When you're about to buy a new Tesla, you quickly run into terms like referral code, discount code and referral link. It can sound technical, but it covers something very simple: a personal link from an existing Tesla owner that gives you access to Tesla's current referral benefits when you order your car.
This guide explains what the code actually is, what you get out of it, how it differs from an ordinary discount, and how to use it correctly so the benefit is actually registered on your order.
Referral code, discount code or referral link?
First, a clarification, because the different words confuse many people: they mean the same thing. Tesla officially calls it a referral program. In everyday speech people often say "discount code", because the result for you resembles a discount. Whichever word you encounter, it's about the same personal link.
In this case the code is kristoffer385020, and it's built into the referral link. So you rarely need to type anything manually, you simply click the link before you order.
What do you get from a referral code?
The benefit depends on which model you buy and on the program Tesla is running at the time of ordering. Tesla adjusts the benefits regularly, so the exact amounts and kilometres should always be checked on the official referral page when you order. Recently the benefits have typically looked like this:
- Model 3 and Model Y: typically 1,000 km of free Supercharging - enough for the first many trips in the new car.
- Model S and Model X: a cash discount on the purchase price.
Important about the benefits
Benefits, amounts and qualifying models are set solely by Tesla and may change without notice. Treat figures here as indicative, and always confirm the current benefit on the referral page before you place your order.
Why do you see different numbers online (1,000, 2,000, 5,000 km)?
Search around and you'll run into wildly different figures: some sites promise 1,000 km, others 2,000 km, and a few even claim 5,000 km of free Supercharging. It's confusing, and the explanation is fairly simple:
- The program keeps changing. Tesla has both raised and lowered the benefit over the years, so a number that was correct six months ago can be out of date today.
- The benefit isn't the same in every country. Amounts and kilometres can vary from market to market, so a US or German figure doesn't necessarily apply to an order placed in Denmark.
- Some sites exaggerate for clicks. High numbers like "5,000 km free" grab attention, but they're rarely backed up by Tesla's own page.
That's why I mention the most recent, widely reported level (around 1,000 km on Model 3 and Y) as a rough guide, not a promise. The only place with a binding, current figure is Tesla's own referral page, which you'll see when you click the link and start your order. If you're shown a different number than the one here, Tesla's number is the one that counts.
What are Tesla credits?
On the more expensive models (and in certain campaigns) the benefit is sometimes given as credits rather than free kilometres. A credit is an amount added to your Tesla account that you can spend on things like Supercharging, accessories in the Tesla shop, or software. Free Supercharging kilometres and credits are simply two ways of delivering the same basic idea, a perk on top of the car, and which form you get depends on the model and the program. Either way, it's free for you to unlock through the referral.
How is it different from an ordinary discount code?
A classic discount code in a web shop typically deducts an amount at checkout. A Tesla referral works a little differently: it links your order to an existing owner, and the benefit is then granted according to Tesla's program. That means the benefit can be either a price adjustment (Model S/X) or a perk on top of the car, such as free Supercharging (Model 3/Y), rather than just a fixed cash amount.
It also means the code is completely free to use. You never pay more than you otherwise would at Tesla; the benefit is added on top.
How to use the code (in short)
The process itself takes under a minute:
- Click the referral link before you place your order.
- Configure and order your Tesla exactly as usual on tesla.com.
- The referral is registered automatically on your order, and the benefit is granted according to the current program.
Want the full, step-by-step walkthrough with the typical pitfalls? See how to use a Tesla referral code, and remember that the referral usually needs to be in place before the order is confirmed. To dig into what the benefit covers for each model, read Tesla referral benefits 2026.
Is it safe and legitimate?
Yes. The referral program is Tesla's own official program. You order directly with Tesla, and all payment and personal details are handled by Tesla, not by this site. This site simply forwards you with my code so you can get the benefit. You can read more of the background and common questions on the home page.
Frequently asked questions
Are "referral code" and "discount code" the same? Yes, they're just different words for the personal referral link.
Does it cost anything? No, it's free, and the price of the car doesn't change to your disadvantage. The benefit is added on top.
When should the code be used? Before you confirm your order. Afterwards the referral usually can't be added.
Do I get 5,000 km free? No, that figure is rarely backed up by Tesla's own page. The most recent widely reported level is around 1,000 km on Model 3 and Y, but the figure that applies is the one shown on the referral page when you order.
Does the benefit also apply to me as the existing owner who refers? Yes, the program usually rewards both parties, the new buyer and the owner who shares the code.