Got an odd-numbered plate? Here’s where Russia is rationing gasoline by license plate as the fuel crisis deepens.

Russia’s fuel crisis is continuing.

Many regions have imposed limits on how many liters of fuel drivers can purchase at one time — restrictions introduced by both local authorities and gas station chains.

Fuel is unavailable at some stations, while long lines have formed at those that do have it.

Authorities have tried to reassure Russians that the shortage will soon be resolved, urging patience and criticizing what they call “panic buying.” The situation has not improved, however.

Some regions have decided to move to a system of selling fuel based on license plate numbers: on even-numbered days, vehicles whose plates begin (or end) with an even digit can fill up, while on odd-numbered days, those with odd digits can.

A similar system, known as “odd-even,” has been used in other countries to combat fuel shortages — including in the United States, where it was introduced in 2012 in states affected by Hurricane Sandy. ...