Short answer: A temporary hold placed on your bank card when you start a charging session, released and replaced with the actual charge amount afterward.
Explanation
When you use a bank card (EMV or contactless) to start charging, the charger places a pre-authorization hold on your card. This is a temporary block on a fixed amount, often 50 to 100 EUR, that guarantees the network can collect payment for the session. The hold is not a charge. It is released and replaced with the actual session cost once charging ends.
Pre-authorization works the same way as a hotel or petrol station hold. The amount appears as "pending" on your bank statement and typically clears within 1 to 5 business days, depending on your bank. During that time, the held amount reduces your available balance but is not deducted from your account.
This can be surprising if you are not expecting it. Seeing a 100 EUR pending charge for a 15 EUR charging session can cause worry. Rest assured, the hold will release and only the actual amount will be charged. If you prefer to avoid pre-authorization holds, use a charging app or RFID card instead of a bank card.
Where you'll see this
- On your charging receipt
- On the charger screen
Common confusion
Pre-authorization is not a double charge. It is a temporary hold that gets released and replaced with the real amount. If you see both on your bank statement, wait a few days for the hold to clear.
Example
Tapping your Visa card on a Fastned charger places a 100 EUR pre-authorization hold. After charging 35 kWh at 0.59 EUR/kWh, the hold is replaced with the actual charge of 20.65 EUR within 2-3 days.
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