When does a propane tank expire?
A new DOT propane tank is good for 12 years from the date stamped on its collar. After that it needs recertifying before it can be refilled. Here’s how to read the dates.
Find the date on the collar
Look at the metal ring around the valve. Near the spec (like DOT-4BA240) there’s a month and year like 05-14. That’s May 2014, the date the tank was made, so it’s due in May 2026.
If it has been recertified, there’s a newer mark too, like V143124 0926 E: the recertifier’s ID, the month and year (September 2026), and a letter. The newest date is the one that counts.
Enter your date in the tank checker and it tells you whether the tank is due.
What the letter means
- No letter, just a date: the manufacture date. Good for 12 years from that date.
- E: external visual inspection. Good for 5 years.
- S: proof pressure test. Good for 7 years.
- A recertifier’s ID and a date with no letter: volumetric expansion (hydrostatic) test. Good for 12 years.
These intervals are for DOT-4B, 4BA, 4BW and 4E propane cylinders (49 CFR 180.209).
Expiration questions
Do propane tanks expire?
Refillable DOT propane cylinders don’t expire for good, but they do have to be requalified on a schedule. A new grill, RV or forklift cylinder is good for 12 years from the date it was made. After that it can’t be refilled until it’s been recertified.
How long is a recertified tank good for?
It depends on the letter after the date: E (external visual inspection) is good for 5 years, S (proof pressure test) for 7 years, and a date with no letter (volumetric expansion test) for 12 years.
Can I use a tank after it expires?
You can use up the propane that’s already in it. It just can’t be refilled until it’s recertified.
What about the big tank next to my house?
Large permanently installed home tanks and motorhome tanks are ASME tanks, not DOT cylinders. They don’t get this kind of recertification. Your propane company looks after those.
Have tanks that are due?
Book online, call or text (530) 718-9129, or email eliblanco502@gmail.com.