Charging Etiquette: Best Practices at Public EV Stations

31 August 2025

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has revolutionized how we think about transportation. With more people switching to EVs, public charging stations are becoming a common sight in parking lots, shopping malls, and even along highways. If you've recently joined the EV community, you're probably familiar with the joy of zipping around town without ever needing to stop at a gas station. But what happens when your battery starts running low, and you pull into a public charging station?

Just like filling up at a gas pump, using a public EV charger comes with its own set of unspoken rules. Sure, there's no manual that tells you everything you need to know, but don't worry—I'm here to help break it down for you. Let’s dive into the best practices and etiquette for charging your EV at public stations, so you can be a courteous (and savvy) EV driver.

Why Charging Etiquette Matters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of public charging station etiquette, let’s talk about why it matters. The number of EVs on the road is growing, but charging stations are still playing catch-up. This means that chargers can quickly become crowded, especially during peak hours or in busy areas.

Imagine this: You've been driving all day, and your battery is on the verge of dying. You pull up to a public charger, only to find a car that's been plugged in for hours, long after it’s fully charged. Frustrating, right? Charging etiquette helps minimize these kinds of headaches, ensuring that everyone gets their fair shot at juicing up their ride.

By following a few simple guidelines, we can make charging stations more efficient and less stressful for everyone. It’s all about being considerate of your fellow EV drivers.

1. Don’t Hog the Charger

This is rule number one, folks. Once your EV is fully charged, unplug and move your car. Charging stations are not parking spots, and leaving your car plugged in after it’s charged is like leaving your car at the gas pump once your tank is full—it’s just not cool.

Most EVs will notify you when they’re fully charged, so there’s no excuse for leaving your car sitting idle at the station. If you know you’ll be away for a while, consider setting an alarm or checking your app to see when your car’s ready to go.

What If You're Not Finished Charging When Someone Else Needs the Spot?

If you're only halfway through your charging session and someone pulls up, it's not a race to unplug. But in busy areas, be mindful of how long you're staying. Charging to 80% is often faster and more efficient than waiting for that last 20%—so if you're able to unplug once you've hit that sweet spot, go for it. Consider it a small act of EV kindness.

2. Don’t Park in Charging Spots If You Don’t Need to Charge

This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it happens. Parking in a charging spot when you don’t need to plug in is a big no-no. It’s the EV equivalent of parking in front of a gas pump just because the spot is convenient.

Even if the charging station is empty, resist the temptation to park there unless you’re actually going to charge your vehicle. You never know when someone with a nearly-dead battery might show up, and they’re going to need that spot a lot more than you do.

3. Use Charging Time Wisely

Charging your EV isn’t as quick as filling up a gas tank, but it doesn’t mean you should leave your car unattended for hours. Use the time efficiently. If you’re at a fast charger, plan to stay nearby. Most fast chargers can take your battery from 20% to 80% in about 30-40 minutes, so this is a great time to grab a coffee, check your emails, or stretch your legs.

For slower chargers, you might have more leeway to run errands, but don’t stray too far. Keep an eye on your charging status through your car’s app, and make sure you’re back before your car is fully charged (or at least not long after). The golden rule? Be considerate of the next person who might be waiting for that charger.

4. Be Aware of Charging Speed

Not all chargers are created equal. Some public stations offer Level 2 chargers, which are slower and better suited for long-term charging, while others offer super-fast DC fast chargers. If you only need a quick top-off, opt for the fast charger. But if you’re planning to charge for a couple of hours while you catch a movie or grab dinner, stick to the slower chargers, leaving the fast ones for people who need to get on the road quickly.

Know Your EV’s Charging Limits

It’s also worth noting that your EV might not be able to take full advantage of every charger. Some cars can’t charge faster than a certain rate, even when plugged into a fast charger. So before you plug into a high-speed charger, make sure your car can handle it. Otherwise, you may be hogging a fast charger for no reason.

5. Mind the Charging Cables

Believe it or not, tripping hazards are a real thing at EV stations. When you’re plugging in your car, make sure the charging cable is neatly positioned to avoid creating a tangled mess. If the cable needs to stretch a bit to reach your car, try to place it in a way that minimizes the chance of someone else tripping over it.

Also, once you're done charging, be sure to coil the cable back properly. Leaving it scattered on the ground isn’t just inconsiderate—it’s a safety hazard. It’s like leaving a garden hose out in the middle of the driveway; someone’s bound to trip over it eventually.

6. Be Respectful of Charging Networks

Some charging stations are part of specific networks like Tesla Superchargers, ChargePoint, or EVgo. If you’re using a network-specific charger, make sure you have the appropriate membership or payment method ready.

And here’s the thing: if you're driving a non-Tesla EV, don’t park in a Tesla Supercharger spot. Those chargers aren’t compatible with all EVs, and taking up space at a station where you can’t even charge is simply frustrating for everyone involved. Know your network, and stick to the chargers that work for your vehicle.

7. Pay Attention to Station Rules

Different charging stations may have different rules. Some may have time limits, while others might charge a fee for staying plugged in after your car is fully charged. Always read the signs and follow the station’s specific guidelines.

For example, some fast chargers may impose idle fees, meaning you’ll be charged extra if your car stays plugged in after it’s fully charged. This is a great way to encourage people to move their cars, but it’s also a reminder to pay attention to what’s happening with your vehicle.

8. Be Considerate During Peak Hours

If you’re charging during a busy time of day—like during work rush hours or on a holiday weekend—keep in mind that others may be waiting for a charge. This is where it pays to keep your charging session as short as possible.

If you don’t really need a full charge, consider stopping at 80% and freeing up the station for someone else. This small gesture can make a big difference when chargers are in high demand.

9. Avoid Unplugging Other Cars Without Permission

This might seem like common sense, but it’s worth mentioning: never unplug another vehicle without permission. Some EVs will unlock the charging port once they're fully charged, but that doesn’t mean you have the green light to yank the cord out.

If you’re in a pinch and need to charge, try to locate the owner of the car first. Many charging apps allow you to message other users, which is a great way to politely ask if they’re done charging. But unless you’ve got the go-ahead, leave the charging cord alone.

10. Pay It Forward

Finally, a little kindness goes a long way. If you see someone struggling to figure out how to use the charger, offer to help them out. If you're finished charging and someone else is waiting, let them know you're about to leave. Being courteous and helpful creates a positive community around EVs, and that benefits everyone.

Charging station etiquette is all about being thoughtful and respectful. With more people making the switch to electric vehicles, it's important that we work together to keep charging stations running smoothly. So next time you pull up to a public charger, keep these best practices in mind and help make the experience as pleasant as possible for everyone.