NEC Article 625: EV Charger Code Requirements

625 Scope & Key Definitions

Article 625 applies to "Electric Vehicle Power Transfer Systems" — the entire path from the premises wiring through EVSE to the vehicle inlet. Key terms: EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment), WPTE (Wireless Power Transfer Equipment), EVEMS (Energy Management System).

625.17 — Cords, Cables & Conductors

Output cables from EVSE must be a listed type EV, EVJ, EVE, EVJE, EVT, or EVJT cable. Length limits vary by installation type — 25 ft for standard, 15 ft for hazardous location. Conductors serving the EVSE must be sized per the continuous-load rules in 625.42.

625.40 — Branch Circuit

Each EVSE requires an individual branch circuit that supplies no other loads. This is a strict requirement — you cannot share the circuit with a garage receptacle, lighting, or any other load. The circuit must terminate at the EVSE or its receptacle.

625.42 — Load Rating (Continuous)

EVSE is treated as a continuous load. The overcurrent device and conductors must be sized at 125% of the maximum continuous EVSE current. Use this table for common Level 2 sizing:

An Energy Management System (EVEMS) may allow a smaller service if it limits the EVSE load dynamically per 625.42(A).

625.43 — Disconnecting Means

For EVSE rated more than 60 amps or more than 150 volts to ground, a disconnecting means is required. The disconnect must be readily accessible, lockable in the open position, and either within sight of the EVSE or in accordance with the section's remote-disconnect provisions.

625.44 — Attachment Fittings

Portable EVSE ≤ 20A: cord-and-plug connection permitted using a standard receptacle. Fastened-in-place EVSE ≤ 50A: cord-and-plug permitted with a receptacle rated for the load. Above 50A or above 250V: hardwired only. NEMA 14-50 is the standard for 40A cord-and-plug residential installs.

625.54 — GFCI Protection

All 125V and 250V receptacles rated 15A and 20A that supply EV charging equipment must have GFCI protection for personnel. Note this does NOT extend to hardwired connections or receptacles above 20A — many installers over-apply this rule.

625.60 — Marking

EVSE must be legibly marked with manufacturer name, model, voltage, current rating, and frequency. Field-installed disconnects and EVEMS controllers require permanent labels identifying the EVSE they serve.

Field Compliance Checklist

• ☐ Load calculation per NEC 220 completed and filed with permit
• ☐ Dedicated branch circuit — no shared loads (625.40)
• ☐ Breaker sized at 125% of continuous current (625.42)
• ☐ Conductor size and insulation rating match load table
• ☐ Disconnect installed if >60A or >150V to ground (625.43)
• ☐ GFCI on 15/20A 125/250V receptacles (625.54)
• ☐ Equipment grounding conductor continuous back to service
• ☐ Nameplate and disconnect labels legible and permanent (625.60)
• ☐ EVSE listed for the installation environment (indoor/outdoor)

Building this into your daily workflow? Our training includes printable NEC 625 permit-package templates and inspector cheat sheets.