EV Charger Installation Training Ontario: Pathways, Safety & Permits

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2025-07-23

An EV charging unit is located on a sidewalk by a garden.

Canada is ramping up its EV charging infrastructure meaning there will be increased demand for skilled electricians who can install charging stations. EV charger installation training in Ontario at Skilled Trades College of Canada (STC) provides a mix of theoretical and practical training that can equip you with the skills to safely install EV charging units.

With the Canadian government looking to add 40,000 EV charging stations nationwide by 2040, the demand for skilled electricians who can provide installation is growing. If you’re an aspiring electrician, diving into this niche can future-proof your career for years to come.

Installing these stations requires a particular skillset and knowledge, which EV charger installation training in Ontario provides. This post will examine how this training can give you the skills needed to thrive in the EV boom.

Why EV Charger Installation Training in Ontario is Worthwhile

A row of Tesla charge points and Tesla cars at a well-lit, nighttime parking lot.

Image Source: Unsplash

EV charging stations are no longer reserved to just the odd convenience store parking lot or upscale residence. Look at the growth of EV charger installations in the recent months and years as reported by Electric Autonomy Canada:

24.2% increase in public EV charging stations between March 2024 and March 2025 across Canada.
27,456 (of Canada’s 33,767 public charging ports) are Level-2 and DC fast chargers, indicating a better EV charging infrastructure is emerging.
27.8% growth of DC fast charging ports YoY (as of March 2025), totalling 6,309 units across Canada.

These numbers make it clear that the increase in EV charging stations isn’t an isolated trend. The demand for EV charging installation training is about to skyrocket.

Specialized Tasks for EV Charger Installation in Ontario

EV charger installation in Ontario requires a specialized approach to electrical work, compared to typical residential or commercial applications. This is due to the higher power, continuous loads, and more sophisticated technology associated with chargers.

Service Panel Assessment

During a service panel assessment, electricians ensure the existing electrical system can safely handle the additional load from an EV charger. This reduces the risk of panel failures and ensures homeowners and public facilities are protected against fires.

How it’s Done

Determine the amp rating of the main panel.
Verify the total connected and anticipated loads to factor in the new EV circuitry.
Check for spare breaker slots and physical space.

Load Calculations

Electricians conduct load calculations to ensure the EV charger doesn’t strain the electrical system or violate safety codes. This involves examining all power-consuming devices or appliances to confirm there’s sufficient capacity to accommodate an EV charging station on the main electrical panel.

How it’s Done

Use protocols such as the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) to conduct load calculations.
Add up all fixed appliances and general circuits.
Determine if the panel can safely handle the circuit (i.e., 240V) for a higher-level charger (Level 2, DC fast charger).

GFCI/AFCI Considerations

To prevent electric shocks and fires, electricians inspect GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) and AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters) to ensure they meet safety codes and can instantly shut off power if a ground fault or arc is detected.

How it’s Done

Install a GFCI breaker for all outdoor and garage chargers.
Verify compliance with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).

Your Path to EV Charging Installation Training in Ontario

An electrician in beige overalls and orange plaid shirt, holds exposed wires while wearing grey gloves.

Image Source: Unsplash

The road to adding more EV charging units in Ontario begins with training at STC. Begin with electrical fundamentals and advance to practical skills for EV-specific applications.

Step 1: Start With Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship

The Skilled Trades College of Canada offers an Electrician pre-apprenticeship that provides 60% hands-on training, immediately prepping you for electrical fieldwork and real-world applications. This 12-week course also includes training to work with heights, lockout/tagout procedures, and CPR/First Aid training.

Step 2: Apprentice and Certify (309A Construction & Maintenance Electrician)

After completing pre-apprenticeship, enrol in the 309A Construction & Maintenance Electrician apprentice course.
This full-apprenticeship serves as a deep dive into electrical work, combining theoretical knowledge with jobsite training, tool use, safety training modules, and more.

Step 3: Get Brand-Agnostic EVSE Vendor Training

Graduates from the apprenticeship can then transition into more specialized workshops or modules from Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) manufacturers, such as ChargePoint or EvoCharge.
Some EV charger vendors require electricians attain vendor-specific certifications to ensure qualified installation of their units.

Safety and Permits for EV Charger Installation

Undertaking EV charger installation training in Ontario also means becoming well-versed in safety protocols and standards for electrical work. More specifically, that means learning safety codes and acquiring necessary permits.

Safety: No Cutting Corners

Understand and follow Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) standards.
Comply with high-voltage installation protocols to reduce electrocution and fire hazards.
Use industry-certified equipment.

Permits: What You Need to Know

Electricians will need a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority (CEC compliant) to be qualified to install EV charger stations. Some municipalities may require a building permit if the installation impacts parking infrastructure, involves major trenching, or alters existing structures. Note that the installation of high-powered or DC fast chargers may require utility/service upgrade permits.

Super Charge Your Career as an EV-Ready Electrician

Ontario's push to reduce carbon emissions highlights the urgent need for a strong EV charging infrastructure, making electricians essential in building a reliable network for EV drivers. EV charger installation training at STC will provide you with the skills needed to install EV charging units. Gain qualifications to enhance Canada’s EV charger infrastructure and support a carbon-free future!

FAQs: EV Charger Installation Training Ontario

Electricians need a valid 309A license and must work under a Licensed Electrical Contractor registered with the Electrical Safety Authority. Additional required certification may include brand/vendor-specific certifications recognized by the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE).

In Ontario, EV chargers must be installed by a licensed electrician with a Certificate of Qualification (309A). Installers must also follow the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and, if contracting independently, hold an ECRA/ESA licence. Training through programs like the Skilled Trades College of Canada’s electrician pre-apprenticeship is the first step toward this certification and career path.

Conduct market research.
Choose the best location available.
Determine the cost.
Select the right charging station apparatus.
Hire licensed electricians for installation. EV chargers must be installed safely and in compliance with Ontario’s electrical code, so working with trained professionals is essential.
Obtain the needed permits and licences.
Install your EV charging units.
Promote your business.

To install an EV charger, you need a dedicated parking space and permission from the property owner. A strong Wi-Fi connection and adequate electrical capacity are essential. A licensed electrician must perform the installation to ensure safety and compliance with provincial standards.

Key Takeaways

EV charger installation training in Ontario is growing in importance as Canada works toward installing 40,000 charging stations by 2040.

Trainees learn critical day-one tasks, such as service panel assessments, load calculations, and GFCI/AFCI compliance to ensure safe EV charger setup.

The training pathway includes a pre-apprenticeship, a 309A electrician apprenticeship, and brand-agnostic EVSE vendor certifications.

Electricians must secure permits from the ESA and comply with Canadian Electrical Code standards to carry out safe, legal installations.

Properly trained professionals will meet market demand and help shape the future of Canada's clean energy infrastructure.

Interested in being part of Canada’s expanding EV charging infrastructure? Contact us today to learn more about our electrician apprenticeship programs and how it can prepare you for EV charger installation jobs!

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in 12 weeks

9,281+

LIVES CHANGED

12,481+

WIRES PULLED

12,481+ Wires Pulled - Skilled Trades College

85,382+

2X4'S CUT

85,382+ 2X4'S Cut - Skilled Trades College

9,756+

PIPES LAYED

9,281+

LIVES CHANGED

12,481+

WIRES PULLED

12,481+ Wires Pulled - Skilled Trades College

85,382+

2X4'S CUT

85,382+ 2X4'S Cut - Skilled Trades College

9,756+

PIPES LAYED

9,281+

LIVES CHANGED

12,481+

WIRES PULLED

12,481+ Wires Pulled - Skilled Trades College

85,382+

2X4'S CUT

85,382+ 2X4'S Cut - Skilled Trades College

9,756+

PIPES LAYED