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      The state is also contemplating revisions to its existing light-duty autonomous vehicle regulations.

      April 28, 2025, at 19:51

      by Stephen Rivers

      California is looking to revise its autonomous vehicle regulations to enhance and broaden testing standards.

      The new rules may permit heavy-duty trucks to trial fully autonomous systems on California roads.

      Light-duty testers will be subject to more rigorous data reporting obligations and updated validation procedures.

      California has decided to revise its autonomous vehicle (AV) regulations. If the proposed changes pass in their current form, it will enable AV companies to test heavy-duty trucks in the state. Additionally, all self-driving vehicle testers will be required to submit increased data to the state. This shift coincides with the Trump administration's efforts to facilitate the road use of vehicles from companies like Tesla.

      The California DMV has been developing autonomous vehicle regulations for nearly a decade. These rules have undergone several revisions, and the latest updates appear to be comparatively moderate and progressive. While the state has been known for permitting companies such as Waymo to test driverless taxis, it has yet to authorize testing for large trucks, which may soon change.

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      A significant aspect of the new proposal is the allowance for semi-trucks and other heavy-duty self-driving vehicles, defined as those exceeding 10,001 pounds, to start testing in California. They must obtain a DMV-approved permit similar to what light-duty AVs require and complete at least 500,000 miles of testing. Furthermore, these vehicles would be restricted to designated highways.

      Regulators noted that heavy-duty autonomous vehicles are already undergoing testing in states like Arkansas, Texas, and Arizona, indicating that California is attempting to catch up.

      However, this is not the only proposed modification. Light-duty self-driving vehicles, such as Waymo's taxi and Tesla's upcoming Cybercab, would need to first secure a permit to conduct tests with a safety driver present. Following that, they would apply for additional driverless testing permits as they progress through each validation phase. In total, they would be required to complete 50,000 miles of testing. The regulations would also enhance the frequency and scope of reporting from AV manufacturers to the government.

      Autonomous trucks aren't limited to Texas! We are turning our attention to California and preparing our self-driving technology for the most challenging situations drivers encounter on highways. Learn more about our plans for safer roads in the Golden State: https://t.co/9Aj6TJ2JEd pic.twitter.com/Pm9s6tDfZj— Aurora (@aurora_inno) August 27, 2024

      In a statement to CNBC, a representative from the California DMV remarked that the proposed regulations “provide the nation’s most comprehensive rules for the operation of autonomous vehicles and highlight the DMV’s dedication to enhancing public safety, encouraging innovation, and establishing a solid framework for AV technology testing and deployment.”

      This development occurs amid changes by the Trump administration regarding federal regulations related to crash reporting for autonomous vehicles. The unveiling of the proposed regulations marks the beginning of a 45-day period where the public and private entities can provide feedback on the proposal. A public hearing is scheduled for June 10 to discuss the matter further.