How do I start a charging session or use Tap to Charge at a ChargePoint station?

Last updated: 6/16/2026

There are three ways to start a charging session at a ChargePoint station:

Tap to Charge is available in North America. With the ChargePoint app installed, you can start a charging session on a ChargePoint station by holding your phone over the reader symbol on the station. Make sure you have the app installed and are signed into your account.
Start charging from the app. Choose the station and click the Start Charge button from the Station Details in the ChargePoint app.
Use your ChargePoint card. Just tap your activated ChargePoint card (make sure to activate it) on the card reader symbol on the station. Some roaming partner stations require the use of a ChargePoint card. For more information, refer to How to charge an EV with ChargePoint video.

Connect the charging cable to your vehicle and if necessary, to the charging station. Make sure that your EV is charging.

When charging is finished, just unplug the cable from your vehicle and, if necessary, the station (press the stop charging button on the station if you are fast charging). We will send you a receipt by email, and you can view your charging history in Charging Activity in the app.

Start a session with Tap to Charge

In North America, Tap to Charge is the easiest way to charge your EV at a ChargePoint station. There is no need to carry a card — all you need is your ChargePoint account and your phone!

To start charging, complete the following steps:

Scan the QR code on the station.
Get the ChargePoint app and sign up or log into your account.
If you create an account for the first time, set up Tap to Charge by adding ChargePoint to your Apple Wallet (for iPhone) or turning on NFC (for Android).
If you already have a ChargePoint account and have not set up Tap to Charge, select the Account tab at the bottom, select Manage Cards, then Set it up.
Add ChargePoint Pass as a card to your Wallet.

Tip: Setting up Tap to Charge is different for iPhones and Android phones, so follow the instructions provided in your app.
Once you have set up Tap to Charge, hold your phone up to the station’s reader to unlock the connector. Make sure you have turned on NFC and your screen for Android. For iPhone, if you are not using Face ID, double-check that your finger is on the home button to use Touch ID.
Once you hear the station beep, plug in your car and go about your day.
When you are notified that your EV has finished charging, unplug the cable from your EV and move your car away for others to charge.

Tip: Some EVs require you to unlock your doors to remove the charging plug and return it to the station.