What Color Is Diesel Fuel?

September 16, 2025

Diesel fuel is a byproduct of crude oil, coming in different varieties that can be identified by their colors. Let’s take a look at the different types of diesel fuel and what you need to know about the range of colors.

What Is The Color Of Diesel Fuel?

Many manufacturers continue to produce vehicles that run on diesel fuel, including heavy-duty trucks. Regular diesel appears clear without any dye added for coloration. Clear diesel fuel is designed for on-road vehicles with diesel engines.

Other colors of diesel fuel are available. However, United States laws do strictly prohibit the use of these other fuel colors in on-road vehicles.

Diesel Fuel Types And Colors

There are several variations of diesel. Some will be utilized in on-road vehicles, while others are designed for heavy-duty equipment and off-road vehicles.

Clear Diesel Fuel

This is the most common type of diesel fuel, designed specifically for on-road vehicle engines. This type of fuel appears clear although their is a subtle touch of green that may be noticed.

Clear diesel fuel is taxed just like regular gasoline and it is available in every gas station.

Red Diesel Fuel

The government does not levy taxes on the use of this type of diesel fuel. Red diesel is meant for off-road equipment only. Any attempt to use this fuel type in on-road vehicles can result in fines and other legal consequences.

The biggest difference is composition when comparing red, clear, and green diesel fuels. They will also be taxed differently.

Green Diesel Fuel

This type of fuel is manufactured and chemically marked with green to indicate it is only for off-road use. Green diesel is often used for agricultural purposes.

And due to this reason, it is taxed at a reduced rate. The fuel type is strictly regulated by law in order to prohibit either misuse or on-road vehicle use.

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