Abstract: A description is given of a method for filling the fuel supply system in an internal combustion engine, in which the fuel pump is activated by the control unit. If the control unit recognizes, as a function of measured variables, that filling with fuel should take place, it activates the fuel pump in a manner such that a sufficient filling of fuel is already obtained before the internal combustion engine starts. If, on the other hand, the control unit recognizes a normal start, the customary method for controlling the electric fuel pump is executed. The time control of the electric fuel pump is changed over to normal activation also as a function of recognized termination conditions.