How To Find EV Charging Stations in 2025: The 3 Best Apps
Learn how to find the best charging stations nearby you with free apps.
The transition to electric vehicles is accelerating, making the availability and accessibility of EV charging stations more crucial than ever. Charging stations have nearly doubled from 2019 to 2023.
With over 160,000 public charging stations currently available and a targeted expansion to 500,000 through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, finding a reliable charging station has become simpler and more efficient.
Whether you're a daily commuter or planning a long road trip, our nonprofit’s comprehensive guide will help you navigate the landscape of public EV charging stations in 2025.
Haven’t Made The Switch to An EV Yet?
EVs are not only cleaner than their gas-powered counterparts but also offer significant cost savings on fuel and maintenance. High-mileage drivers can save on average $4,318 annually on fuel by switching to an EV.
Try our nonprofit's EV Cost-Savings Calculator to see how affordable driving electric can be for you!
The 3 Best Mobile Apps to Find EV Charging Stations
When it comes to finding a reliable EV charger, having the right app can make all the difference. Here are the top three mobile applications recommended by our nonprofit to help you locate charging stations effortlessly.
1. PlugShare
PlugShare is a must-have app for any EV owner, offering an extensive database of over 140,000 charging stations worldwide. Its user-friendly interface allows you to filter stations by free charging, charger type, availability, and more.
- Key Features:
- Real-Time Updates: With over 300,000 monthly global users, PlugShare ensures that station information is always up-to-date.
- Community Reviews: Similar to Waze, users can leave reviews, photos, and tips about each charging station.
- Compatibility Filters: Easily find chargers that are compatible with your specific EV model.
Use PlugShare to start finding the best charging stations near you today!
2. ChargePoint
ChargePoint offers a comprehensive listing of EV charging stations, making it easy to find a charger along your route or near your destination.
- Key Features:
- Vast Network: Access one of the largest networks of EV chargers in the world.
- Route Planning: Compare routes with PlugShare to find the most efficient charging options.
- Detailed Information: Get insights into charger types, availability, and pricing.
Use ChargePoint to enhance your EV charging experience.
3. Electrify America
For those who prioritize fast charging, Electrify America is the go-to app, offering the second-largest network of Level 3 fast chargers in the U.S.
- Key Features:
- Fast Charging Maps: Easily locate Level 3 chargers for quick top-ups.
- Expansion Plans: Stay ahead with plans to introduce luxury charging centers soon.
- User-Friendly Interface: Navigate with ease and find chargers that fit your schedule.
Use Electrify America to take advantage of their extensive fast-charging network.
How to Use PlugShare
PlugShare is not just an app; it's a comprehensive tool that can significantly enhance your EV charging experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the most out of PlugShare.
1. Start with Their Electric Car Charging Stations Map
- Explore the Map: Access a detailed map showing all available charging stations, complete with availability, photos, and user reviews.
- Visual Insights: Easily identify station locations and types, making it simpler to choose the best option for your needs.
2. Create Your Filter
- Customize Your Search: Filter charging stations based on your vehicle type, charger speed, pricing, and other preferences.
- Find Free Chargers: Specifically filter for free or $0 charging options to save on costs.
- Hide Coming Soon: You can also hide “coming soon”
3. Plan and Pay for Your Charging Trip
- Organize Your Route: Use PlugShare to map out your charging stops along your journey.
- In-App Payments: Some charging stations allow you to pay directly through the app, streamlining the process.
- Efficiency Tips: Charge up to 80% quickly to save time and extend your trip without unnecessary delays.
Download the Home Charging Guide
Charging an EV at home costs around $0.17 per kWh on average, while public charging stations charge on average about $0.29 per kWh - about 70% more than home charging.
Maximize your EV charging efficiency at home with our free guide!
This free resource provides valuable information on:
- Choosing the Right Home Charger: Understand the different types of home chargers and select the one that best fits your needs.
- Installation Tips: Learn about installation requirements and best practices to ensure safe and efficient home charging.
- Cost-Saving Strategies: Discover ways to reduce your home charging costs and optimize your energy usage.
Download the Ultimate EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet by entering your email below and receive monthly news and inspiration from our award-winning nonprofit.
Alternative Ways to Find EV Charging Stations
Beyond the top apps, there are several other tools and methods to locate EV charging stations:
Alternative Fueling Stations Tool
DOE’s Alternative Fueling Stations Map: Run by the U.S. Department of Energy, this tool provides a comprehensive map of various fueling stations, including EV chargers.
Advantages: Reliable data directly from a government source, useful for broader research.
Google Maps and Waze
Google Maps: Use keywords like "EV charging stations" to find nearby chargers (learn how).
Waze: Similar to Google Maps, search for "EV charging stations" to locate nearby options (guide here).
Note: While convenient, the listings may be more limited compared to specialized EV charging apps.
EVgo
EVgo App: As the owner of the third-largest fast-charging network, EVgo allows users to reserve a charging spot, ensuring availability when you arrive.
ChargeHub
ChargeHub: This app provides availability information for a vast number of chargers across the U.S. Its Passport functionality enables users to activate and pay for thousands of chargers directly within the app.
How To Find Tesla Charging Options
Tesla owners have exclusive access to Supercharger stations, which offer high-speed charging tailored to Tesla vehicles.
- Onboard Navigation: Use your Tesla’s built-in navigation system to locate Tesla Supercharger stations along your route.
- Automatic Billing: Tesla Superchargers recognize your vehicle and bill you automatically, ensuring a seamless charging experience.
- Avoid Operational Issues: Using apps alongside your Tesla's navigation can help you avoid non-operational chargers or stations with long wait times.
Finding Free Public Charging
Did you know that many public EV chargers are completely free to use? From your local shopping mall to your workplace or even right around the corner from home, free charging spots might be closer than you think. Kick off your search with PlugShare’s map of free EV stations.
If you’ve recently purchased an EV, you might already have access to free fast charging for up to three years. Want to see if your vehicle qualifies? Check out this comprehensive list.
Looking for even more ways to fuel up without spending a dime? Dive into our handy guide to finding free electric car charging stations near you and start planning your next charge today!
The Hidden Costs of Gas Vehicles
Switching gas cars to EVs offers hidden health benefits by reducing harmful emissions. This means fewer risks of asthma, heart and lung diseases, and other vehicle-emissions-related health problems—especially for families living near busy roads.
Imagine cleaner air for your children to breathe, a quieter neighborhood, and fewer trips to the mechanic. EVs aren’t just about saving money—they’re about creating a better future.
Help Build a Healthier Tomorrow
Join thousands of others making the switch to cleaner transportation! Sign up for our nonprofit’s Beyond Gasoline newsletter to stay up to date on the growing movement.
Shopping while Charging
Americans love to shop—and now they can charge their cars while doing it! Retailers like Walmart and Costco are betting on a strong future for public EV charging stations at their stores.
Not only do these stations generate revenue from electricity sales, but they also boost customer spending. In fact, a new study shows a 4 percent jump in monthly visits for retailers located near chargers, along with a 5 percent increase in sales. Even more compelling, another recent study found that public charging stations can attract “higher-income, exploratory visitors and local residents,” while in low-income areas, they “enhance businesses.”
Public chargers are meeting the needs of truckers, ride-hailing drivers, and long-distance travelers. They're also essential for the 5% of EV owners who can’t charge at home, including those living in apartments or relying on street parking.
With these chargers creating a win-win for businesses and drivers alike, it’s no wonder they’re reshaping how and where we fuel up.
Should You Use a Level 2 or Level 3 Charger (DC Fast Charger)?
Level 2 Chargers: Provide about 25 miles of range per hour, ideal for longer stops like shopping or dining.
Level 3 Chargers (DC Fast Chargers): Can charge your EV up to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, perfect for quick top-ups during travel.
EV Connector Types
In the U.S. and Canada, most home charging stations use either the J1772 connector or Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS).
- The J1772 plug (also called the "J plug" or "Type 1 connector") is used by brands like Audi, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Toyota.
- Tesla vehicles use the NACS but provide adapters to work with J1772 plugs.
Public EV Charging Tips
Maximizing your EV charging experience involves understanding your options and planning effectively. Here are some essential tips:
1. Choose the Right Charger Type
- Level 2 Chargers: Provide approximately 25 miles of range per hour. Ideal for longer stops such as shopping or dining.
- Level 3 Chargers (DC Fast Chargers): Can charge your EV up to 80% in about 30 minutes. Best for quick top-ups during travel.
2. Plan Your Charging Stops
- Combine Charging with Activities: Plan your charging stops alongside errands or meals to make the most of your time.
- Understand Charging Times: Charging slows significantly after reaching 80%, so aim to charge up to this point for maximum efficiency (read more).
3. Use Charging Apps Effectively
- Filter and Sort: Utilize app filters to find the most suitable charging stations based on your current location, EV type, and charging speed.
- Using Apps for Compatibility: Different EVs have different plugs and charging capabilities. Ensure that the charging station you choose is compatible with your vehicle. Most apps, including PlugShare, allow you to add your vehicle to find the right chargers.
- Real-Time Updates: Stay informed about charger availability and operational status through real-time updates and community reviews.
Conclusion
Finding and utilizing EV charging stations has never been easier, thanks to advanced apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America. By leveraging these tools and implementing strategic charging tips, you can enjoy a seamless and sustainable driving experience.
We hope this guide helps you find EV stations where you need them. Our mission is to reduce gasoline use and promote cleaner, healthier transportation options for everyone.
Public EV Charging FAQ
1. What are the best mobile apps to find EV charging stations in 2025?
The top three mobile apps are PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America. These apps help locate EV charging stations efficiently and plan your trips seamlessly.
2. How does PlugShare help in finding EV charging stations?
PlugShare offers an extensive database of over 140,000 charging stations, real-time updates, and community reviews. Its compatibility filters help you find chargers specific to your EV model.
3. What features does ChargePoint provide for EV owners?
ChargePoint provides access to one of the largest EV charging networks, offering detailed information about charger types, availability, and pricing. You can also plan routes efficiently by comparing options with other apps like PlugShare.
4. Why should I use Electrify America for fast charging?
Electrify America offers the second-largest network of Level 3 fast chargers in the U.S., with user-friendly tools to locate chargers and expansion plans for luxury charging centers.
5. How can I find free EV charging stations?
Use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and ChargeHub to filter results for free charging. Some EVs also come with free charging incentives—check if your vehicle qualifies here.
6. What is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers?
- Level 2 Chargers: Provide about 25 miles of range per hour, suitable for longer stops like shopping or dining.
- Level 3 Chargers (DC Fast Chargers): Charge your EV up to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, ideal for quick top-ups on road trips. Learn more about charger types here.
7. How can I use Tesla Supercharger stations?
Tesla Superchargers provide high-speed charging specifically designed for Tesla vehicles. Use your Tesla’s onboard navigation to locate Superchargers or apps like PlugShare to avoid operational issues or long wait times. Learn more about Tesla charging here.
8. Are there alternative tools to find EV charging stations?
Yes, alternatives include:
- Alternative Fueling Stations Map by the U.S. Department of Energy
- Google Maps and Waze for location searches
- ChargeHub for availability and payment integration
- EVgo for reservations and fast charging access
9. How long does it take to charge an EV?
Charging times depend on the charger type and your EV model. It is more time-efficient to charge up to 80%, as charging slows beyond this point. For detailed guidance, visit this charging time guide.
10. Where can I get help choosing a home EV charger?
Download our Ultimate EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet for insights on choosing the right home charger, installation tips, and cost-saving strategies.
11. What are some strategic tips for public EV charging?
- Plan Stops: Combine charging with errands or meals.
- Use Filters: Find the most suitable chargers by filtering based on your EV model and preferred speed.
- Maximize Efficiency: Stop charging at 80% for faster trips.
12. How can I find discounted EV charging options?
- Electrify America Pass+ offers a discounted subscription.
- EVgo has monthly plans for savings.
13. Why should I consider switching to an EV?
Switching to an EV is more eco-friendly and can save you money on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. Use our nonprofit’s EV Savings Calculator to estimate your savings and join the movement for sustainable transportation.