How to Train and Qualify as an EV Charger Installer in the UK
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer the future — they’re fast becoming the present. With the UK government banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the demand for skilled EV charger installers has grown rapidly. For electricians and career changers alike, this is one of the most promising and future-proof areas of e lectrical work.
But how do you actually become an EV charger installer? What qualifications are required? And how do you make sure your work meets the legal and safety standards of BS 7671 and the Building Regulations?
This guide breaks it down step by step.
Why EV Installation Is a Growing Opportunity
As more people switch to electric vehicles, the need for reliable, qualified installers is soaring. Homeowners and businesses across the UK are looking for safe, efficient ways to charge their vehicles — and they want certified professionals to carry out the work.
Government data suggests there are already over 1.6 million plug-in vehicles on UK roads, a figure set to multiply before 2030. Combine that with national targets for public charging i nfrastructure and the growing adoption of home EV chargers, and it’s clear: this is one of the fastest-growing specialisms in the electrical industry.
Becoming qualified in this area not only expands your career options but also aligns you with the shift towards low-carbon technologies and sustainable transport.
For context on how electrical safety law supports this new market, see Health and Safety Law – Lesson 2.
What an EV Charger Installation Involves
A typical home installation includes connecting a dedicated charging point to a property’s electrical supply, ensuring it’s safe, efficient, and compliant with BS 7671.
Most chargers are installed on a new, dedicated circuit, protected by an RCD Type A or equivalent device. The system must also account for load management, earthing arrangements, and protection against open PEN conductors (as outlined in Section 722 of BS 7671).
While a domestic EV charger may seem straightforward, it requires solid understanding of i nspection, testing, and circuit design. Incorrect installation can lead to overheating, RCD tripping, or even electric shock risks — which is why only competent electricians should carry out the work.
Who Can Install EV Chargers?
To legally install and sign off an EV charger, you must be a qualified electrician who meets the competency standards set out by your Part P registration body (for example, NICEIC or NAPIT).
You should be able to:
- Apply the current edition of BS 7671 Wiring Regulations.
- Carry out testing, inspection, and certification correctly.
- Understand Part P of the Building Regulations and what counts as “notifiable work.”
- Demonstrate experience working safely on single-phase domestic circuits.
If you’re already a registered electrician, you can legally install and sign off EV charge points, provided your registration covers domestic work. It’s still recommended to complete an EV charger installation course, as it provides technical knowledge, hands-on training, and updates on new standards and technologies.
What If You’re Not Yet Qualified?
If you don’t have electrical experience or Part P registration, you’ll need to complete an electrical qualification first. This ensures you’re competent to handle domestic wiring safely before you specialise in EV work.
There are several routes to achieve this:
- NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation (2357) – the standard qualification route for electricians.
- Domestic Installer Course – a structured, fast-track route for new entrants.
- Apprenticeships – combining classroom and on-site learning over several years.
Once you’re competent in single-phase domestic work, you can progress to an EV charger installation qualification, such as the City & Guilds 2921-31 (EV Charging Equipment Installation).
For more on maintaining safe working conditions and personal protection during training and installation, review Personal Protective Equipment – Lesson 6.
Understanding Part P and Notifiable Work
EV charger installations fall under Notifiable Work in Part P of the Building Regulations because they involve new circuits and high-current devices. This means that the installation must be certified by a registered electrician who is a member of a Part P Scheme Provider such as NICEIC, ELECSA, or NAPIT.
If you’re not registered yourself, you’ll have to notify your local authority’s building control department, which can be costly and time-consuming. Joining a Part P scheme gives you the ability to self-certify your work — an essential step for anyone planning to install EV chargers regularly.
To understand how these regulations fit within UK safety law, see Health and Safety Law – Lesson 3.
The Role of the EV Charge Point Course
Completing a dedicated EV installation course is highly recommended even for experienced electricians. These courses cover:
- The IET Code of Practice for EV Charging Equipment Installation.
- Circuit design and load calculation.
- Earthing and protective devices for EV applications.
- Practical installation techniques and testing procedures.
- How to interpret manufacturer instructions and safety documentation.
Most courses also include an assessment and qualification at the end, proving your competence to clients and Part P providers alike.
Becoming a Government-Approved EV Installer
Once you’re qualified and registered, you can choose to become part of the EV Chargepoint Grant Scheme (previously known as OLEV). This allows installers to claim up to £350 per charge point on behalf of eligible domestic and commercial customers.
You don’t need to join the scheme to carry out installations, but it can make your services more competitive — especially for homeowners looking to offset costs.
Remember, only certain charger types and properties are eligible, so always check the latest government guidance before applying.
Safety and Compliance: Why Competence Matters
EV installations demand the same care and professionalism as any other electrical work. Because chargers connect directly to a property’s main supply and are often used outdoors, the risks from poor installation can be severe.
Key safety considerations include:
- Ensuring correct earthing arrangements and fault protection.
- Using surge protection devices where required.
- Checking voltage drop, cable sizing, and RCD operation.
- Avoiding tripping hazards from trailing leads or incorrect positioning.
Installers must also stay up to date with new editions of BS 7671 and any changes to the IET Code of Practice. Continuous professional development is part of being a responsible, competent electrician.
For a reminder on maintaining personal and site safety standards, visit PPE and Workplace Safety – Lesson 7.
Cost of Entry and Earning Potential
The investment in training pays off quickly. EV charger installation can generate significant income for both sole traders and established electrical firms.
Typical installation costs range from £700 to £1,200 per unit, depending on location, property type, and cable run. With the right marketing and partnerships, even one installation per week can substantially boost annual turnover.
Many electricians also expand into commercial EV installations, working with car parks, offices, and local councils — all of which require large-scale infrastructure projects.
Futureproofing Your Electrical Career
The transition to electric vehicles is one of the most significant industrial shifts of the 21st century. By becoming an EV charger installer, you’re positioning yourself at the forefront of the UK’s green economy — combining environmental progress with practical, in-demand skills.
The demand for qualified installers is set to grow for decades. Those who act early will benefit from experience, reputation, and recurring opportunities as public and private charging networks expand.
Becoming a certified EV charger installer isn’t just about learning a new skill — it’s about embracing the future of the electrical trade. With the right qualifications, registration, and safety knowledge, you can confidently deliver installations that meet both client expectations and UK standards.
Elec Training is a City & Guilds-approved electrical training centre based in Wolverhampton, serving learners from Birmingham and across the wider West Midlands. Our team helps new and experienced electricians gain the skills and confidence to install EV charge points safely and professionally.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards EV installation work, explore Elec Training’s full range of electrical courses at https://elec.training/.
FAQs
What qualifications do I need to become an EV charger installer in the UK?
To become an EV charger installer, you must first be a qualified electrician with core qualifications such as the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation or equivalent, and registration with a Part P competent person scheme like NICEIC or NAPIT. Additionally, specialized training in EV charging is required, such as the City & Guilds 2921-31 Level 3 Award in the Design and Installation of Domestic and Small Commercial Electric Vehicle Charging Installations. For government grant schemes, you need OZEV authorization, which involves providing company details and proof of membership in a competent person scheme or the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA). Some manufacturers offer brand-specific certifications, and experience in EV installations is advantageous.
Can I install EV chargers without being a fully qualified electrician?
No, you cannot legally or safely install EV chargers without being a fully qualified electrician. Installations require specialized knowledge of electrical systems, compliance with BS 7671 regulations, and certifications like City & Guilds 2921-31, along with registration under a Part P scheme. Attempting DIY or unqualified installations can violate building regulations, void warranties, and pose safety risks, potentially leading to fines over £5,000. While some maintenance might be handled by competent engineers under Electricity at Work Regulations, full installation demands electrician qualifications.
What is covered in the City & Guilds 2921-31 EV Charging Equipment Installation course?
The City & Guilds 2921-31 is a Level 3 Award focused on the design and installation of domestic and small commercial EV charging installations. It covers key requirements relating to EV charging equipment, different types and features of equipment, preparation for design and installation, and requirements for inspection, testing, commissioning, and handover of equipment and circuits. The course is structured as a single unit, equipping learners with skills to work safely in the EV sector, aligned with industry standards. Entry requires prior electrical qualifications like NVQ Level 3 or equivalent, achieved within the last 5 years or with evidence of CPD. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate recognized by ECS for gold card updates.
Do I need Part P registration to install domestic EV chargers?
Yes, Part P registration is required for installing domestic EV chargers to ensure compliance with Building Regulations, covering electrical safety (Part P) and infrastructure requirements (Part S). You must be registered with a competent person scheme like NICEIC or NAPIT, and installations often need notification to local authorities or self-certification. This applies to new circuits for EV points, and failure to comply can result in non-compliance issues.
How does the EV Chargepoint Grant Scheme work for installers?
The EV Chargepoint Grant Scheme provides subsidies for EV chargepoint installations, with installers needing OZEV authorization to claim grants on behalf of eligible customers. Eligibility requires using approved chargepoint models, and grants cover up to 75% of costs (max £350 per socket) for renters, flat owners, on-street parking households, businesses, and landlords. The process involves quoting, confirming customer eligibility, installing, and submitting claims via the OZEV portal with photos, invoices, and details; OZEV pays successful claims directly to installers. Separate schemes like Workplace Charging offer up to £350 per socket for up to 40 sockets.
What safety regulations apply to EV charger installations under BS 7671?
Under BS 7671 Section 722 (Electric Vehicle Charging Installations), key regulations include earthing arrangements like TT systems or direct PME connections with balanced loading to limit voltage rise to 70V rms in open PEN conditions. Requirements cover risks from simultaneous contact, electrode separation from PME metalwork, and use of open PEN detection devices that monitor
voltages and prevent re-closure on hazards. Installations must adhere to BS EN 61851 standards, include RCD protection, surge protection devices, and comply with IET Code of Practice for safe cabling and testing.
How long does it take to train and qualify as an EV installer?
EV-specific training, such as the City & Guilds 2921-31 course, typically takes 2-3 days for qualified electricians. However, becoming a fully qualified electrician first (e.g., NVQ Level 3) can take 2-4 years through apprenticeships or courses. Additional
steps like OZEV authorization and Part P registration add a few weeks, with overall qualification depending on prior experience.
What tools or equipment do I need to start EV charger installation work?
Essential tools include a voltage tester, multimeter, cable strippers, power drill, conduit benders, level, measuring tape, and circuit analyzer for testing. You’ll also need appropriate cabling (e.g., sized for 32A circuits), RCDs, surge protection devices, and personal protective equipment (PPE) like insulated gloves and safety glasses. For complex installs, a dedicated EV consumer unit and CT clamps may be required.
How much can electricians typically earn from EV charger installations?
Electricians specializing in EV installations can earn an average salary of around £34,500 per year, or about £17.69 per hour. Offering EV services can add an extra £12,000 annually through premium rates and increased job variety. Salaries range from £28,000-£38,000 depending on experience and location, with roles like prep technicians offering sign-on bonuses. Commercial or high-volume installs can yield higher profits, such as £2.38-£4.76 net per hour per charger at certain rates.
Is EV charger installation a good long-term career path in the electrical industry?
Yes, EV charger installation is a strong long-term career path due to growing demand from EV adoption, government incentives, and the UK’s net-zero goals. It offers future-proof skills, higher earnings potential, job variety, and opportunities in residential, commercial, and public sectors. With specialized training, it enhances employability, though success depends on market saturation and ancillary work like EICRs.
