What breaker does
an EV charger need?
125% of the charging amps
Breaker = charging amps x 1.25. The National Electrical Code (NFPA 70, Article 625) treats EV charging as a continuous load, so the circuit has to be rated for 125% of what the charger draws. A 48A charger needs a 60A breaker. A 40A charger needs 50A.
Amps, breaker, speedSpeed shown for a Model Y Long Range AWD.
| Charging | Breaker | Power | Miles / hr |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16A | 20A | 3.8 kW | 13 mi |
| 24A | 30A | 5.8 kW | 19 mi |
| 32A | 40A | 7.7 kW | 25 mi |
| 40A | 50A | 9.6 kW | 31 mi |
| 48A | 60A | 11.5 kW | 38 mi |
Panel space comes first. A 60A circuit is a big ask for an older 100A panel. If yours is tight, a charger set to 32A or 40A, or one with load management, can avoid a panel upgrade. Most hardwired chargers, including the ChargePoint and Emporia picks below, let the installer set the current to match the breaker.
Who decides. Your electrician and local code do, not this page. Wire size depends on distance and conduit, and many towns want a permit. Use the table to ask for the right quote.
More guides
Electricity: residential average, July 2026, EIA Electric Power Monthly Table 5.6.A. Gas: regular retail, week of Oct 12, 2026, EIA weekly retail gasoline by area. Efficiency: EPA combined kWh per 100 miles, which already includes charging losses, from fueleconomy.gov. Monthly figures use 1,000 miles.
Home charger picks
Charge it at home
Home charging is how you get the prices on this page. These are the three Level 2 chargers I'd buy, Amazon prices from Oct 19, 2026.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices as of Oct 19, 2026.
Compare all three on one page