As the UK moves closer to the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, the demand for EV charger installation is sky-high. If you are an electrician looking to upskill, or a homeowner wondering what goes on behind the scenes, understanding the role of an EV charger electrician is vital.
It is a specialist field that blends traditional electrical knowledge with modern smart technology. Here is the lowdown on the training, the tech, and the legalities of getting qualified.
Can I install an EV charger myself?
The short answer is no. While it might be tempting to save on labour costs, EV charger installation is not a DIY job. Under the UK Building Regulations (specifically Part P), installing a new circuit for an EV charger is “notifiable” work.
This means it must be carried out by a competent person who can self-certify their work or be inspected by building control. Beyond the legalities, EV chargers handle high currents for long periods; an incorrect installation is a serious fire risk. To keep your home safe and your car warranty intact, you must use a qualified professional.
The foundation: Becoming a qualified electrician
You cannot jump straight into an EV charger installer course without a solid foundation. To become an EV charger electrician, you first need to be a fully qualified LEVel 3 electrician. This usually involves:
- An NVQ LEVel 3 Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment.
- Completing the AM2 (AchiEVement Measurement 2) practical assessment.
- Holding the latest 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) qualification.
Once you have these under your belt, you are ready to specialise in electric vehicle charging equipment.
Specialist EV charger courses and qualifications
Because EV charging involves unique safety challenges such as specific earthing requirements and load balancing, electricians need to take a dedicated EV charger qualification.
The most common route is through a City & Guilds or NICEIC accredited EV charger installer course. Specifically, the City & Guilds 2921-31 (Design and Installation of Domestic and Small Commercial Electric Vehicle Charging Installations) is the industry standard.
These EV charger courses cover:
- How to calculate the electrical load to ensure the house doesn’t “trip” when the car is charging.
- Selecting the right type of charger (tethered vs untethered).
- Understanding the different earthing arrangements (TT, TN-S, and TN-C-S).
- Setting up smart features and data connections.
Registration and government schemes
Being qualified is the first step, but many EV charger electrician professionals also choose to register with a Competent Person Scheme, such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA.
Registration is often a requirement for installers who want to help their customers access the EV charger installation grant. To be an OZEV-authorised installer, a business must be registered with one of these bodies and prove they have the right insurance and technical competence.
Why use Rated People to find your EV charger electrician?
Finding someone who has the right EV charger qualification shouldn’t feel like hard work. When you use Rated People, we help bridge the gap between your project and a pro who knows exactly what they are doing.
Our platform allows you to check a tradesperson’s profile for their specific experience in EV charger installation. You can read genuine reviews from previous customers to see how they handled the job, from the initial site survey to the final safety check. By choosing a local expert through Rated People, you can be confident that your installer is up to date with the latest regulations and safety standards, ensuring your transition to electric driving is smooth and secure.
The future is electric
The role of the EV charger electrician is only going to grow in importance. Whether you are looking to start a new career path through EV charger courses or you are a homeowner ready to upgrade your driveway, focusing on quality and qualification is the best way to stay ahead of the curve.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.