Autonomous vehicles in California must meet specific safety standards and obtain permits for operation.

Starting January 1, 2030, autonomous vehicles with a model year of 2031 or later and a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 8,501 pounds must obtain a deployment permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to operate on public roads. The permit requires the manufacturer to submit an application with certifications that the autonomous technology meets safety standards and has been tested on public roads. The DMV may impose additional requirements for vehicles capable of operating without a driver present.

Autonomous vehicles in California must meet specific safety standards and obtain permits for operation.

Starting January 1, 2030, autonomous vehicles with a model year of 2031 or later and a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 8,501 pounds must obtain a deployment permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to operate on public roads. The permit requires the manufacturer to submit an application with certifications that the autonomous technology meets safety standards and has been tested on public roads. The DMV may impose additional requirements for vehicles capable of operating without a driver present.