Find EV Charging Stations Faster with Waze

Find EV Charging Stations Faster with Waze

If you drive an EV, Waze’s built-in EV charging station search feature can save you serious time, stress, and battery anxiety. Learn exactly how to use it, plus why it’s a smart move for every EV owner.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 6, 2025

Ever pulled into a random parking lot only to discover the nearest charging station was miles away and you’re running on 3%? 

You’re not alone. 

EV drivers have long wrestled with the “where-do-I-charge” conundrum. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Find EV Charging Stations Faster with Waze.

Waze, the community-powered navigation app, can be a lifesaver when you need to recharge. 

It recently improved how you can search for EV charging stations directly in the app, cutting down on range anxiety and wasted detours.

What Is This Feature and Why Does It Matter?

Waze now integrates real-time EV charging station data into its search results. You can locate a nearby charger by typing keywords like EV charging station, EV charger, or EV charging point. You’ll see supported stations on your route, along with community-reported updates about availability, amenities, and even pricing.

This goes beyond static map points: because Waze thrives on user reports, you’re tapping into a living, breathing knowledge base with current data — especially helpful when other apps might lag behind or be missing new stations.

In plain terms? Fewer frustrating surprises, less downtime, and less chance of running your EV’s battery to the bone.

What You’ll Gain

• Eliminate range anxiety
• Save time on charging stops
• Tap real-time, community-powered updates

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Turn on EV features for your car

1. You only need to do this once.
2. Open Waze.
3. Tap the menu icon (three lines).
4. Tap Settings.
5. Tap Vehicle details.
6. Tap Electric vehicles.
7. Turn on "Turn on EV features".
8. Add Plugs and Networks to only show charging stations that work with your car:

• Plugs: Tap Plugs and select your plug type. You can select more than one.
• Networks: Tap Networks and select your preferred network. You can select more than one.

fig. 1 - Turn on Waze EV Features

iOS / Android:

1. Open the Waze app on your phone. iOS / Android.
2. Tap the search bar at the top.
3. Type “EV charging station,” “EV charger,” or “EV charging point.”
4. Review the list of charging stations, along with user ratings, updates, and photos.
5. Select a station to navigate directly to it.

Note: If you just turned on EV features, it might take a few hours for EV charging to appear. If you don't see it, try to restart Waze.

fig. 2 - Waze EV Charger Search Example

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Real-time user reports help you avoid broken or blocked chargers
• Seamlessly integrated with your driving route
• Community data means you get local tips, not just static listings

Cons

• Coverage can vary if fewer Waze users report on EV stations in your region
• Still relies on users for the most up-to-date info, which could be spotty in remote areas
• Think of it like a neighborhood grapevine: powerful when active, less so when quiet.

Feature Access

• Available to all Waze users with an EV or plug-in hybrid, no premium account needed.
• Works globally, although data quality may vary by region.

Score

Value: 9/10

Meaningfully reduces EV driver stress and detours, with immediate, practical benefits.

Usability: 9/10

As simple as typing “EV charger,” with no complex menus or settings.

Wow Factor: 7/10

While not brand-new, the community-enhanced updates make it feel surprisingly fresh and helpful.

Total Score: 25/30   🌟 Excellent — Highly recommend.

Key Takeaways

Waze’s EV charging station search is a no-nonsense tool every EV driver should know. 

You’ll cut down range anxiety, tap into fresh community data, and reach your charging stops with confidence.

Try It Yourself

Fire up Waze on your next drive and search for an “EV charging station” before you hit the road. 

Feel free to share your experience in the comments, subscribe to our daily Cool Tip newsletter, and forward this tip to your colleagues or family who drive an EV.

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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