California Approves Rules Allowing Automakers to Test, Deploy Heavy-Duty Autonomous Vehicles

The new rules would also expand safety and oversight requirements for all classes of autonomous vehicles.

Traffic moves along the 405 Freeway in Los Angeles on Feb. 13, 2026. Apu Gomes/Getty Images

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on April 28 approved new regulations that would allow autonomous vehicle (AV) makers to test and deploy heavy-duty AV technology on California roadways.

The California DMV said manufacturers are required to test their vehicles with a safety driver, then progress to driverless testing, before they can apply for deployment on state roads.