Waymo Gets First California OK for Driverless Testing Without Backup Driver

Waymo Gets First California OK for Driverless Testing Without Backup Driver
Credit Waymo
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WASHINGTON—Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo unit on Oct. 30 became the first company to receive a permit from the state of California to test driverless vehicles without a backup driver in the front seat, the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles said.

California said Waymo can use about three dozen test vehicles without drivers behind the wheel in Santa Clara County, part of the greater technology hub of Silicon Valley.