How to locate charging stations in your area
The fastest way to find a charging station is to use a dedicated mapping app or website that shows real-time availability. The three largest networks in North America are Tesla Supercharger (for Tesla vehicles and some others), Electrify America, and EVgo. Each maintains its own map showing station locations, number of chargers, connector types, and whether chargers are currently in use.
If you do not know which network serves your area, start with PlugShare or ChargeHub, which aggregate chargers from all networks on a single map. You can filter by connector type (Level 2, DC fast charging, Tesla connector), network, and whether the charger is free or paid. Both apps show user reviews and photos, which helps you understand what to expect when you arrive.
Many charging stations are located at shopping centers, parking garages, hotels, and workplaces rather than dedicated charging facilities. Knowing this helps you plan errands around charging time — you can charge while you shop or work rather than waiting at a standalone station.
Key Takeaways
- PlugShare and ChargeHub show chargers from all networks on one map, while Tesla Supercharger, Electrify America, and EVgo each run their own apps and maps.
- Chargers are classified by speed: Level 2 chargers add 25 to 30 miles per hour of charging, while DC fast chargers add 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes.
- Many chargers are located at retail locations, workplaces, and hotels, so you can charge while doing other activities rather than waiting at a dedicated station.
- Connector types vary by vehicle and region, so check your car's manual or the app to confirm which connectors your vehicle accepts before you visit a station.
- Charging costs and payment methods differ by network and location — some are free, some charge per minute or per kilowatt-hour, and some require membership.
Understanding charger types and charging speed
Level 2 chargers are the most common type and are found at homes, workplaces, shopping centers, and public parking lots. They add approximately 25 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. A full charge on a Level 2 charger typically takes 4 to 10 hours depending on your vehicle's battery size. These chargers use standard 240-volt electrical outlets and are cheaper to install than fast chargers.
DC fast chargers are designed for longer trips and highway travel. They add 150 to 200 miles of range in 20 to 30 minutes, though charging speed slows as the battery approaches full capacity. DC fast chargers require specialized electrical infrastructure and are more expensive to operate, so they are usually found along highways, at major retail locations, and at dedicated charging hubs rather than in residential neighborhoods.
The difference matters for your trip planning. If you are charging at work or home overnight, a Level 2 charger is sufficient. If you are taking a road trip or need to charge during a short stop, you need a DC fast charger. Most mapping apps let you filter by charger type so you can find the right speed for your situation.
Connector types and vehicle compatibility
Not all chargers work with all vehicles because different manufacturers use different connector standards. Tesla vehicles use the Tesla connector (also called the North American Charging Standard, or NACS), which is becoming the standard across the industry. Most non-Tesla vehicles use the CCS connector (Combined Charging System), which is the standard for DC fast charging in North America.
Level 2 chargers are more flexible — many support both Tesla and CCS connectors, or come with adapters. However, DC fast chargers are often network-specific. Tesla Superchargers historically worked only with Tesla vehicles, though Tesla has begun opening some Superchargers to other brands. Electrify America and EVgo primarily serve CCS vehicles.
Before you visit a charging station, check your vehicle's manual or the app listing to confirm the connector type. Most mapping apps display which connectors are available at each location. If you own a non-Tesla vehicle and are unsure whether a station will work, call the station operator or check the app's user reviews — other drivers often note compatibility issues.
Charging networks and payment methods
Tesla Supercharger requires a Tesla account or compatible vehicle. Pricing varies by location and time of day, and Tesla charges per kilowatt-hour. You pay through the Tesla app and do not need a separate membership.
Electrify America operates over 900 fast-charging locations across North America. You can pay per session through the Electrify America app, or purchase a monthly membership. Membership costs vary but typically range from $4 to $14 per month and offer discounted rates per kilowatt-hour.
EVgo runs over 1,200 fast chargers and offers both pay-as-you-go and membership options. Like Electrify America, EVgo charges per kilowatt-hour, and membership discounts the per-kilowatt-hour rate. Some workplaces and apartment buildings partner with EVgo to offer free or discounted charging to residents and employees.
Level 2 networks vary widely. Some are free (often at retail locations that want to attract customers), some charge a monthly membership fee, and some charge per hour or per kilowatt-hour. ChargeHub and PlugShare show the payment method for each location, so you can plan accordingly.
Planning a road trip with charging stops
Road trips require different planning than daily charging. Start by mapping your route on PlugShare or ChargeHub and identifying DC fast-charging stations along your path. Most electric vehicles can travel 200 to 300 miles on a full charge, so plan stops roughly every 150 to 200 miles to keep your battery from dropping too low.
Charge to 80 percent rather than 100 percent on road trips. Charging slows significantly after 80 percent, so stopping at 80 percent and moving on is faster than waiting for a full charge. Most mapping apps show estimated charging time to 80 percent, which helps you plan realistic stop durations.
Check the app the day before your trip to see which chargers are currently operational. Chargers occasionally go offline for maintenance, and knowing this in advance lets you adjust your route. If a charger you planned to use is down, the app will show you alternative stations nearby.
Charging at home and workplace
Home charging is the most convenient option if you have a driveway or garage. A Level 2 home charger costs $500 to $2,000 installed and adds 25 to 30 miles per hour. Most owners charge overnight and start each day with a full battery. If you have a long commute or drive frequently, home charging is nearly always cheaper than public charging.
Workplace charging is increasingly common, especially at larger employers and tech companies. If your workplace offers Level 2 charging, you can charge during your workday and extend your effective range without paying for public charging. Some employers offer free charging as a benefit, while others charge a small fee or require membership in a workplace charging program.
Apartment dwellers without dedicated parking face the biggest challenge. Some apartment buildings are installing Level 2 chargers in parking lots or garages. If your building does not have chargers, check whether nearby public Level 2 chargers are available — many shopping centers and parking garages offer free or low-cost Level 2 charging during business hours.
Using mapping apps effectively
PlugShare and ChargeHub both let you filter by charger type, network, and availability. You can also set your vehicle type, and the app will show only compatible chargers. Saving favorite locations makes it easier to find chargers you use regularly.
User reviews on these apps are valuable. Drivers often note whether chargers are actually working, how long the wait is during peak hours, and whether the location is safe or convenient. A charger that shows as available in the app but has recent reviews saying it is broken is not worth a trip.
Set up notifications for chargers near your home or workplace. Some apps alert you when a charger becomes available or when prices drop at a particular location. This is especially useful if you live in an area with high demand and limited chargers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Level 2 and DC fast charging?
Level 2 chargers add 25 to 30 miles per hour and take 4 to 10 hours for a full charge. DC fast chargers add 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes. Level 2 is for daily charging at home or work; DC fast charging is for road trips and quick top-ups.
Can I use a Tesla Supercharger if I don't own a Tesla?
Tesla has opened some Superchargers to non-Tesla vehicles, but not all. Check the Tesla app or PlugShare to see which Superchargers near you accept non-Tesla vehicles. You will need a Tesla account or compatible app to pay.
Do I need a membership to use public chargers?
No. Most networks offer pay-as-you-go options through their apps. Membership is optional and typically saves money only if you charge frequently. Many Level 2 chargers at retail locations are free.
How do I know if a charger is actually working?
Check the app's real-time status and read recent user reviews. Chargers occasionally malfunction or go offline. If reviews from the past few days say the charger is broken, it probably is — contact the network operator or try a different location.
What should I do if I arrive at a charger and it is not working?
Use the app to report the issue and contact the network operator. Most networks have customer service phone numbers in the app. In the meantime, use PlugShare or ChargeHub to find the nearest working charger and adjust your route.