Finding a public EV charger near you
The fastest way to find a charger is to use a mapping app or dedicated charger network app on your phone. PlugShare, ChargePoint, and EVgo are the three largest networks in the United States, and each has a free app that shows real-time availability, pricing, and connector types at stations near you. You can also search "EV charging near me" in Google Maps or Apple Maps, which will show public chargers within a few miles of your location.
When you search, the map will show you the charger's address, hours, whether it's currently available, and what type of connector it has. Some chargers are free; others charge by the minute, by the kilowatt-hour, or by subscription. Prices and payment methods vary widely by network and location, so check the app before you drive there.
If you're traveling and need a charger in an unfamiliar area, the same apps work across state lines. Many highway rest stops and shopping centers now have chargers, so you can plan a route that includes a charging stop the same way you'd plan a gas station stop on a long drive.
Key Takeaways
- PlugShare, ChargePoint, and EVgo are the main charger networks, and each has a free app showing real-time availability and pricing near you.
- Google Maps and Apple Maps also display public chargers, though the dedicated apps usually show more detail about connector types and current availability.
- Chargers at the same location may be owned by different networks and have different prices, so compare options before you plug in.
- Charging speed depends on the charger type—Level 2 chargers take several hours, while DC fast chargers can add 100 miles in 20 to 30 minutes.
- Most chargers require a credit card or account with the network, though some locations offer free charging as a customer perk.
Understanding charger types and charging speed
Not all chargers are the same speed. Level 2 chargers are the most common at shopping centers, parking garages, and workplaces. They add 3 to 10 miles of range per hour, so a full charge takes 4 to 10 hours depending on your vehicle's battery size. Level 2 chargers use a standard plug that most EVs can accept, though some older Tesla vehicles need an adapter.
DC fast chargers are much quicker and are usually found at highway rest stops and dedicated charging stations. They add 100 to 200 miles of range in 20 to 30 minutes, though the charging speed slows down as the battery gets fuller. DC fast chargers are more expensive per minute than Level 2, but they're worth it if you're on a long trip or in a hurry.
When you search for a charger, the app will tell you which type it is. If you're planning a road trip, look for DC fast chargers along your route. For daily errands or work, a Level 2 charger is usually fine since you have time while you shop or work.
How to pay and set up an account
Most charger networks require you to create an account and add a payment method before you can charge. You can do this through the app on your phone in a few minutes. Some networks charge a monthly subscription fee (usually $10 to $20) that lowers the per-minute or per-kilowatt-hour rate; others charge only when you use them with no membership required.
When you arrive at a charger, open the app, find the specific charger location, and start a charging session. The app will show you the cost in real time. You'll receive a receipt and a summary of how much energy you added to your battery. Some chargers also have a physical card reader or QR code you can scan if you prefer not to use the app.
If you charge regularly at work or home, you may not need to use public chargers often. But having an account set up ahead of time means you're ready if you need to charge while traveling or if your home charger is temporarily unavailable.
Charger availability and what to do if one is broken
Chargers sometimes malfunction or are occupied when you arrive. The app will usually show you whether a charger is working and how many of its plugs are in use. If you arrive and find a charger is broken or all plugs are taken, the app can direct you to the next nearest charger, often just a few blocks away.
If a charger is broken, you can report it through the app so the network knows to send someone to fix it. Most networks aim to repair broken chargers within a few days, though the timeline varies. In the meantime, use the app to find an alternative charger nearby.
During peak times—early morning, lunch, or evening—popular chargers may have a wait. If you're not in a hurry, the app can show you less busy chargers in the area, even if they're slightly farther away.
Charger etiquette and what happens after you're charged
When your vehicle is fully charged, move it so the charger is free for the next person. Leaving a fully charged car at a charger ties up the plug and can frustrate other drivers. Some networks charge an extra fee if you don't move your car within a set time after charging is complete, so check the app for the specific rules at each location.
If you're charging at a workplace or shopping center, you can usually leave your car while you work or shop. The charger will stop automatically when your battery is full, and you'll get a notification on your phone. For DC fast chargers on the highway, plan to stay nearby since charging only takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Chargers at home versus public chargers
Most EV owners install a Level 2 charger at home, which is cheaper per kilowatt-hour than public chargers and more convenient for daily charging. If you have a driveway or garage, a home charger is usually the best option for your regular charging needs. Public chargers are most useful for road trips, emergencies, or if you don't have a place to install a home charger.
Some apartment buildings and workplaces offer free or discounted charging to residents and employees. If you live in an apartment or work somewhere with a charger, you may rarely need to use a public charger. Check with your landlord or employer to see what's available.
Planning a road trip with an EV
Before a long drive, use the charger app to map out DC fast chargers along your route. Most EV owners plan to stop every 150 to 200 miles for a 20 to 30 minute charge. The apps let you save favorite chargers and plan a route that includes charging stops, similar to planning gas station stops.
read the charger app before you leave so you have it available offline if your phone loses signal. Some chargers are in remote areas where cell service is spotty, so having the app pre-loaded with location information is helpful. You can also call the charger network's customer service number if you get stuck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member of a charger network to use it?
No. You can create a free account with any network and pay per use without a membership. Some networks offer optional monthly subscriptions that lower the per-minute rate if you charge frequently. You can use multiple networks, so you're not locked into one.
What if my car has a different connector type than the charger?
Most EVs sold in the United States now use the same connector standard, but older Teslas use a different plug. If your car doesn't match the charger, you'll need an adapter, which you can buy for $30 to $100. The charger app will tell you the connector type before you drive there, so you can check compatibility.
Can I charge for free anywhere?
Some chargers are free, especially at shopping centers, hotels, and workplaces that offer charging as a customer perk. The app will show you which chargers are free. However, most public chargers charge a fee, so don't assume a charger is free without checking the app first.
How long does it take to charge on a road trip?
A DC fast charger adds 100 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes, so you can charge enough for the next leg of your trip while you grab food or use the restroom. A Level 2 charger takes 4 to 10 hours, so it's not practical for road trips unless you're staying overnight.
What if I can't find a charger near me?
Charger coverage varies by region. Rural areas have fewer chargers than cities and highways. If you can't find one nearby, check the app's map to see if there's one a bit farther away, or contact the charger network's customer service to ask about chargers in your area or when new ones are planned.