California DMV Adopts Regulations for Large Driverless Trucks

California DMV Approves Rules for Autonomous Trucks

The California Department of Motor Vehicles adopted regulations on May 8, 2026, that permit autonomous vehicle manufacturers to test and operate driverless trucks weighing 10,000 pounds or more on state roadways, according to Safety+Health Magazine. These rules, some of which took effect immediately, override a previous ban on large driverless trucks and open the California market to AV freight operations as stated in a DMV press release. The regulations also establish protocols for permits, remote operator requirements, and enforcement to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Key Requirements for AV Manufacturers

Autonomous vehicle manufacturers must use a safety driver during initial testing phases before progressing to fully driverless operations, as outlined in the new rules. They are required to complete 500,000 miles of testing at each phase prior to applying for commercial deployment and must submit a “structured safety case” demonstrating the safety of their AV operations, hardware, and software. Heavy driverless trucks must adhere to applicable state and federal requirements for commercial motor vehicles, including stopping at California Highway Patrol weigh stations, and manufacturers must maintain two-way communication to respond to first responder calls within 30 seconds.

Opposition from Unions and Officials

Teamsters California Co-Chairs Peter Finn and Victor Mineros described the regulations as “reckless” in their statement and vowed legal action to protect driver jobs and road safety, arguing that such changes should be handled through the legislature for greater transparency. California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed bills in 2023 and 2024 that would have prohibited large driverless trucks on state roads, reflecting ongoing debates over AV technology. Rep. Ro Khanna expressed support for the Teamsters in an April 30, 2026, post on X, indicating potential legislative pushback.

Implications for Safety and Compliance

DMV Director Steve Gordon stated in the press release that these updates demonstrate California’s leadership in AV technology while enhancing public safety and accountability for manufacturers, according to Safety+Health Magazine. As widely known in the transportation sector, autonomous vehicles represent a growing trend in logistics, but these regulations add specific enforcement measures like subjecting manufacturers to moving violations. This development highlights the balance between innovation and regulatory oversight in the AV industry.