How to Find EV Charging Stations: A Complete Guide

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, one of the most common questions new owners ask is: “Where can I find a charging station?” Unlike gas stations, which are everywhere, EV chargers require a bit more planning—especially if you’re traveling long distances or exploring unfamiliar areas. Thankfully, technology has made it easier than ever to locate reliable charging spots quickly and efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to find EV charging stations, from using specialized apps and your vehicle’s built-in navigation system to leveraging everyday tools like Google Maps. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just need a quick top-up around town, these tips will help you stay powered up and ready to go.

How to Find EV Charging Stations: A Complete Guide

Use EV Charging Apps

Why EV Charging Apps Are Essential

When you drive an electric vehicle, knowing where and when to charge is crucial. EV charging apps have become a must-have tool for EV owners, helping you locate nearby stations, check real-time availability, plan long trips, and even pay for charging sessions. Instead of guessing where the next charger might be, you can rely on these apps to guide you smoothly and efficiently.

Top EV Charging Apps to Download

There are several excellent EV charging apps available, each offering unique features:

PlugShare: One of the most comprehensive apps, PlugShare lists almost every public charging station, along with user reviews, photos, and tips. It allows drivers to filter by connector type, network, and availability.
ChargePoint: As one of the largest charging networks, ChargePoint’s app lets users find and reserve charging spots. It also allows you to monitor your charging session remotely and track usage over time.
Electrify America: This app is ideal for fast charging on road trips. It shows you available chargers, pricing, and estimated charging speeds, making it easy to plan high-speed charging stops.
EVgo: Focused on urban and high-traffic areas, EVgo’s app provides real-time charger status updates, easy account management, and rewards for loyal users.

Each app typically offers both iOS and Android versions and is free to download, though some features may require creating an account.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing an EV charging app, consider a few essential features:

Real-Time Availability: This feature shows whether a charger is currently in use or available, helping you avoid unnecessary detours.
Filters and Search Options: Good apps allow you to filter chargers based on plug type, speed, price, and network.
Payment Integration: Some apps let you pay directly through them, reducing the need for multiple network accounts.
Trip Planning Tools: For longer journeys, apps like PlugShare and A Better Route Planner can recommend where and when to stop to charge.

Tips for Using EV Charging Apps

Before heading out on a trip, it’s smart to download more than one app. Some stations appear on one app but not another, so having multiple sources increases your chances of finding a convenient charger. It’s also helpful to create user accounts ahead of time and save your payment information for a faster charging experience. Don’t forget to read user reviews on stations—often, fellow drivers will share important details like broken chargers or nearby amenities.

In-Car Navigation Systems

The Power of Built-In Navigation

Modern electric vehicles often come equipped with advanced navigation systems specifically designed for EV drivers. These built-in systems go beyond traditional GPS; they integrate your current battery level, estimated range, and nearby charging stations to give you a smart, dynamic route. Using your car’s navigation is one of the most seamless ways to locate chargers without needing to rely on your phone.

Advantages of In-Car Navigation

One major advantage of in-car navigation is real-time data integration. The system constantly monitors your battery level and automatically suggests charging stops along your route. This is particularly useful during long trips when you may not be familiar with available stations.

Another benefit is route optimization. Many EVs, such as those from Tesla, Ford, and Hyundai, will plan your route by including the most efficient charging stops, considering factors like charger speed, availability, and distance. This saves time and ensures you reach your destination without range anxiety.

How It Works in Popular EVs

Tesla: Tesla’s navigation system is often considered the gold standard. It not only shows Supercharger locations but also Destination Chargers at hotels and restaurants. Tesla vehicles precondition the battery as you approach a Supercharger to allow faster charging.
Ford Mustang Mach-E: Ford’s SYNC 4 system uses the FordPass Charging Network to locate thousands of chargers. It factors in real-time traffic and weather conditions to adjust your route if needed.
Hyundai and Kia EVs: These brands offer EV-specific navigation through their infotainment systems, suggesting nearby fast chargers based on the car’s remaining range.

Each system is tailored to work smoothly with its brand’s partnered charging networks, giving you the best experience when using proprietary or affiliated stations.

Limitations to Be Aware Of

While built-in navigation is extremely helpful, it does have some limitations. It may not always list third-party charging networks outside of its ecosystem, leading you to miss out on nearby stations from competitors. Updates to the system’s charger database may also not happen as frequently as third-party apps like PlugShare.

For this reason, many EV owners use a combination of their car’s navigation and external apps to get a complete view of all available charging options.

Final Thoughts on In-Car Navigation

In-car navigation systems are incredibly convenient for everyday use and road trips alike. They provide real-time, range-based guidance that helps you travel worry-free. However, staying flexible and supplementing your journey with mobile apps ensures you always have a backup plan whenever you need it.

Google Maps and Other General Apps

Using Google Maps to Find EV Chargers

Google Maps has become a powerful tool for EV drivers. In recent years, Google has added features that allow users to search specifically for electric vehicle charging stations. Simply typing “EV charging stations” into the search bar will reveal nearby options, complete with details like charger type, network provider, and user ratings.

One great feature is the ability to see real-time availability at some stations. This lets you know if a charger is currently free or occupied, helping you avoid unnecessary stops. Google Maps also offers filters so you can narrow your search by plug type or fast-charging options, ensuring you find a station that fits your needs.

Benefits of Using Google Maps

Google Maps offers a few advantages over specialized EV apps. First, it is widely used and familiar to almost everyone. You don’t need to learn a new system or create a new account. It also integrates well with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing you to get directions hands-free while driving.

Another key benefit is that Google Maps often includes additional information about the location. For instance, you can see photos of the charging area, find nearby restaurants or shops, and even check hours of operation. This makes it easy to plan not just your charging stop, but your entire break.

Other General Navigation Apps That Help

While Google Maps is the most popular, it’s not the only general navigation app that helps EV drivers:

Apple Maps: Apple has recently added EV routing for certain vehicles. It takes into account your current charge and suggests charging stops along your route automatically.
Waze: Though primarily focused on traffic and road hazards, Waze has begun integrating EV charger locations into its platform. It’s a good backup for real-time driving conditions, though it may not be as detailed as dedicated EV apps.
Here WeGo: This app offers offline maps and now includes EV charging points in many areas. It can be useful when traveling in areas with poor cellular service.

Each app has its strengths, so trying out a few can help you find the one that fits your style of driving and planning.

Tips for Using General Apps

When using general apps like Google Maps, it’s a good idea to double-check charger compatibility. These apps might not always display detailed information about connector types or charging speeds. If you’re unsure, you can cross-reference with a dedicated EV app before you arrive at a station.

Also, keep in mind that not all chargers listed may be updated for status or maintenance issues. Checking user reviews and recent updates can help you avoid arriving at a broken or offline station.

Enjoyed this guide of how to find EV charging stations? Then be sure to check out our other EV guides.