Does NEC Article 625 apply to DC fast chargers as well?

Yes. Article 625 covers all EV charging system types including Level 1 (120 V), Level 2 (240 V), and DC fast charging (DCFC). DCFC installations have additional ventilation and equipment listing requirements within the article.

What is the difference between NEC 625 and NEC 625.42?

NEC Article 625 is the entire article governing EV charging systems. Section 625.42 is the specific subsection that establishes the rating requirement for the EV branch circuit — the 125% continuous load sizing rule.

Is a dedicated circuit always required for an EV charger?

Yes, per NEC 625.40. EV chargers must be on a dedicated branch circuit. They cannot share a circuit with other loads because the continuous load nature of charging would overload shared circuits.

NEC Article 625 Explained: EV Charger Wiring Rules (2026)

Whether you are an electrician preparing for an EVITP exam or a homeowner trying to understand what your contractor is doing, NEC Article 625 is the code section you need to know. It covers every aspect of how EV charging equipment must be wired, protected, and disconnected.

Quick Answer

NEC Article 625 covers the electrical conductors and equipment connecting an EV supply equipment (EVSE) to the premises wiring system. It establishes rules for circuit sizing, disconnects, grounding, ventilation (for indoor DC fast chargers), personnel protection, and listing requirements for all EVSE equipment.

Key Sections Every EV Installer Must Know

Section	Rule
625.2	Definitions — EVSE, EV, conductive/inductive coupling
625.17	EVSE cord and plug connections — maximum cord length 25 ft for portable units
625.40	Electric vehicle branch circuit — dedicated circuit required
625.42	Rating of EV branch circuit — 125% of continuous load minimum
625.43	Disconnecting means — readily accessible, within sight of the EVSE
625.54	GFCI protection — required for all outdoor EVSE installations
625.60	Personnel protection — EV charging system must be listed by a nationally recognized testing lab

The 125% Continuous Load Rule (NEC 625.42)

This is the rule that trips up most beginners. An EV charger is classified as a continuous load — one that operates for 3 hours or more. NEC requires that the circuit be sized to handle 125% of the maximum load. In practice this means: if your charger draws 32 A, the circuit must be rated for at least 40 A (32 × 1.25 = 40). Never select a breaker based on the charger's output alone without applying this multiplier.

Disconnecting Means Requirements

NEC 625.43 requires a disconnecting means that is readily accessible and within sight of the EVSE. For most residential hardwired installs, the dedicated circuit breaker in the panel qualifies if the panel is within sight. For commercial or remote installations, a separate disconnect switch mounted near the unit is usually required. Always confirm with your local AHJ.

GFCI Protection — When Is It Required?

All outdoor EVSE installations — always required
Garages — required unless the circuit is for a listed EVSE with built-in ground fault protection
Commercial parking structures — inspector may require GFCI on all circuits
Indoor installations on a dedicated circuit with a listed EVSE — confirm with AHJ

Code Cycle Note

The NEC is updated on a three-year cycle. Always verify which edition your local jurisdiction has adopted — many areas are still on the 2020 NEC while others have adopted the 2023 edition. Your AHJ's adopted edition is the controlling document, not the latest published version.

NEC Article 625 Basics: EV Charger Wiring Requirements Explained

The Short Answer