When can the white wire in a cable be connected to a switch without identification?

The white wire in a cable can be connected to a switch without identification when it is used for the supply to the switch. In residential electrical systems, the white wire typically indicates a neutral conductor. However, when the white wire is repurposed as a hot wire to feed power to a switch, it can be connected to the switch without additional marking, as it serves a specific function in that context.

In these scenarios, it is important that the installation follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. When a white wire is used as a hot wire, it is often recommended to mark it with tape or a marker to indicate its use, but technically it can be used for the supply as outlined in specific situations. This practice is typically done with a three-way switch setup or in configurations where it is essential for the white wire to convey power temporarily.

Other contexts, such as three-way switch installations or grounding practices, have specific identification requirements and guidelines dictated by electrical codes, but the focus here is on the main function of the white wire when it is used as a hot conductor in a switched application.