Payment method requirements for publicly accessible charging stations

ChargePoint stations intended for public use provide a wide range of payment options.  

Drivers can always use the free ChargePoint app to pay using a ChargePoint account, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal, or pay via roaming agreements with other charging network apps and RFID cards. 

Additionally, all station models intended for public use offer contactless payment technology that accepts major credit and debit cards and a toll-free telephone payments service. ChargePoint also offers EMV chip readers as optional in some models to enable customers to comply with specific legal requirements or grant opportunities.

Pursuant to the California Health and Safety Code, electric vehicle charging stations that require payment of a fee and are first installed or first made publicly available on or after July 10, 2023, must at least provide: 

• a contactless payment method that accepts major credit and debit cards, and
• an automated toll-free telephone number or a short message system (SMS) that provides the option to initiate a charging session and submit payment. 

Important note: Bear in mind that the new law moves authority to regulate charging stations from the California Air Resources Board over to the California Energy Commission, which now must establish rules regarding several important considerations for EV charging stations, including how to implement these payment methods. This process may take several months.

Yes. This requirement applies to all forms of publicly accessible EV charging stations.

If stations in California are visible to all drivers in the ChargePoint app and available for any driver to use, they are considered publicly accessible and must provide the payment methods described above. Stations that are limited to use by certain groups, such as customers, employees or residents, do not need to provide these payment options.

ChargePoint enables organizations to limit stations to certain users using access control and Connections in the ChargePoint app.

In this context, a “contactless payment method” means a secure method for consumers to purchase services using a debit card, credit card, smartcard or another payment device, by using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology or near-field communication (NFC).

Yes, but the law in question was amended on July 2023, to, among others, eliminate the need for EMV chip readers. A new law is in the process of being implemented, and the California Energy Commission will issue regulations regarding various important considerations for publicly accessible EV charging stations, including how to implement payment methods.

If you are in California and no longer want an EMV chip reader, please reach out to your ChargePoint representative. Contactless payment technology may offer several benefits over EMV chip readers, including increased hygiene, reduced wear and tear, and increased reliability. 

No, but some state or utility incentive programs and grant opportunities may require EMV chip readers.  Regulations may change from time to time, so be sure to check with all regulatory bodies and seek counsel before installing an EV charging station for public use.

Regulations may change from time to time, so be sure to check with all regulatory bodies and seek counsel before installing an EV charging station for public use. 

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ChargePoint customers can contact our support team for assistance.