How do you pay to charge an electric car at a charging station?
You pay by linking a payment method to the charging session—credit/debit card, mobile wallet, RFID card, or an operator app—and the charge is billed based on energy delivered (per kilowatt-hour) or time connected (per minute), with possible additional fees. This guide explains the options, steps, and tips to help you pay smoothly at most stations.
Payment methods you’ll encounter
Charging networks support a variety of payment options. The exact options depend on the station and country, but these are the most common.
Card and mobile-wallet payments
Most stations accept contactless credit or debit cards and digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Some chargers require you to swipe or insert a card, others simply tap to start.
- Credit and debit cards with contactless tap-to-pay capability at the charger.
- Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay when supported by the network.
- Direct card payments via a linked account in the charging network’s app (where available).
Availability varies by region and network; check the charger screen or your app before you start.
RFID/access cards and account-based entry
Some networks issue RFID cards or require an account to unlock a session. These cards are handy for repeated use at multiple stations within the same network.
- RFID cards issued by the network that you scan at the reader to start/stop charging.
- Network accounts that unlock sessions through the charger interface or a companion app.
If you lose access, contact the network provider; some stations allow switching to a card or app within the same account.
In-car and app-based payments
Some automakers and charging networks let you initiate and pay for charging from the vehicle’s infotainment system or a dedicated mobile app. This can simplify charging for drivers who switch stations often.
- In-vehicle payment via the car’s charging app or navigation system.
- Network or operator apps that link your payment method and manage sessions remotely.
When using app-based payments, keep the app updated and ensure it supports the stations you plan to use, especially when roaming between networks.
How to start charging
To begin, you generally follow a standard flow at the charger. The exact steps can vary, but the core actions are consistent across networks.
- Locate a compatible station via a map app, the operator’s app, or your vehicle’s navigation system.
- Activate the charger by selecting the station and initiating a session with your chosen payment method (card, app, RFID, or in-car system).
- Connect the charging plug to your car and confirm the session on the screen or in-app.
- Monitor charging status and estimated time to full or to the desired energy amount.
- End the session when you’re finished, unplug, and save or receive a receipt for your records.
Most networks provide a real-time cost display and a receipt in the app or via email. If a payment fails, try an alternative method or contact network support for help.
What you’ll pay
Pricing varies by country, network, and charger speed. Most networks bill by energy, time, or a mix, and some add fees for activation or idle time after charging completes.
Pricing models
Below are the typical ways stations charge for usage.
- Per kilowatt-hour (kWh): You pay for the actual energy delivered to the car, common for DC fast charging and many Level 2 stations.
- Per minute: The charge is based on time connected to the charger, used in some regions or at certain charger types; rates may be capped by the maximum power level.
- Session or activation fees: A flat fee charged at the start of a session, sometimes offset by lower per-kWh or per-minute rates.
- Idle or grace fees: If the car remains connected after charging completes, some networks charge idle fees to keep the charger available for others.
- Taxes and roaming charges: Depending on location, you may see value-added taxes or roaming fees if using a network across regions.
Understanding the rate structure before starting helps avoid surprises and ensures you pick the most cost-effective option for your trip.
Networks, roaming, and tips
With multiple networks operating across regions, many drivers use apps that support roaming or unify billing across networks. Here’s what to know.
Networks and apps to consider
This list covers major networks and the kinds of access they offer. Availability depends on your country and the charger you use.
- ChargePoint, Electrify America, EVgo, Greenlots (primarily in the U.S.; many stations also support roaming via third-party apps).
- Shell Recharge, BP Pulse, Fastned, IONITY (primarily in Europe; supports roaming and multi-network billing).
- New Motion, Allego, Plugsurfing, and regional aggregators that offer a single account for multiple networks.
If you travel, check whether your home network offers roaming in your destination country or if you should create a temporary account with a local network.
Practical tips for a smoother experience
These practical steps help reduce friction when paying and charging.
- Keep a payment method with sufficient funds or a valid card on file in the preferred network app.
- Download and log in to the networks you plan to use; enable roaming if needed.
- Check the charger type (DC fast charger vs. AC Level 2) and the rate schedule before plugging in.
- Watch for idle-time fees and end the session promptly when charging is complete.
- Save receipts for business or insurance purposes, if applicable.
By planning ahead and using the right apps, you can simplify paying for charging during road trips or daily commutes.
Summary
Paying to charge your EV is now typically straightforward and flexible. You can pay with cards, wallets, RFID access, or in-car/app interfaces, with pricing that generally falls into per-kWh or per-minute categories plus occasional extra fees. The best approach is to know which networks you’ll use, set up a payment method in the relevant apps, and be mindful of any idle fees or roaming charges. Always verify the session start cost and keep receipts for records.
