Preparing Your EV Charging Site for Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

If your organization operates commercial EV chargers in California, certification under AB 2037 is no longer optional—it's a legal requirement. Whether you're managing a corporate campus, multifamily housing complex, retail center, or public charging network, understanding how to prepare for certification ensures a smooth process and keeps your site compliant.

Step 1: Assess Your Charging Infrastructure

Before contacting an RSA, conduct an internal audit of your charging equipment:

Questions to Answer:

How many chargers do you operate?

What are the power ratings (kW) of each charger?

When was each charger installed?

Has any charger been serviced or modified since installation?

Do you have documentation of charger models and serial numbers?

Why This Matters:

Recently serviced chargers may need recertification, and chargers that have been modified may require additional testing. Understanding your complete charging infrastructure ensures a smooth certification process.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

Collect all relevant documentation for your charging site:

**Equipment Specifications**: Charger models, power ratings, installation dates

**Electrical Drawings**: Site electrical schematics showing charger connections

**Maintenance Records**: Any service, repair, or modification records

**Installation Records**: Original installation documentation if available

**Billing Records**: If you charge customers for electricity, billing system documentation

Step 3: Ensure Site Access and Safety

Prepare your site for the RSA technician's visit:

**Schedule Access**: Coordinate a time when the technician can safely access all chargers

**Clear Obstructions**: Ensure chargers are accessible and not blocked by vehicles or equipment

**Electrical Safety**: Verify that your electrical infrastructure is safe and properly grounded

**Safety Equipment**: Ensure appropriate safety signage is in place around chargers

**Parking**: Arrange parking for the technician's vehicle

Step 4: Contact a Registered Service Agency

Once your site is prepared, contact an RSA to schedule certification. ChargeScale EV serves Northern California, including the Bay Area, Central Valley, Sacramento, Monterey, and Sierra regions.

Step 5: Prepare for the Certification Visit

On the day of certification, ensure:

**Site Preparation**: All chargers are accessible and powered on

**Personnel**: Have a site representative available to answer questions

**Electrical Access**: Ensure the technician can access electrical panels if needed

**Documentation**: Have all gathered documentation available for review

**Vehicles**: Have test vehicles available if the RSA needs to perform load testing

Step 6: Receive Certification Documentation

After successful testing, the RSA will provide:

**Certification Report**: Official documentation of all tested chargers and results

**Tamper-Evident Seals**: Applied to each certified charger

**Compliance Certificate**: Proof of compliance with AB 2037

**Maintenance Recommendations**: Suggestions for ongoing care and maintenance

Step 7: Maintain Ongoing Compliance

Certification is not a one-time event. To maintain compliance:

Periodic Recertification:

Schedule recertification following significant repairs or modifications

Recertify on the interval established by your county sealer (typically a two-year cycle)

Provide updated documentation of any maintenance or repairs

Ensure all chargers remain sealed and unmodified

Maintenance and Repairs:

If a charger requires service, notify your RSA

After repairs, the charger must be recertified before returning to service

Keep detailed records of all maintenance

The Bottom Line

AB 2037 certification is a straightforward process when you're prepared. By following these steps, you'll ensure your charging infrastructure meets California's standards, protects your customers, and demonstrates your commitment to regulatory compliance. For organizations in Northern California, ChargeScale EV is ready to guide you through every step of the certification process.

Ready to Ensure Compliance?

If you're unsure whether your chargers have been certified or whether a placed-in-service report was filed, ChargeScale EV can review your site and documentation. We provide RSA certification and compliance services across Northern California. Contact us to schedule a site assessment.