Printable
EV charger installation checklist
Everything to gather, check, and ask — in installation order. Print it, stick it on the fridge, hand a copy to your electrician.
1 · Before you buy anything
- Photograph the main breaker label (the big number: 100A / 150A / 200A)
- Photograph the panel directory and any open breaker slots
- Measure the wire path: panel → parking spot (every foot counts at $14–$28/ft)
- Note existing 240V outlets nearby (dryer, range, RV) — reuse may save hundreds
- Decide daily miles → needed amperage (40 mi/day charges fine at 24–32A)
- If panel is 100–125A: plan for a load calculation before choosing charger amperage
2 · Money: lock in before purchase
- Check your utility's rebate page — note the amount and funding status today
- Confirm your charger model is on the utility's approved / qualifying list
- Check pre-enrollment requirements (e.g. Xcel's Optimize Your Charge must come first)
- Income-qualified? Check enhanced tiers (SCE up to $4,200 / Xcel $1,300 / PG&E free charger)
- Save screenshots of program terms on application day
- Plan the application timing — most programs want it within 60–180 days of install
3 · Choosing the electrician
- Get 2–3 itemized quotes (wire, breaker, permit, labor as separate lines)
- Verify the license on your state's board website (number on the quote)
- Ask: "Will you pull the permit, and is it included in this price?"
- Ask: "Have you filed [my utility]'s rebate paperwork before?"
- Ask: "Plug-in with GFCI breaker vs hardwired — price both, please"
- Confirm liability insurance and workmanship warranty in writing
4 · Permit documents
- Charger spec sheet (make, model, amperage, UL listing)
- Panel photos from step 1
- Simple site sketch: panel location → wire route → charger location
- Load calculation (required for 40A+ circuits or 100A service in most cities)
- Permit fee budgeted: typically $75–$350
- HOA / condo: written approval before work starts
5 · Installation day
- Permit number in hand (ask for it on the invoice)
- Breaker sized to charger's continuous load (125% rule)
- Charger mounted 18–48 in high, cable reaches the charge port comfortably
- Outdoor install: weather-rated equipment (NEMA 3R+), in-use cover on receptacle
- Wi-Fi reaches the charger location (or plan an extender) for smart features / rebate telemetry
- Keep the itemized paid invoice — rebates and taxes both want it
6 · Inspection & after
- Schedule the final inspection; be home or arrange access
- Pass = signed record; file it with home documents (resale will ask)
- Submit the utility rebate with invoice + permit + photos
- Switch to an EV time-of-use rate; schedule charging into the cheap window
- Installed on or before June 30, 2026? Save documents for the federal 30C credit (Form 8911, 2026 return)
- Set the charger's amperage limit to match the approved circuit — then enjoy
Electrical work can be dangerous and is regulated by code. This page is educational, not electrical or engineering advice. Hire a licensed electrician and follow your local permitting process.