Method for providing access to a plug element

The method involves detecting identification information e.g. mobile phone number, of a user by an information detection unit that is attached to a charging station. A plug element is brought from a non-provision position into a provision position after the information detection. A socket is inaccessibly arranged in a housing of the charging station in the non-provision position. The plug element arranged in the housing is accessible from outside in the provision position. A counter-plug element i.e. charging cable, is inserted into the plug element.