California DMV Opens Public Comment on Updated Autonomous Vehicle Testing Rules
On December 3, 2025, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that it is seeking public feedback on revised regulations governing autonomous vehicles. The proposed rules, which build on draft regulations released last spring, would let heavy ‑duty truck manufacturers apply for permits to test and deploy driverless technology on California’s public roadways while updating requirements for light‑duty autonomous vehicles. A 15‑day public comment period opened the same day and will run through December 18, 2025, giving industry groups, safety advocates, labor organizations and members of the public an opportunity to weigh in.
The DMV and state officials say the updated rules reflect the wide range of feedback received during the 45‑day comment period earlier this year. California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin noted that the state wants to remain a hub for innovation while making sure safety is at the center of every decision: "These updated draft regulations put safety first at every step, and I want to thank our DMV team and Governor [Gavin] Newsom for the steadfast leadership in advancing a thoughtful, inclusive approach to emerging transportation technologies." The focus on safety was echoed by the DMV’s Office of Public Affairs, which said the agency will continue to engage experts and community members as the rules evolve.
Key changes in the proposed regulations include more than just expanding testing to larger vehicles. For heavy‑duty autonomous vehicles, the proposed rules outline a framework for permitting and deployment. Companies would be required to submit safety cases and could be subject to review by independent third‑party experts. The proposal also clarifies that medium‑duty autonomous commercial motor vehicles—those weighing under 14,001 pounds and designed to carry no more than 15 passengers—may operate on public roads when partnering with public entities or universities.
Other notable revisions replace traditional disengagement reports with monthly and quarterly reporting of Dynamic Driving Task (DDT) system failures, ensuring the DMV receives more useful data on how autonomous systems behave on the road. The rules also specify how an Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Noncompliance Notice must be displayed, allow law enforcement to mail notices to manufacturers, and require companies to submit notice details within 72 hours. Language related to autonomous vehicle indicators and emergency geofence responses has been aligned with state statute to avoid ambiguities.
Stakeholders can review the revised regulations on the DMV’s Autonomous Vehicles webpage and submit written comments by emailing [email protected] before the December 18 deadline. After the comment period closes, the DMV will consider additional feedback and may further modify the regulations before adopting a final version.
While the regulatory process moves forward, the DMV reminds customers that many everyday transactions—such as driver’s license renewals and vehicle registration—can be completed online without visiting an office. The agency encourages Californians to create a MyDMV account and opt for paperless renewal notices.
The public comment period represents a critical step in shaping how autonomous vehicles will operate on California roads in the coming years. By inviting public input on safety requirements, data reporting and operational limits, the DMV hopes to balance technological innovation with public safety and transparency.