The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is seeking input on draft regulatory language it says offers the most comprehensive standards for the operation of heavy-duty autonomous vehicles (AVs) weighing 10,001 pounds or more in the U.S. The draft regulations will also update existing rules for the testing and deployment of light-duty AVs on California’s public roads.
For the second year in a row, lawmakers in California last week successfully passed legislation that would ban driverless autonomous trucks from operating in the state. Last year’s attempt was vetoed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The legislation will once again make its way to his desk for a signature, but it’s unclear whether he has changed his stance in the last 12 months.
The draft regulations are designed with a focus on establishing safety standards. The framework initially requires a permit to test with a safety driver in the vehicle for both light- and heavy-duty operations. Subsequent phases require additional permits and approval, but the framework does allow for trucks to operate on roads where the posted speed limit is 50 mph and above, and on frontage access roads – “essentially allowing for long-haul deliveries along hub-to-hub routes and in less complex operational areas."
“The meticulous, phased-in approach we are taking in this rulemaking process is designed to yield the safest and most comprehensive regulations for autonomous vehicles," said DMV Director Steve Gordon.
Omitted from the draft are household movers, commercial vehicles used to transport passengers, oversize loads, hazardous materials, and bulk liquids requiring a tank endorsement.
The DMV is seeking input from the public and stakeholders through Oct. 14, which will be considered before the DMV begins the formal rulemaking process. The formal process will also include notice of proposed regulations and an opportunity for public comment.
“We encourage the public to participate in shaping these regulations to ensure that California remains at the forefront of innovation while keeping our roads safe,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “It’s time to take the next step and continue to responsibly advance technology that has the potential to not only enhance safe and sustainable transportation options but also to create new jobs and opportunities for workers within the evolving transportation sector.”
