How much should you tip petrol attendants in South Africa?

Tipping petrol attendants has long been an unwritten rule in South Africa, but with rising living costs and fewer people carrying cash, the question of what is ‘appropriate’ is becoming increasingly contested.

For many motorists, tipping is seen as a small gesture of appreciation for services such as filling up, cleaning windscreens, checking oil and tyres, or assisting at busy forecourts. Yet there is no formal guideline, leaving drivers to navigate social expectations on their own.

Fuel attendants typically earn modest wages, often close to the minimum, and tips can form a meaningful supplement to their income. Supporters of tipping argue that even a small amount can make a difference over the course of a shift, particularly during quieter periods.

However, others feel growing pressure around tipping culture, especially as everyday expenses climb.

Some motorists say they already struggle with fuel costs alone and feel uncomfortable being judged for not tipping or for giving what they canafford.

The shift away from cash has added another layer of complexity. Many drivers simply do not have coins or notes on hand, and while card-based tipping solutions have been discussed in the industry, they are not yet widely available at petrol stations.

“We would recommend that motorists continue tipping petrol attendants with cash,” says Ramolahloane.

Consumer commentators note that tipping remains voluntary and should not be treated as an obligation. They argue that responsibility for fair wages lies with employers, not customers, and that guilt-driven tipping risks normalising low pay.

At the same time, there is broad agreement that politeness and respect cost nothing. Even when motorists choose not to tip, acknowledging attendants and treating them with dignity remains important.

As debates around tipping continue the lack of clear norms means the decision is likely to remain a personal one, shaped by affordability, habit, and individual views on fairness in the service economy.

What do South Africans usually tip petrol attendants?

There is no official standard, but common practice looks like this:

• R5 to R10: Often given for basic service such as filling up and a quick windscreen clean.
• R10 to R20: Common for more attentive service or multiple checks (oil, tyres, water).
• R20 or more: Typically reserved for exceptional service or longer assistance.

To listen to Ramolahloane’s conversations with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, click below: