How to Install an EV Charger at Home: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Choose Your Charger (1–3 days)

Decide between a hardwired Level 2 charger (fastest, most reliable) or a NEMA 14-50 outlet with a portable EVSE (more flexible, lower cost). For most California homeowners with a single EV and a garage, a hardwired 40–48A Level 2 charger is the best long-term choice.

Step 2: Get Quotes from Licensed Electricians (2–5 days)

Contact 2–3 CSLB-licensed electricians for quotes. Provide them with: the charger model you’ve chosen (or ask for their recommendation), a photo of your electrical panel, and the approximate distance from the panel to where you want the charger mounted.

Step 3: Permit Application (1–20 business days)

Your electrician pulls the permit from your local building department. Under California AB 970, residential EV charger permits must be approved within 5 business days for cities over 100,000 population, and 20 business days for smaller jurisdictions. Many cities now offer instant online permits.

Step 4: Installation Day (2–4 hours)

Your electrician runs the conduit and wire from your panel to the charger location, installs the breaker, mounts the charger, and connects everything. They will not energize the circuit until after the city inspection.

Step 5: City Inspection (1–5 business days after installation)

A city inspector visits to verify the installation meets code. This typically takes 15–30 minutes. Once approved, your electrician energizes the circuit and you can begin charging.

Step 6: Utility Rebate Application (1–4 weeks)

Submit your rebate application to your utility (LADWP, SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E) with your permit, inspection approval, and installation invoice. Rebates of $500–$1,000 are typically processed within 4–8 weeks.