you want or whether you want a full tank. Cheio means full. You can also specify a fixed amount in reais, but confirm the fuel type before the attendant starts.
Pode completar com gasolina, por favor?
Could you fill it up with gasoline, please?
Quero colocar cem reais de etanol.
I’d like one hundred reais of ethanol.
Este carro aceita etanol?
Does this car take ethanol?
Ask how to pay and get a receipt
Some stations let you pay with a card, cash, or Pix, but payment options vary. Ask before filling if you need a particular method. Comprovante means receipt or proof of payment.
If you are driving in Brazil, useful nearby services include calibrar os pneus (check tire pressure) and verificar o óleo (check the oil). A staff member can explain what is available at that station.
Aceita cartão?
Do you accept cards?
Posso pagar por Pix?
Can I pay by Pix?
Pode me dar o comprovante?
Could you give me the receipt?
Put it into practice
Say the fuel type before the amount, confirm the vehicle accepts it, and ask which payment methods are available at that station.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I’d like one hundred reais of ethanol”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.