A typical home EV charger install is a one-day job, but a permit and an inspection are part of it in California. Here is the usual order of things.
Do I need a permit to install an EV charger in California?
Yes. Adding a 240-volt circuit for an EV charger is permitted electrical work. California law requires cities and counties to offer a streamlined permit process for EV charging stations, so permits are usually straightforward. The inspection confirms the circuit, breaker, wire, grounding and GFCI requirements are correct, which also matters for insurance and resale.
What happens during the install?
- Site check: panel capacity, breaker space, and the route from the panel to where you park. Photos are often enough for a starting price.
- Permit pulled by the electrician.
- Install: new breaker, wire or conduit, and either a NEMA 14-50 outlet or a hardwired charger. Power is off to the panel for part of the work.
- Inspection by the city or county; someone usually needs to be home so the inspector can see the panel and charger.
Where should the charger go?
Mount it where the cable reaches your car's charge port without stretching across walkways, out of the way of car doors, and close to the panel when possible to keep the run short (and the price down). Outdoor chargers and outlets must be rated for wet locations.
How much does it cost?
IES starting at $1,510 for a NEMA 14-50 outlet circuit up to 25 ft, $1,610 hardwired at 40 A, and $1,840 hardwired at 48 A, with your charger. Get a starting price from photos.
About these prices: rough starting-at prices from the IES price book. The final price depends on what we find on site, your utility and your city or county. Estimates are free.
Common questions
How long does an EV charger installation take?
The install is usually done in one day. The permit and inspection schedule depend on your city or county.
Can I install my own EV charger outlet?
This is 240-volt panel work that requires a permit. Hire a licensed electrician; mistakes can cause overheating and fires.
General information for California homes under the California Electrical Code (based on the NEC). Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Never work inside a panel, at the meter or on live circuits.