Sacramento, California — California will begin allowing police to issue traffic violations to driverless vehicles starting July 1, under new rules aimed at increasing accountability for autonomous technology.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles announced the regulations following a 2024 law expanding oversight of self-driving cars. Instead of ticketing a human driver, officers will issue a “Notice of AV Noncompliance” directly to the vehicle’s manufacturer when violations occur.
The rules also require companies to move autonomous vehicles during emergencies and strengthen safety oversight as the technology becomes more widespread. Officials say the changes respond to growing public concerns after several high-profile incidents involving stalled or malfunctioning vehicles.
Autonomous services, including those operated by Waymo, are already active in major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. State data shows nearly 1,000 reports of autonomous vehicle collisions since 2014, along with incidents involving illegal maneuvers and vehicles obstructing traffic.
Supporters argue the new rules strike a balance between innovation and safety, while critics say more regulation may be needed as the technology expands.
The updated framework also increases testing requirements and mandates more detailed safety reporting from companies, reinforcing California’s position as a leading regulator of autonomous vehicle development.
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