The on-site work for a simple home Level 2 installation, where the panel has spare capacity and the charger sits close to it, often takes an electrician a few hours and is usually finished in a day. The longer part is the lead time around it: survey and quote, permit, inspection and, in some cases, utility work. A job that needs a panel or service upgrade can stretch to weeks, and commercial sites often take months.
The Timeline at a Glance
| Stage | What happens | What can extend it |
|---|---|---|
| Survey and quote | An electrician checks the panel, route and parking spot | Installer availability; site visits for complex homes |
| Permit | Many areas require a permit, and some need a site plan approved first | Local permit backlogs |
| Installation | New circuit, breaker, mounting, connection and testing | Long cable runs, exterior walls, trenching |
| Inspection | A local inspector checks the work where required | Inspector scheduling |
| Utility work | Only if a service upgrade or new meter is needed | Utility lead times, which can be long |
The DOE notes that charging installations must comply with local and state codes, that permits may be required, and that in many areas a site installation plan must be approved before work starts. Ask your local building department how long that takes where you live.
What Makes a Job Quick
- The panel has room for a new double-pole breaker and enough spare capacity.
- The charger is mounted in the garage close to the panel.
- The wire route is short and open, without finished walls to cross.
- You already own the charger and know its current rating.
- For a plug-in charger, a suitable outlet is already in place.
Choosing between a hardwired unit and a plug-in unit affects the work too. Our guide on hardwired vs plug-in chargers explains the trade-offs.
What Adds Days or Weeks
- Panel or service upgrade: if the home lacks capacity, the electrician may need to upgrade the panel or request a larger service from the utility. See what size charger your home can support.
- Distance and trenching: a detached garage or driveway post means more cable and digging.
- Approvals: condo boards, landlords and HOAs may need to sign off before work starts.
- Rebate rules: some utility programs require pre-approval or a listed contractor, so apply before booking.
Commercial and Multi-Charger Sites
Workplaces, apartments and public sites need load calculations, design drawings, utility coordination and often network setup. These projects commonly run for weeks to months. Read our guide to building load calculation basics before you plan. EVDANCE supplies the EV-AC03201T dual-gun AC station and the EV-RHDC30K-L compact DC fast charger, and our commercial team can help with planning.
For homes, the EV-ACT5006T 48A wall charger can be hard-wired or used with a NEMA 14-50P plug. Under the NEC, a 48 A charger needs a 60 A breaker, a 40 A charger a 50 A breaker. A licensed electrician should confirm what your home can support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge my EV before the installation is done?
Usually yes. The Level 1 cord that came with many EVs works on a standard outlet, ideally on a dedicated circuit, while you wait.
Will my power be off during installation?
The electrician will switch off power for part of the job, usually while connecting the new circuit to the panel. Ask how long to expect.
Can I use the charger before the inspection?
It depends on local rules. Follow your electrician’s and inspector’s guidance.
Related Reading
- Wallbox Home Charger Installation Guide 2026
- What Affects EV Charger Installation Cost?
- Why Is EV Charger Installation So Expensive?
- Can I Install a Level 2 Charger Myself?
Key Takeaways
- A simple home install often takes a few hours on site and is usually done in a day.
- Permits, inspections and utility work usually take longer than the installation itself.
- Panel upgrades, long runs and approvals can add weeks.
- Commercial projects commonly take weeks to months.