If you do not have an EVgo account, you can start a charging session at the station itself with your credit card. There are currently three options to pay when using a credit card:
- Start a session with a credit card reader directly on the charging unit
- Start a session at a credit card kiosk at the location
- Contact the EVgo Charging Crew
When you arrive at the charging location, you'll notice if card readers are located at the charging unit or if there is a kiosk for all chargers at the location. Based on what you see, select the method above to jump to more details.
Important notes:
- Receipts are not available for transactions that take place without an EVgo account.
We highly recommend enrolling in an account with EVgo for access to your full transaction history and any receipts. Even with our free Pay As You Go plan, you'll benefit from reduced charging rates, access to EVgo gated locations, the ability to reserve a charger, and more! Learn more about enrolling in EVgo
- If you are enrolled in an EVgo plan and would like to use your plan benefits, you should not use the credit card reader!
If you are unable to start a charge using your EVgo app or your RFID Program Card, call the EVgo Charging Crew for support at 877-494-3833! The team can assist with resolving the issue or starting your charge remotely while tying it to your EVgo account.
- Some stations do not accept payment outside of the EVgo app or RFID card, and you will need to contact us for further assistance starting your charge.
More quick links:
- Jump to quick tips from the EVgo Charging Crew
- Explore other ways to start a charge:
- EVgo Autocharge+
- Start a charge: EVgo app (#1 recommended)
- Start a charge: RFID Program Card
- Start a charge: EVgo on a web browser (least recommended)
Start a charging session with your credit card at the charging unit
- Select the appropriate connector for your vehicle
-
Insert the connector into your EV’s charge port
- Be sure to listen for the click!
- Select the Credit Card payment option on the charger screen
-
Swipe, tap, or insert your credit card at the credit card reader
- Be sure to use the available credit card reader! The 'Tap Card Here' space is intended for EVgo RFID program cards only.
- Enter any information requested on the charger screen
When the charging session has successfully begun, the power will begin to flow to your vehicle and you will see the charging session progress on the charger screen.

Start a charging session at a credit card kiosk
- Select the appropriate connector for your vehicle
-
Insert the connector into your EV’s charge port
- Be sure to listen for the click!
- Select the Credit Card payment option on the charger screen
-
Swipe, tap, or insert your credit card at the credit card kiosk
- You will likely find a standalone kiosk for all stations at the location. The 'Tap Card Here' space on the charger itself is intended for EVgo RFID program cards only.
- Select the charger you're using on the credit card kiosk
- Select the appropriate connector on the credit card kiosk
When the charging session has successfully begun, the power will begin to flow to your vehicle and you will see the charging session progress on the charger screen.
Common charging issues:
When someone has difficulty starting a charge, we see a variety of causes. If the reason is specific to using a credit card reader:
- Be sure you are using the credit card reader; the 'Tap Card Here' space is for EVgo RFID Program Cards.
- Use a physical credit card. At this time, we are limited in our ability to accept virtual payments like ApplePay or Google Pay.
- Pre-authorization holds can be up to $100 depending on the charger each time you swipe the credit card. Debit or prepaid cards may be declined if the hold exceeds your balance.
- If it's your first time using an EV public charger, your bank may flag the transaction and place a hold on your card. This also occurs if you attempt to make a payment with the same card multiple times.
Check out our full guide to Start a charging session with EVgo