Based on the 2020 NEC. Underlined text indicates a Code change.
Q. What identification is required by the NEC for neutral conductors?
See answer below.
A. Section 200.6 of the 2020 NEC outlines the identification requirements for grounded conductors.
200.6(A) 6 AWG or Smaller
Neutral conductors 6 AWG and smaller must be identified by any of the following means (Figure):
(1) Insulated conductors with a continuous white outer finish.
(2) Insulated conductors with a continuous gray outer finish.
(3) Insulated conductors with three continuous white or gray stripes along its entire length on other than green insulation.
(4) Insulated conductors with their outer covering finished to show a white or gray color but have colored tracer threads in the braid identifying the source of manufacture.
Author comment: The use of white tape, paint, or other methods of identification is not permitted for neutral conductors 6 AWG and smaller.
200.6(B) 4 AWG or Larger
Neutral conductors 4 AWG or larger must be identified by any of the following means:
(1) A continuous white outer finish along their entire length.
(2) A continuous gray outer finish along their entire length.
(3) Three continuous white or gray stripes along their length.
(4) White or gray tape or markings at the terminations.
200.6(E) Neutral Conductors of Multiconductor Cables
Insulated neutral conductor(s) sized 6 AWG and smaller in multiconductor cables must be identified by a continuous white or gray outer finish, or by three continuous white or gray stripes. Conductors in multiconductor cables sized 4 AWG or larger can have the neutral conductor identified in accordance with Sec. 200.6(B).
Exception No. 1: Conductors within multiconductor cables are permitted to be re-identified at their terminations at the time of installation by a distinctive white or gray marking.
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