News & guides › How-to

Supercharging basics: how to plug in, pay and unplug

Published Oct 22, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026 · 5 min read · By VoltCoach

The steps to use a Supercharger, how billing works, and how to avoid extra fees.

Using a Supercharger takes four steps, and payment happens in the Tesla app.

Plug in and charge

1. Open the charge port from the touchscreen or the Tesla app, or press the bottom of the charge port door while the car is unlocked.
2. Plug the connector into the car. The port light flashes green once charging starts.
3. Watch progress in the Tesla app.
4. When you are done, hold the button on the connector handle to release the latch, then pull the handle out. The port closes automatically.

Pay

Add a payment method in the Tesla app and set it as your Supercharging payment method. Payment is taken after you unplug. Where possible billing is per kWh. In other places it is per minute, in four tiers based on charging speed. Your price is set when you plug in and does not change during the session. Find invoices in the app under Charging, Charging History.

Save time and money

• Charging slows as the battery fills, so charging to 100% takes much longer than reaching 80%. Often you do not need a full charge.
• Navigation recommends a charge level to reach the next Supercharger. At busy sites the limit may be set to 80% automatically, and you can raise it.
• Congestion fees can apply when a site is busy and your battery is at or above 80%, or after your session ends. The first five minutes are free. Unplug promptly when you are done.

How fast is it?

Tesla lists the range added in 15 minutes at up to 162 miles for Model Y and 175 miles for Model 3. Real speeds depend on the battery's size, age and charge level, the temperature, and the car's configuration.

Keep reading