Published on November 11, 2025 (Updated on November 11, 2025)

Charging your electric vehice (EV) for free is absolutely possible! More and more businesses, cities, and retailers are installing charging stations to support electric mobility, and some of them offer charging at no cost.

Whether you’re in Canada or the United States, several options make it easy to recharge your EV for free. Let’s explore where and how to find complimentary EV charging stations with minimal effort.

 

Where to find free charging stations near you

Today, most major cities offer free public charging stations. You’ll often find them in convenient locations such as:

  • Shopping malls and supermarkets
  • Public parking lots
  • Libraries, hotels, and municipal buildings
  • Certain car dealerships

These stations are often part of municipal or private charging networks that encourage electric mobility. With just a few clicks on an interactive map in the ChargeHub app, you can locate a station near your destination and recharge your vehicle while running errands or enjoying your day.

Use the ChargeHub app to find free EV charging stations

The ChargeHub app is one of the best tools for finding free charging stations in Canada and the U.S. Its interactive map displays real-time information about public chargers near you.

Its biggest advantage? The built-in “Free Stations” filter. This feature shows only free charging points and lets you refine your search by connector type, power level (Level 2 or DC fast charging), and network (FLO, Circuit Électrique, Tesla, and more).

In just seconds, you can see precisely where to charge, whether at a public lot, shopping centre, or along your route. The app becomes your go-to tool for planning trips and reducing your charging costs.

Free charging station Free charging station image 2 Vue de la borne de recharge gratuite

Where to charge your electric car for free

At Stores and Shopping Centres

Many businesses are now installing free charging stations to offer an extra service to their customers. Shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels see this as an effective way to attract electric vehicle drivers and extend their visits.

At Hotels and Restaurants

More hotels now provide complimentary Level 2 charging for guests, available directly in their parking lots. It’s a convenient solution for travellers who want to recharge overnight or while stopping for a meal.

In Public and Municipal Parking Lots

Across Canada and the United States, many municipalities promote electric mobility by installing free chargers in public parking areas, parks, arenas, and civic buildings. These local initiatives make public charging more accessible to EV drivers.

At Car Dealerships

If you own an EV, your dealership might be a great place to charge. Brands like Tesla, Nissan, Chevrolet, and Hyundai often provide free charging stations in their dealership lots for customers; some even include fast chargers, perfect for topping up your range during a service visit.

EV driver charging at a public station

Take advantage of free charging on the road

On long-distance trips, free stations can be a great complement to paid fast chargers. You can recharge your car while dining, sightseeing, or staying overnight at a hotel.

With the ChargeHub app, you can plan your route to include free stations along the way and travel with confidence.

The changing landscape of free charging

While many free charging options still exist, their numbers are slowly decreasing. Maintenance and electricity costs are prompting some businesses and municipalities to add usage fees.

However, several provincial and local programs continue to offer partial or temporary free charging to encourage EV adoption.

By checking charging maps and apps regularly, you can stay informed about network updates, new installations, and which locations still offer free access.

The bottom line on free EV charging

Charging your electric vehicle for free is an excellent way to lower travel costs without sacrificing convenience. Between public stations, retail locations, municipal lots, and dealerships, there are plenty of opportunities to plug in without paying a cent.

Before your next trip, use the ChargeHub app to easily locate free stations and make the most of your electric driving experience.

The bottom line on free EV charging

Charging your electric vehicle for free is an excellent way to lower travel costs without sacrificing convenience. Between public stations, retail locations, municipal lots, and dealerships, there are plenty of opportunities to plug in without paying a cent.

Before your next trip, use the ChargeHub app to easily locate free stations and make the most of your electric driving experience.

FAQ about free EV charging stations

Where can I find a free charging station for my electric car?

You can find free EV charging stations in many places: public parking lots, shopping centres, hotels, dealerships, and municipal buildings.
The ChargeHub app helps you easily locate free stations near you using its built-in filter on the interactive map.

Are all public charging stations free?

No. Most public charging stations require payment, but some are offered for free by businesses, municipalities, or car dealerships.
That’s why it’s helpful to use an app like ChargeHub to filter only free stations and plan your charges more efficiently.

How long does it take to charge an electric car for free?

It depends on the type of charger. A Level 2 station typically charges an EV in about 6–8 hours, while a DC fast charger (Level 3) can restore up to 80% of range in 20–40 minutes.

Can I leave my car plugged in overnight at a free charging station?

Yes, you can at some Level 2 stations located in long-term parking areas, but it’s best to move your car once charging is complete.
This frees up the spot for other EV drivers who also need to charge.

Is the ChargeHub app free to use?

Yes, the ChargeHub app is completely free.
You can use it at no cost to find available charging stations in real time , filter for free chargers, and plan your EV trips across Canada and the United States.
Some partner networks may charge for station use, but access to ChargeHub’s map and search tools remains 100% free.