The Digital Economy Ministry has introduced a special WhatsApp number to assist with registering for the National Fuel Pass QR code. Individuals who face difficulties during the registration process can obtain assistance by following the steps below: Send your vehicle number via WhatsApp to 0760001919 and do not send the vehicle number as a photo, attach a clear photos of the National Identity Card (NIC) / Driving License or Passport, the Valid Vehicle License (Revenue License), and the Vehicle Registration Certificate (CR). Only the registered owner of the vehicle is eligible to apply for the national fuel pass. The identification number provided must match the owner’s number stated in the CR.

Meanwhile, the majority of technical and registration-related issues associated with the fuel QR code system have now been successfully resolved, the Managing Director of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), Mayura Neththikumarage has announced. According to him, nearly all eligible users have already obtained their QR codes, with only around 10,000 individuals yet to complete the process. In total, more than 400,000 QR codes have been issued so far, he stated.

Neththikumarage acknowledged that a small number of users had encountered difficulties during registration. However, with most system errors now rectified, he urged those affected to attempt the process again, noting that registration has become much smoother. Neththikumarage highlighted the system continues to handle a high volume of users, with approximately 30,000 new registrations being processed every hour. While some users may temporarily experience errors due to heavy traffic, the system remains fully operational and continues to onboard users at scale. He further revealed that corrective measures have already been taken to improve system accuracy, including the removal of nearly two million erroneous or duplicate data entries. As a result, only a very small number of accounts now remain inactive. Emphasising the urgency, he noted the current QR allocation cycle is expected to conclude by the end of the week. He therefore encouraged those who have not yet registered to do so promptly in order to secure their fuel quota without disruption.

Meanwhile, the CPC has identified another key issue affecting the system — vehicles that have changed ownership without the proper legal transfer of documentation. Such cases have created discrepancies, as these vehicles are not properly reflected in the official databases. To address this, a new support mechanism is set to be introduced. Authorities will roll out nine dedicated contact numbers, one for each Province, enabling affected individuals to submit their details and verify their identity. Once verified, necessary steps will be taken to facilitate the issuance of QR codes, Neththikumarage said. Users will be able to submit their information via WhatsApp, after which the officials will review the data and assist in resolving registration issues. 

Elsewhere, the Filling Station Owners’ Association has advised the general public to resolve any issues related to their QR codes prior to visiting filling stations, with the regulation being enforced strictly since yesterday (18). Addressing the media, the President of the Association, Kumar Rajapaksa stated that fuel will not be issued without a valid QR code under any circumstances, including during an emergency situation. He further urged the public to contact the 1919 hotline to resolve any QR code-related issues before arriving at a filling station. While certain concessions were granted in recent days by allowing fuel distribution without QR codes, he emphasised that such flexibility will no longer be permitted. “From yesterday onwards, fuel will be issued strictly through the QR code system. No exceptions will be made, even in emergency situations. In such cases, the public is advised to seek alternative arrangements, such as using another vehicle for essential travel,” he added.