Regulations for Testing Autonomous Vehicles in California

Abstract

Technological systems designed to assist drivers are becoming more common in vehicles today. As these systems become more advanced, vehicles will be able to execute routine driving maneuvers and eventually perform all driving tasks. In September 2012, California passed a law to allow these advanced, or autonomous, vehicles to be tested and operated on its public roadways. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is tasked with developing regulations pursuant to the law. Regulations governing the automobile manufacturers’ testing of these vehicles have been completed, and the salient provisions are discussed in this paper.