The California Department of Motor Vehicles proposed new rules for testing and deploying autonomous vehicles, according to an April 25 press release.
The framework is focused on light- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The proposed framework would allow heavy-duty AVs weighing 10,001 pounds or more to be tested with a DMV-approved permit.
Other proposed terms include updated regulation to refine light-duty AVs, enhancing data reporting requirements and implementing legislative changes from AB 1777 (Chapter 682, Statutes of 2024). Updates to AB 1777 includes updated protocols for AV interaction with first responders and a new procedure on how law enforcement reports potential non-compliance with traffic regulations by AVs.
Applications submitted after the regulations are implemented will follow a phased AV testing and deployment permit process, the agency said
“Subsequent phases require obtaining a Driverless Testing Permit and a Deployment Permit after completion of the required test miles and submission of a report detailing the testing conducted,” the DMV said.
The agency said such steps ensure manufacturers meet stringent safety requirements through a comprehensive process that is tailored to each manufacturer’s technology and operational environment.
The California DMV is accepting public comments from April 23 to June 9, followed by a public hearing for additional input on the proposed regulations.
California has taken a different approach to driverless trucking than most other states.
In late September, California Gov. Gavin Newsom for the second time rejected legislation requiring a human operator in heavy-duty autonomous vehicles. At the time, the governor claimed the bill would prohibit the operation of AVs over 10,000 pounds.
The California DMV suggested the weight limit could change in last year’s draft regulations, and the latest framework may signal a more lenient stance on heavy-duty AVs.
