Electric Car Charging Etiquette Guide
Electric Car Charging Etiquette Guide
Posted on February 14, 2025
With electric vehicles becoming increasingly common, proper charging etiquette is crucial to ensure all EV drivers have a smooth experience. Whether you're new to EVs or a seasoned driver, these five tips can help make public charging stations more efficient and accessible for everyone.
- Always Plug In When Using a Charging Spot
If you park in an EV charging spot, make sure you’re actively charging. These spaces are specifically designated for charging vehicles, not for general parking—even for EVs. Taking up a spot without plugging in is as inconsiderate as gas-powered cars ("ICEing") blocking EV chargers. With the growing number of EVs on the road, more people depend on public chargers for their daily travels. If your car doesn’t need charging, park elsewhere to leave the charger available for someone who does. - Move Your Car After Charging Is Complete
Once your EV has finished charging, it’s important to vacate the spot to make room for other drivers. Staying parked at a charger unnecessarily creates delays, especially at busy stations where drivers often plan trips around charging availability. Many DC fast chargers, like Tesla Superchargers, impose idle fees if you remain plugged in after your session ends—up to $1.00 per minute in some cases. If you're charging overnight at a hotel, try to unplug and relocate your car once charging is complete, even if it’s late, to show consideration for others. - Charge Efficiently in the Optimal Range
Most EVs charge faster when their battery level is low and slow down significantly as they approach full capacity. To maximize efficiency and reduce wait times for others, focus on charging between 10-80% unless you absolutely need a full charge. For road trips, plan shorter charging stops and charge just enough to reach the next station with a safe buffer. While some drivers may want to take advantage of free charging offers to top off, it’s courteous to be mindful of others waiting in line and avoid hogging the charger. - Be Considerate with Supercharger Placement
Tesla’s Superchargers were originally designed with Tesla vehicles in mind, which means the cables are short and positioned to align with Tesla charge port locations. Non-Tesla EVs with different port placements may need to occupy spots more creatively, but it’s important to avoid blocking multiple stalls whenever possible. If using a non-Tesla EV at a Tesla Supercharger, try to park in an end spot or position your car thoughtfully to minimize disruption. Future Superchargers with longer cables will address these challenges, but for now, mindful parking is key. - Queue Responsibly at Busy Stations
When arriving at a full charging station, park in a visible spot near the chargers and wait your turn. Avoid parking in a way that blocks traffic or confuses other drivers about who is next in line. Once you get on a charger, avoid staying longer than necessary—especially if the next station on your route is less busy. By charging only what you need to continue your trip, you help keep the line moving and ensure everyone can get back on the road efficiently.
By following these tips, EV drivers can foster a more courteous and efficient charging experience for everyone. Charging etiquette is essential as the EV community continues to grow, so let’s all do our part to keep public chargers accessible and running smoothly.