When driving ground rods, how much of the rod should remain above ground?

When driving ground rods, it is generally recommended that a minimum of 6 inches of the rod remain above ground. This guideline ensures that there is sufficient exposed surface area for accessible grounding connections and for maintenance purposes. A rod that is too low may also risk being covered over time by soil or vegetation, making it difficult to verify proper grounding. Additionally, having 6 inches above ground allows for easier visual inspection to ensure that the grounding system remains functional and meets safety standards. This standard is part of safe electrical practices to minimize the risk of equipment failure or electrical shock hazards.