Driving an electric vehicle in Virginia? You’re in good company. With EV ownership rising fast across the state, the demand for public charging stations is growing too—and thankfully, Virginia’s been stepping up. Whether you’re planning a long trip or just need a quick top-up, there are plenty of places to plug in.
Here’s your complete guide to finding EV charging stations in Virginia, plus some handy tips to make your charging experience smoother.
Growth
Virginia has added thousands of public charging ports in the last few years. As of 2025, there are more than 1,800 public charging stations across the state, with over 4,500 individual charging ports. You’ll find them in parking garages, retail centers, workplaces, and rest areas.
Much of the expansion is due to local investment and federal programs like the NEVI (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) funding. The goal? Make charging just as easy as gassing up—and it’s getting there.
Locations
EV charging spots are now available in all corners of the state. Here are some key locations:
| Area | Charging Hotspots |
|---|---|
| Northern Virginia | Tysons, Arlington, Reston, Dulles Airport |
| Richmond | Downtown, VCU campus, Short Pump malls |
| Hampton Roads | Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Newport News |
| Roanoke Valley | Downtown Roanoke, Salem, Blacksburg |
| I-95 Corridor | Rest stops, Sheetz, Wawa, hotel parking |
| Blue Ridge Region | National parks, scenic lookouts, wineries |
Most stations are Level 2 chargers, but you’ll find an increasing number of DC fast chargers near major highways.
Types
Not all EV chargers are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Charger Type | Charging Speed | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 3–5 miles/hour | Overnight home charging |
| Level 2 | 10–30 miles/hour | Work, malls, day trips |
| DC Fast | 60–250+ miles/hour | Road trips, quick boosts |
Tesla Superchargers are also widespread, but thanks to adapters and network sharing, many non-Tesla EVs can use fast chargers from brands like Electrify America, ChargePoint, and EVgo.
Apps
The best way to find charging stations on the go? Use apps. They show availability, plug type, and even pricing.
Top options include:
- PlugShare – Real-time locations and user reviews
- ChargePoint – One of the largest networks nationwide
- Electrify America – Fast chargers near highways and travel centers
- A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) – Trip planning with charging stops
These apps let you filter by charger type, brand, speed, and even free stations.
Tips
Here’s how to make your EV charging experience better in Virginia:
- Plan ahead for long drives and know where the fast chargers are
- Avoid peak times at popular chargers, especially near cities
- Bring adapters if your EV isn’t compatible with all plugs
- Use parking apps—some garages now offer EV-only spots with reservations
- Check station status on apps—some chargers may be in use or offline
Charging in Virginia is getting easier every month. With a mix of fast and slow chargers across the state, owning an EV here is more practical than ever—whether you’re commuting or looking into the mountains.
FAQs
How many EV stations are in Virginia?
Over 1,800 stations with 4,500+ charging ports.
Where can I find fast chargers?
Along highways, rest stops, and travel centers.
Are Tesla Superchargers public?
Yes, some now support non-Tesla EVs with adapters.
Which app shows charger availability?
PlugShare and ChargePoint are top options.
Do Virginia rest stops have EV chargers?
Yes, especially along I-95 and I-81.
