California DMV seeks feedback on new heavy-duty autonomous vehicle regulations

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has released draft regulatory language outlining comprehensive standards for the operation of heavy-duty autonomous vehicles (AVs) weighing 10,001 pounds or more. The draft also updates existing rules for light-duty AV testing and deployment on public roads in California.

The proposed regulations are available on the DMV website and aim to establish high safety standards. The DMV is soliciting input from the public and stakeholders until October 14, 2024. Feedback will be considered before the formal rulemaking process begins, which will include notice of proposed regulations and an opportunity for public comment. The current draft is not a formal regulatory proposal.

These proposed regulations address both light-duty and heavy-duty AVs, highlighting California’s commitment to public safety, technological innovation, and creating a robust framework for AV technology testing and deployment.

The DMV encourages manufacturers; experts in autonomous vehicle technology; consumer, labor, and public interest groups; local governments; first responders; potential end-users of autonomous vehicle technology; and academic/research institutions to provide input on the proposed changes.

Input can be submitted via email to AutonomousVehicles@dmv.ca.gov by October 14, 2024. Submissions must include the commenter’s name and affiliation—anonymous comments will not be accepted. Commenters should avoid including sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers or financial account numbers. All received input will become part of the public record and may be publicly accessible.

The DMV emphasizes its commitment to public safety with a phased approach to regulating AV testing and use on California roadways. Regulations allowing testing of certain light-duty vehicles with a safety driver were implemented in 2014. Rules permitting driverless testing and deployment took effect in 2018, followed by approval for light-duty delivery vehicles under 10,001 pounds in 2019. Current regulations prohibit testing or deploying autonomous vehicles (SAE Level 3 and above) over this weight limit.

###