Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous car share services are also known as "robotaxis", or "driverless vehicles". This option offers customers the unique experience of mobility without a human driver by utilizing the latest in mobility technologies to facilitate efficiency and sustainability in the transportation ecosystem. 

Interior view of a vehicle without a human driver with images of computerized cars floating open_in_full

Regulatory agencies

The City of Sacramento does not issue permits or have regulatory authority over autonomous vehicle (AV) service providers. All permits and regulations are under the authority of the State of California. 

FAQs

As autonomous vehicles are relatively new to Sacramento, these questions and answers may be updated to reflect the most current information. 

Question Answer
Are AVs allowed in Sacramento?Only operators with authorization from the DMV for deployment and testing allowed to travel on Sacramento streets. 

As of November 2025, Waymo has authorization from the DMV and is awaiting authorization from the CPUC to offer services to the public or charge ride fares. 
Can I order a ride in an AV in Sacramento?Passenger services are not yet authorized for any AV operator in the city limits.

Service providers approved by the DMV may only deploy vehicles to perform testing on the road.

Additional authorization must be issued by the CPUC for any operator to carry passengers or charge ride fares. 
When will AV services be available?Operators may offer service upon authorization from the CPUC to carry passengers and charge fares. 
How do I report an AV  operator that is in my area without authorization?Please check under the DMV section of this page to view the list of authorized deployment areas for each operator.

Any deployment violations may be reported by clicking on the "Report incidents" link under the same section.  
How do I report traffic violations caused by AVs? All violations are managed by the CPUC. Please use the "File a complaint" link under the CPUC section on this page. 
When did the City of Sacramento authorize AV deployment in the region?The City of Sacramento has no authorization over the deployment, permits, or operations of AV operator services. All authorizations are managed by the State of California. 
What operators are authorized to deploy AVs and where? Please check under the DMV section of this page to view the list of authorized deployment areas for each operator.
What measures are taken during emergency situations? VEH section 38751  requires operators to coordinate with local emergency response officials regarding access to the vehicles and removal from the emergency area.

AVs should yield in response to emergency vehicles traveling with lights and sirens (Code 3)  in accordance with the CA vehicle code.  

AV operators are responsible for providing safety measures for passengers in the event of a malfunction or unexpected situation during the ride. 

Department of Motor Vehicles

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (CA DMV) issues permits and regulates the testing, deployment, and vehicle licensing of AV on public roadways.

CA DMV is finalizing an update to the regulations regarding testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles (AV). 

These regulations propose to: 

  • Improve data reporting requirements for light-duty vehicles
  • Incorporate legislation from AB-1777 (2024)
  • Improve emergency service response with local agencies
  • Create procedures for reporting potential non-compliance with traffic regulations

Submitting public comments

The following periods are offered by the DMV for public comment on the draft regulations: 

  • April 25, 2025 - June 9, 2025 (45 days) 
  • December 3, 2025 - December 18, 2025 (15 days) 
  • January 21, 2026 - February 5, 2026 (15 days) 

The current public comment period will end February 5, 2026.

California Public Utilities Commission

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issues permits and regulates ride-hail service providers operating AVs.

Ride-hail operators may not transport members of the public or charge transportation fares without authorization by the CPUC.

As of June 16, 2023, the CPUC is the official State agency managing all transportation complaints of transportation network companies, autonomous vehicles, airport shuttles, limosine operators, and charter bus companies.

Seal of the California Public Utilities Commission open_in_full

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