EV Public Charging Stations

Last updated 05/24/2023

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Key Points

Public charging stations are found along major highways and in the parking lots of offices, libraries, and shopping centers.
Several charging networks are available; most have a compatible mobile app.
Federal funding will increase the availability of public charging stations in rural areas.
Tesla Superchargers will be available for all EVs in 7,500 locations by the end of 2024.

Frequently asked questions

The amount of time it takes to charge an EV from empty depends on the type of charger. Level 2 chargers take about four to 10 hours to fully charge a BEV. Level 3 chargers, like the Tesla Supercharger, can charge an EV in less than an hour.
Public charging stations are located throughout the U.S. The U.S. Department of Energy, charge networks, and GPS apps offer helpful maps to locate charging stations near you.
Yes. The cost of using a public charging station varies by location and network. Some networks have subscription programs with monthly fees, and others charge per use. Check the stations in your area for local prices.
All EVs in the U.S. can use Level 1 and 2 chargers. Only certain EVs, like Teslas, can use Level 3 chargers. If you are a Tesla driver but want to use a non-Tesla charging station, you may need to use the J1772 adapter included with your Tesla. If you are a non-Tesla driver looking to use a Tesla Destination charger, you may need a Tesla to J1772 adapter until the Magic Dock is available. Some Tesla Superchargers are available for use without an adapter for non-Teslas. Check what you will need for each charging station before taking a drive.
On average, EVs can travel about 250–350 miles on a full charge. The size of the car’s battery, driving behavior, and other factors impact the vehicle’s mileage range. For example, the 2022 Tesla Model S can travel a long range of 405 miles, while the 2022 Mazda MX-30 can travel a range of 100 miles.