I have a panel in my garage for my garage based workshop.
I want to run a 220 volt circuit (have have the capacity in the panel to do so).
My question is whether I need to run the wire inside conduit or can I run romex without conduit.
The wire will be behind drywall the entire way so it will not be exposed at all.
If I need conduit does it have to run all the way from my panel to the outlet box?
Thanks,
Jeff

Romex cable is fine, as long as it is not exposed where it can be damaged. Be sure to be careful where it runs through bored holes in the framing. If the cable through holes in wood framing is closer than an 1-1/4" to the edge, use the metal protector nail plates made for protecting cables and plumbing pipes, to prevent any nalis or screws from piercing the cable.

Does it matter if the romex is "free" (not attached to the studs) behind the drywall?
The drywall is already in place and I don't plan on attaching the romex in any way (just running it loose).
Thanks again.
Jeff

If you are snaking behind a finished wall, you do not need to worry about supporting at all.

Anywhere exposed , it must be supported every 4.5 feet, usually with the correct size cable staples.

It will be snaked entirely behind finished wall.
Thanks for the help.
Jeff