NEC Article 625: EV Charging Equipment
625.41 Continuous Load Rating
EV charging is classified as a continuous load because the EVSE draws its maximum rated current for 3 or more hours during a typical charge session. NEC requires continuous load circuits to be rated at 125% of the maximum load per 210.19(A)(1). A 48A Level 2 charger requires a 60A circuit (48 x 1.25 = 60A).
A 40A charger requires a 50A circuit (40 x 1.25 = 50A). This is why a 48A charger cannot be installed on a 50A breaker even though 48A is less than 50A. The 125% rule ensures the wire and breaker can handle sustained high-current draw without overheating.
For a complete EV charger wiring breakdown with wire sizes and voltage drop, see our EV charger wiring guide.
625.42 Branch Circuit Requirements
Each EVSE requires a dedicated branch circuit per 625.42 unless an approved energy management system is used. The circuit must be rated to supply the maximum current drawn by the EVSE for the full duration of charging. For receptacle-connected EVSE (plug-in units), the nameplate rating is limited to 80% of the branch circuit rating, so a 40A charger needs a 50A receptacle circuit.
For permanently connected (hardwired) EVSE, the circuit conductor ampacity must be at least 125% of the maximum current. Most residential Level 2 installations use either a NEMA 14-50R receptacle on a 50A circuit or a hardwired connection on a 60A circuit.
625.54 GFCI Protection
All EV charging equipment requires GFCI protection per NEC 625.54. Most listed EVSE units include built-in GFCI protection, which satisfies this requirement without needing a GFCI breaker. If the EVSE does not have built-in GFCI (check the listing and installation manual), a GFCI breaker must be installed at the panel.
Do not install both a GFCI breaker and an EVSE with built-in GFCI on the same circuit. Stacking two GFCI devices causes nuisance tripping because both devices detect the same ground-fault leakage current independently. If your charger has built-in GFCI, use a standard breaker.
If it does not, use a GFCI breaker.
NEC 2023 and 2026 Load Sharing for EV Charging
NEC 2023 Section 625.42 introduced the ability for multiple EVSE units to share a single branch circuit through an Energy Management System (EMS) per Article 750. With an approved EMS, two 48A chargers can share a single 60A circuit by communicating and dynamically allocating power based on actual demand.
NEC 2026 reorganized this framework: Article 750 (EMS) moved to Article 130, and a new distinction was created between Energy Management Systems (general energy management, evaluated to UL 916) and Power Control Systems (PCS, overload prevention, evaluated to UL 3141).
Section 625.42 now references PCS under Article 130 instead of EMS under Article 750, but the core concept remains the same. NEC 2026 also expanded provisions for bidirectional EVSE (vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid), recognizing that modern EVs can serve as backup power sources.
Installation Best Practices
For garage installations, mount the EVSE within reach of the vehicle charge port (typically the front or rear quarter panel). Use conduit rather than NM-B cable in garages for physical protection per 334.15, especially for the exposed run between the panel and the EVSE mounting location.
If installing outdoors, use a NEMA 4 or NEMA 4X rated enclosure and ensure the receptacle or connection point has an in-use weatherproof cover. Label the circuit breaker clearly as "EV CHARGER" for future homeowners and emergency responders. For long runs from the panel to a detached garage or outdoor location, check voltage drop using our voltage drop calculator.
A 6 AWG copper conductor on a 60A circuit can run approximately 153 feet before exceeding the 3% recommendation at 240V.
Related WireRef Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What does NEC Article 625 cover?
Article 625 covers ev charging (evse) requirements. Key sections include 625.41 Continuous Load Rating and 625.42 Branch Circuit Requirements. It applies to all electrical installations in the United States.
Where can I find the full text of Article 625?
The full NEC is published by NFPA and available at nfpa.org. Many libraries provide free access. Your local building department also has copies available for reference during permit applications.
Does Article 625 apply to existing wiring?
The NEC applies to new installations, modifications, and additions. Existing wiring that was code-compliant when installed is generally grandfathered unless a renovation triggers an upgrade requirement. Check with your local AHJ (authority having jurisdiction).
When did the current Article 625 requirements take effect?
NEC 2026 is the latest published edition (effective September 2025). NEC 2023 remains the most widely adopted edition by states. Adoption varies - check your state adoption status on our state code pages.
What size wire for a 48 amp EV charger?
6 AWG copper on a 60A breaker. The 48A load is continuous (125% sizing per 625.41), requiring a 60A circuit. 6 AWG copper at 75C is rated 65A per Table 310.16.
Can two EV chargers share one circuit?
Yes, starting with NEC 2023 Section 625.42, multiple EVSE can share a branch circuit when controlled by an approved Energy Management System (EMS). The EMS dynamically allocates available circuit capacity between chargers based on actual demand. Without an EMS, each EVSE needs its own dedicated circuit. NEC 2026 reorganized EMS under Article 130 and introduced the Power Control System (PCS) distinction.
Does an EV charger need a dedicated circuit?
Yes. NEC 625.42 requires each EVSE to have a dedicated branch circuit unless an approved energy management system controls the load. The circuit must be sized at 125% of the maximum load for continuous-duty operation.
NEC references verified May 2026