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If you're renting a car in Cuba, one of the fundamental questions is:

“How do I pay for fuel? Can I use cash? How much does gasoline cost?”

Starting in 2024, Cuba has introduced very strict and entirely new rules for fuel sales. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know to avoid issues, refuel without problems, and understand the cost of gasoline in Cuba in 2025.

No More Cash for Gas: Only Cards Accepted

Since February 2024, it is no longer possible to pay for fuel with cash (neither in Cuban Pesos nor in dollars). The Cuban government has mandated a completely electronic system, available only with:

• International Visa or Mastercard credit cards
• Cuban MLC (Freely Convertible Currency) cards, which can be purchased locally

No banknotes are accepted, not even in dollars or euros.

What Are MLC Cards and Where Can You Buy Them?

MLC cards are prepaid cards that function as an electronic wallet for use only in Cuba. You can purchase them at the following locations:

• CADECA (exchange house) branches
• Some state-run tourism agencies
• Major gas stations or main hotels

You only need your passport to buy one.

Example: you can load 50, 100, or 200 USD or EUR and use the card to pay for fuel, as well as in restaurants, shops, or hotels that operate in MLC.

Why Did Cuba Make This Change?

The government's decision stems from two main reasons:

• To stop the parallel currency exchange market: the black market exchange rate for EUR/CUP surpassed 350:1, making prices in the national currency unsustainable.
• To encourage the official and traceable inflow of hard currency (dollars/euros).

Today, gasoline is paid for only in virtual dollars via the electronic system. According to official sources (Periódico Cubano, TaiwanTrade), rental cars for tourists can only refuel at stations that operate in USD or other convertible foreign currencies.

How Much Does Gasoline Cost in Cuba in 2025?

Prices are listed in MLC (equivalent to the US dollar) and vary slightly by province. On average:

• Regular 90 gasoline: 1.50–1.70 USD per liter
• Especial 94 gasoline: 1.90–2.20 USD per liter
• Diesel: 1.40–1.60 USD per liter

Some gas stations apply a surcharge for payments with international cards.

Note: the price is higher than the average in Latin America and even some European countries.

Where to Refuel?

The official gas station chains are:

• ServiCupet
• Oro Negro
• Some MLC stations dedicated to tourists

Not all pumps accept international cards. Always check before refueling if they accept foreign Visa/Mastercard or only Cuban MLC cards.

What Happens If You Don't Have an Accepted Card?

If you do not have a Visa, Mastercard, or MLC card:

• You will not be able to get gas
• No one will accept cash from you
• You could get stranded

For this reason, anyone renting a car must have a clear plan: either bring an enabled international card or get an MLC card as soon as you arrive in Cuba.

How Does It Work with CUBACenter?

All bookings with CUBACenter include:

• Fuel already included in the price
• The vehicle is delivered with a full tank
• No obligation to return it full (the fuel is prepaid)
• No need to manage MLC or credit cards for fuel

If you need extra fuel during your trip, our team will explain exactly where to get it and which card to use.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Check if your Visa/Mastercard is enabled for international use
• Do not use cards linked to US banks (e.g., American Express, Revolut, Wise)
• As soon as you arrive, consider buying an MLC card at a CADECA office or the airport
• Always ask if the gas station accepts your card before you start pumping gas
• Keep your payment receipt

Don't Confuse Fuel and the Security Deposit

Many people still think that fuel is related to the security deposit. But remember:

• The security deposit has not existed in Cuba since 2020. Read the article on the security deposit here
• The fuel is already included in your booking
• You can drive stress-free without additional expenses

Other Useful Articles

• Read the article on insurance here
• Read the article on driver's licenses here
• Read the article on the security deposit here

Conclusion

In 2025, getting gas in Cuba isn't difficult, but it requires attention:

• You cannot pay with cash
• You need an electronic card (Visa/Mastercard/MLC)
• It's best to plan ahead and arrive prepared

With CUBACenter, fuel is already included: no surprises, no complications.

For transparent bookings, WhatsApp support, and assistance in English:

info@cubacenter.com

www.cubacenter.com