Quote:
Originally Posted by memo-p
I recently heard that extranjeros need to have a permit to buy gas in Bolivia. Is there any truth to this, or is easy enough just to drive up to a pump?
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I sincerely doubt it. Sounds like whoever you were talking to was confused about the relatively new system aimed at fighting contraband gas exports. There is a new system implemented here where locals have to have a permit to buy gas at the subsidized rate. On cages it is a sticker with some embedded electronics. On a motorcycle it is an ID card and an electronic device that attaches to the bike or to your key ring. So far no one has asked for my ID when filling up my motorcycle. They do make sure I have Bolivian license plates though. I haven't paid attention in the cage, but my wife tells me that she has noticed them checking the sticker when she stops for gas. My guess it that is only because it is easier to check than to walk around the back to look at the license plates.
If you have foreign plates you buy gas at the unsubsidized rate. No permit required as far as I know. Ill try to remember to ask next time Im at the pump to see if anything has changed in that regard.
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