Weights and Measures Regulation

The California Division of Measurement Standards (CalDMS) is the agency charged with setting standards for measuring devices in the State of California. The agency sets technical standards that are then enforced by counties. This agency's goal is to ensure that 1) a measuring device is accurate, ensuring consumers are getting what they pay for, and 2) that there is equity among business competitors. You can read more about their work in the EV charging space here.

It is your responsibility as a station owner or operator to comply with all state and county regulations. Here is a summary of actions you may need to take depending on when your charger was installed and if/how you collect fees from drivers for charging services:

• All stations in California that charge a fee to drivers, regardless of installation date, should be registered with the local county. These regulations, with a few exceptions (see “Which EVSE will not be subject to the regulation?” here), impact stations that charge either a per kilowatt-hour or time-based fee. Contact your local county for registration forms and other info. You can be directed to your local County department’s webpage here.
• In addition:
  • Level 2 (or AC) stations that charge a fee and were installed on or after 1/1/21 must be “Placed in Service” by a Registered Service Agent.
  • DC Fast Chargers that charge a fee and were installed on or after 1/1/23 must be “Placed in Service” by a Registered Service Agent.

Registered Service Agents (“RSAs”) are certified by the State to test your station's measurement capabilities. They will field test and verify your station in accordance with State procedures, apply a sticker indicating your station's compliance, and notify the local county that it has been tested. If your station was installed on or after the dates listed above, please find an RSA who can help you complete the “Placed in Service” requirement in your area.

If you have questions about how to comply with these regulations, we suggest you contact your local county.

You can find a list of agents and agencies provided by the state here. You can also contact RSAReferrals@chargepoint.com for a list of ChargePoint’s recommended RSAs.

Each county will set its own cost for device registration. You can learn more about these costs here or on your local County’s website.

There is also an additional cost associated with the “Placed in Service” requirement. Contact a service provider (see: “How do I find a Registered Service Agent (RSA)?” above) to request a quote.

As a device and software manufacturer, ChargePoint has certified our products with the State of California. In order to ensure measuring devices such as EV charging stations meet minimum standards, CalDMS operates the California Type Evaluation Process. ChargePoint is responsible for obtaining CTEP approval for our products. CTEP Certificates for our commercial products are here:

• CT 4000: 5889-21
• CP 6000: 5912a-23
• CPE 250 and 280: 5934-23
• PL0001: 5953-23
• PL0002: 5938-23