NEC Article 625 & EVITP Overview
Foundation of EV charging code - NEC Article 625 scope, EVSE definitions, SAE J1772 standard, and pilot signal fundamentals.
- Identify NEC Article 625 as the governing code for EV charging equipment installations
- Define EVSE and explain what Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment encompasses
- Describe the SAE J1772 standard and pilot signal duty cycle communication
- Explain disconnecting means requirements and contactor function inside EVSE
- State the requirement under NEC 110.3(B) to follow listing and labeling instructions
Lesson 1
NEC Article 625 - The EV Charging Code
The Code That Governs EV Charging
Every electrical installation in the United States must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC). For electric vehicle charging, the specific article you must know is NEC Article 625 - Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System. This article covers the installation of equipment and wiring for electric vehicle charging, including the EVSE, branch circuits, feeders, and associated components.
Exam Tip - Article 625
When the exam asks "Which NEC article governs EV charging equipment installations?" - the answer is always Article 625. Do not confuse it with Article 430 (motors), Article 440 (AC equipment), or Article 310 (conductors).
Article 625 addresses the electrical conductors and equipment connecting an electric vehicle to a premises wiring system for the purpose of charging, power export, or bidirectional power transfer. It covers:
- EVSE construction and installation - how charging equipment must be manufactured, listed, and installed
- Wiring methods - acceptable conductor types, raceway requirements, and cord lengths
- Overcurrent protection - breaker sizing, continuous load rules, and GFCI requirements
- Disconnecting means - requirements for isolation switches accessible to service personnel
- Ventilation - when indoor charging requires mechanical ventilation interlocks
- Interactive systems - bidirectional (V2G/V2H) power transfer equipment
EVSE Must Be Listed
A critical concept throughout EVITP training is that all EVSE must be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) such as UL, ETL, or CSA. The listing ensures the equipment has been tested and found to comply with applicable safety standards. NEC 110.3(B) requires that listed equipment be installed and used in accordance with its listing and labeling instructions.
The EVITP Certification
The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) is the industry credential that validates an electrician's competence in installing EV charging infrastructure. EVITP-certified installers understand NEC Article 625 requirements, proper sizing techniques, safety protocols, and the unique electrical characteristics of EV charging systems. Many jurisdictions, utilities, and incentive programs require or prefer EVITP-certified installers.
NEC Article 625 is the governing code for all EV charging equipment installations. Every EVITP exam question about "which NEC article" applies to EVSE will reference Article 625. Combined with NEC 110.3(B), which mandates following manufacturer listing instructions, these two code references form the foundation of every compliant installation.