Find EV Charging Parking in San Jose Without Wasting Time
San Jose has a strong public EV charging network. Therefore, drivers can charge in several downtown garages, public lots, curbside spaces, and other City locations. However, charging fees and parking fees are separate, so check both before you leave the car.
CHARGING STATIONS
Quick Answer: Where Can You Charge an EV in San Jose?
First, downtown San Jose is the easiest place to find City-operated charging. The City currently reports 54 charging stations in downtown public parking garages.
In addition, the City has 187 EV charging stations in operation across San Jose. Therefore, drivers have options beyond the downtown core.
However, charging cost does not always include parking. As a result, you should check the garage or lot fee separately.
54 Charging Stations
Several City garages offer public charging close to downtown offices, restaurants, events, and attractions.
187 Stations
In addition, San Jose reports 187 City charging stations currently in operation.
Free Charging Use
At SJC, ChargePoint use is free. However, the normal parking fee still applies.
San Jose EV Charging Rates for 2026
San Jose uses time-of-use pricing for City Level 2 chargers. Therefore, the price depends on when you charge.
Currently, the lowest City rate applies between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meanwhile, the highest rate applies during the evening peak.
Why the Rate Changes During the Day
The City uses time-based pricing to reflect operating costs. Therefore, charging during lower-demand hours can cost less.
In addition, the City says its rates cover electricity, maintenance, ChargePoint network fees, and payment processing.
Downtown San Jose Garages With EV Charging
Downtown has the strongest concentration of City-operated EV charging. Therefore, it is often the easiest choice for visitors.
The City lists chargers at several major public parking facilities. In addition, ParkSJ provides live garage occupancy information.
| Location | Charging | Parking | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Hall Garage | City EV charging | Garage rules apply | City Hall and civic visits |
| Convention Center Garage | City EV charging | Garage rates apply | Conventions and downtown events |
| Fourth & San Fernando | City EV charging | Garage rates apply | SJSU and downtown trips |
| Fourth & St. John | City EV charging | Facility rules apply | North downtown |
| Market & San Pedro Square | City EV charging | Garage rates apply | Dining and nightlife |
| Second & San Carlos | City EV charging | Garage rates apply | Downtown and convention trips |
| Third Street Garage | City EV charging | Garage rates apply | North and central downtown |
Check Garage Occupancy Before You Drive
ParkSJ shows live occupancy for several downtown garages. Therefore, checking the map before arrival can save time.
However, an open parking space does not guarantee an open charger. For that reason, check ChargePoint as well.
Market & San Pedro Square Garage
This garage is useful for restaurants, nightlife, and downtown events. In addition, the City lists EV charging at the facility.
However, the garage façade is under construction through summer 2027. Therefore, some capacity may be limited while the project continues.
ParkSJ says the Market Street vehicle entrance remains open. As a result, drivers can still access the garage during the work.
Street and Surface-Lot EV Charging
Not every City charger sits inside a garage. For example, San Jose lists public chargers on Santa Clara Street between Fourth and Fifth Streets.
In addition, the Woz & Almaden Boulevard surface lot has City EV charging. Therefore, these locations may work better for shorter stops.
Check the Parking Sign Before Plugging In
Street charging spaces can have parking restrictions. Therefore, read the curb sign before you leave the vehicle.
Also, move the car after charging when the rules require it. That way, another EV driver can use the charger.
What Type of Chargers Does San Jose Use?
Most City public charging is Level 2. Therefore, it works well for parking sessions that last longer than a quick fuel stop.
ParkSJ describes Level 2 units at up to 7.2 kW. In addition, the network uses standard J1772 connectors.
Level 1 Charging
Some locations may also include Level 1 charging. However, Level 1 is much slower than Level 2.
As a result, it is better suited to long parking sessions.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 is the main choice for City public charging. Therefore, most drivers should expect this type at downtown facilities.
EV Charging at San Jose Mineta International Airport
SJC offers ChargePoint stations in Hourly Lot 2 and Hourly & Daily Lot 5. Therefore, EV drivers can charge while using airport parking.
The airport says there is no extra charging fee. However, the normal parking rate for the lot still applies.
Hourly Lot 2
The Terminal A Garage area includes EV charging. In addition, the airport lists three dual charging stations serving six vehicles.
Hourly & Daily Lot 5
Lot 5 also has ChargePoint charging near Terminal B. Currently, five charging stations serve up to nine vehicles.
Charging Is First Come, First Served
Airport chargers cannot be guaranteed in advance. Therefore, do not arrive with a nearly empty battery if charging is essential to your trip.
In addition, airport rules require vehicles in EV spaces to be actively charging. Otherwise, a citation may apply.
EV Charging at San Jose State University
SJSU operates Level 2 ChargePoint stations in the North Garage and Lot 4. Therefore, students and visitors have another charging option near downtown.
However, SJSU parking rules differ from City garage rules. A valid SJSU parking permit is required in addition to the charging fee.
Charging Time Limit
SJSU gives EV charging spaces a four-hour time limit. Therefore, move the vehicle after the allowed charging period.
In addition, the university applies its own charging fee. Currently, SJSU lists $0.48 per kWh for the first four hours and 30 minutes.
Overstay Charge
After four hours and 30 minutes, SJSU lists a $0.48 per minute charge. Therefore, leaving the vehicle too long can become expensive quickly.
Which San Jose EV Charging Location Fits Your Trip?
The best charger depends on where you are going. Therefore, choose the parking facility around your actual destination.
Civic Visit
Choose City Hall Garage when your trip centers on City Hall or nearby government offices.
Convention Center
Therefore, the Convention Center Garage is a natural choice for major convention and event trips.
San Pedro Square
Meanwhile, Market & San Pedro Square works well for restaurants and nightlife.
SJSU Area
Fourth Street options may work well near campus. However, check the specific facility rules first.
SJC Trip
Use Lot 2 or Lot 5 if you need charging during an airport parking stay.
Street or Surface Lot
Alternatively, a street or surface-lot charger can suit a shorter downtown visit.
EV Charging Parking Rules and Etiquette
A charging space is not simply an EV parking space. Therefore, plug in when the location requires active charging.
Move the Car After Charging
Once the battery has enough charge, move the vehicle when practical. As a result, another driver can use the station.
Do Not Block the Charger
Avoid leaving an EV in a charging stall without charging. Otherwise, you may violate the posted rules.
Check Connector Compatibility
City Level 2 charging commonly uses J1772. Therefore, some vehicles may need an adapter.
Watch the Time
Parking limits can apply even while you charge. In addition, some locations may use overstay fees or citations.
San Jose EV Charging Parking Checklist
Before you drive, use this short checklist. As a result, you can avoid many common charging problems.
Before You Arrive
After You Park
San Jose Downtown EV Charging Map
Downtown has several City garages with EV charging. Therefore, this map is a useful starting point for trip planning.
However, charger status can change. For that reason, also check the live ChargePoint network before arrival.
City garages, street chargers, and public charging options Open Google Maps
Official San Jose EV Charging Resources
Charging prices and station availability can change. Therefore, use the official pages below before your trip.
In addition, check the charger network for real-time status. That way, you can avoid arriving at an unavailable station.