Certifications for Electric Vehicle Charging Installer: Your Ultimate Guide
In recent years, many households have opted for an electric vehicle over a gasoline-powered car. Cleaner air and gas money saved – What’s not to love?
But unlike a vehicle with a diesel engine, an electric vehicle will no longer require you to pump gas at the station; unless you own a hybrid. From now on, you will need to find or install a trustworthy charging station.
However, it’s not easy to find an electric car charger or have one installed. Not all electricians have the capacity to install them, either.
If you want to get accredited to install these battery chargers or know somebody who does, check out our ultimate guide to becoming a certified electric vehicle charging installer. Read on!
Different Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Installer Certifications
With car manufacturers responding to the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, qualified electric vehicle charger installers are also increasing in demand.
However, you can’t simply install a vehicle charger out of a manual. You must take an electric vehicle charging installer course and get accredited.
Here are some of the most common types of electric vehicle charging installer certifications:
Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Installer Certification
A Level 2 electric vehicle charging station is the most common type of vehicle charging. It is used at home and in public spaces like workplaces, parking lots, and shopping malls.
The following are the topics that will be covered in the programmes:
- Basic Electrical Theory and Safety Practises (code of practice for electric vehicle charging)
- National Electrical Code (NEC) Requirements for EV Charging Stations
- Types of Level 2 EV Charging Stations and Components
- Installation and Maintenance Procedures
- Troubleshooting and Repair
Passing this certification exam proves your competency in installing, maintaining, and repairing your clients’ Level 2 EV charging stations.
The organisations that offer this certification include the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) and the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI).
The certification will be valid for a term of 3 years.
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Technician Certification
This certification is particularly required for automotive and electrical professionals who want to specialise in installing and maintaining EV charging stations.
The EVSE Technician Certification training programmes cover the following topics:
- Basic Electrical Theory and Safety Practices
- Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment, including Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging
- Installation Procedures for EV Charging Equipment (electric car charging points installation requirements)
- Troubleshooting and Repair of EV Charging Equipment
- Compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) and other Safety Standards
The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) are the organisations that offer this certification.
Once you pass, your certificate will be valid for the next five years.
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Master Technician Certification
This certification is a more advanced programme that will require the EVSE Technician Certification as a prerequisite.
To get the EVSE Master Technician Certification, you must qualify for the following:
- Hold a current EVSE Technician Certification
- Have at least two years of experience installing and maintaining EV charging equipment.
- Complete an advanced training programme covering Advanced Electrical Theory and Safety Practices, Complex Troubleshooting and Repair of EV Charging Equipment, and Compliance with Industry Standards and Regulations.
- Pass the advanced level certification exam.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers this certification. It is valid for five years.
Accreditation Agencies for Electric Vehicle Charging Installer Certifications
The following accreditation agencies ensure the programmes are comprehensive, up-to-date, and maintain integrity:
National Fire Protection Association
The NFPA is a recognised authority in general fire safety and electrical safety. For EV charging installers, they certify topics covering electrical safety, grounding and bonding, and safety regulations for EV charging installations.
Automotive Service Excellence
ASE is a non-profit organisation that certifies automotive professionals, including EV charging installers.
Many employers in the automotive industry require a certification from ASE to ensure electricians have the competency to install and maintain EV charging stations.
International Code Council
The International Code Council (ICC) is a non-profit organisation that provides training and certification programmes for professionals in the construction and building industry. They focus on building safety and code development.
Because EV charging stations are installed in homes and public spaces, the authority of the ICC is greatly acknowledged to assure building safety for EV owners.
These certifications cover electrical safety, electrical wiring and grounding, and compliance with building codes and industry standards.
Cost of Certification
The exam fees and renewal fees for electric vehicle (EV) charging installer certifications will vary depending on the type of certification and accrediting agency.
Exam Fees
The following are the necessary costs of some certifications:
- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) Certification for Level 1 and Level 2 – averages £220 each
- The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification – £74
- The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification – £131
- The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Certification – £179
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – varies per certification type
Renewal Fees
The following are the necessary costs of some certification renewals:
- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) Certification for Level 1 and Level 2 – None
- The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification – £31 every 5 years
- The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification – £48 annually
- The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Certification – £60 annually
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – varies per certification type
Most fees are subject to change. It is best to check the accrediting agency or organisation offering the training programmes and certifications for a more updated price on the training, exam, and renewal fees.
Process for Obtaining Certification
Here are some general steps to get certified:
Research Agencies and Certifications
Research the agencies and certifications you can take. Go for those recognised by industry professionals, employers, and government agencies.
Meet Prerequisites
Check the eligibility requirements for the certification you are interested in. This usually involves education and experience requirements.
Register for Exam
After enrolling and finishing the training programmes, schedule to take the exam.
Prepare for Exam
Programmes will come with study materials. Make sure to review them well to ace the exam.
Take Exam
The exam may be administered online or in person and will cover the relevant topics for the certification.
Receive Certification
If you pass the certification exam, you will receive the certification from the accrediting agency.
Some agencies may require completing continuing education or obtaining a certain number of work hours before the certification is granted.
Final Words
As the electric vehicle business grows, more EV owners will likely avail of your service. Make sure to stay relevant and competitive by getting certified!
