First Time Using a Public Charger
You have never charged at a public station before
Your first time at a public EV charger can be confusing. Different plugs, different apps, different payment methods. Here is a straightforward walkthrough of what to expect and what to do.
Your situation
You just got an EV (or are renting one) and you need to charge at a public station for the first time. You are not sure which plug to use, how to pay, or how to start.
What to try first
- 1
Know your connector type before you arrive
Most EVs in Europe use CCS2 for fast charging and Type 2 for slow charging. In North America, Tesla uses NACS and most others use CCS1. Check your car's manual or charge port for the connector type.
- 2
Download 2-3 charging apps in advance
Public chargers are operated by different networks. No single app works everywhere. Install the apps for the major networks in your area before you need them. Create accounts and add a payment method while you have wifi.
- 3
At the charger: authenticate, then plug in
Most chargers follow this sequence: open the app or tap your RFID card, select the connector, then plug in. Some chargers are plug-and-charge (just plug in and it starts). Read the instructions on the charger screen if you are unsure.
More scenarios in the app
The EVcourse app walks you through more specific scenarios for this problem with visual step-by-step guides. Free for iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which plug to use at an EV charger?
Check your car's charge port. In Europe, CCS2 is the standard fast charging connector (large plug with two round pins on top and two flat pins below). Type 2 is for slower AC charging (round plug with seven pins). The connector shapes are different so you physically cannot use the wrong one.
Do I need an app to charge my EV at a public station?
For most public chargers, yes. You will need the charging network's app or an RFID card to authenticate and pay. Some newer chargers accept contactless bank cards. Download the main charging apps in your area before your first trip to a public charger.
Related guides
Stuck at the charger? Open the app.
Step-by-step help for real charging problems. Free on iOS and Android.
Free to download · Available on iOS and Android