ChargePoint Charging Guide

First Time Charging with ChargePoint?

Here is what you need to know before your first session.

• Download the ChargePoint app or have a contactless bank card ready. Payment options include app, RFID.
• Check which connector your car uses. ChargePoint stations have CCS2 connectors.
• Plug in first, then authorize. Most ChargePoint chargers require you to connect the cable before starting the session.
• If the screen shows a message you do not understand, the EVcourse app can read it for you. It works with any charger screen, any language.

Understanding ChargePoint Pricing

Charging network pricing is more complex than it looks. The per-kWh rate shown in the app or on the charger is not always the full cost. Here is what to watch for.

Extra Charges to Watch For

The per-kWh price is not always the full picture. These additional fees can add up, especially on short sessions or when you forget to unplug.

• → Idle fees. Many DC fast chargers charge per minute once your battery is full but the car is still plugged in. This can be €0.10-0.50 per minute. Set a reminder to move your car when charging is done.
• → Session start fees. Some networks charge a flat fee (€0.50-2.00) just to start a session, on top of the per-kWh rate. This hits harder on short top-up sessions.
• → Per-minute billing. Some chargers bill per minute instead of per kWh. If your car charges slowly (cold battery, high state of charge, or an older model), per-minute billing is much more expensive. Check the billing model before you plug in.
• → Time-of-day pricing. Some networks charge more during peak hours (daytime) and less at night. If you have flexibility, charging off-peak can save money. For example, some networks have an idle fee only during business hours.

Coverage

ChargePoint operates in the following countries. Tap a country for local pricing details. You can also find ChargePoint charger locations on PlugShare or Open Charge Map.

How to Pay at ChargePoint

ChargePoint supports the following payment methods. Availability may vary by location.

• ChargePoint app. Download the app, create an account, and add a payment method. Start and stop charging sessions from your phone.
• RFID card. Tap a registered RFID card on the charger to start. These need to be ordered in advance from ChargePoint or a roaming partner. Most drivers use the app instead.

Tips for Charging at ChargePoint

• ChargePoint pricing in Europe is set by the station host, not by ChargePoint. Prices can vary significantly between locations, even nearby ones.
• The ChargePoint app works across North America and Europe. If you already have an account from the US or Canada, it works in Europe too.
• Payment is through the app or RFID card. Some locations also support third-party RFID cards through roaming agreements.
• ChargePoint stations range from slow AC workplace chargers to 350 kW highway fast chargers. Always check the power level before planning a stop.
• If you are at a ChargePoint location with multiple units and one is not working, try another. Availability issues are usually unit-specific, not site-wide.
• ChargePoint's waitlist feature lets you queue for a charger through the app at some locations. This avoids idling in the parking lot waiting for a spot.

Common Issues with ChargePoint

• Variable pricing by host means you can pay very different rates at two ChargePoint stations in the same city. Always check before starting.
• Some European ChargePoint stations are older units with slower speeds and less reliable hardware.
• RFID card compatibility through roaming can be inconsistent. The ChargePoint app is the most reliable payment method.
• Station hosts control uptime and maintenance. A poorly maintained host location reflects on ChargePoint branding even though ChargePoint may not manage the site.

Charger Not Working?

If a ChargePoint charger will not start, charges too slowly, or gives an error, check our ChargePoint troubleshooting guide for network-specific fixes. Or see the general troubleshooting guide for step-by-step help with any charger.

You can also report the issue through the ChargePoint app. Reporting broken chargers helps the network fix them faster and helps other drivers avoid the same problem.