DMV Lays Out Rules Governing Self-Driving Car Tests

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - The Department of Motor Vehicles announced Tuesday it has created rules governing how self-driving or autonomous cars are tested by manufacturers on California roads. These new rules could open the door for more of these types of vehicles finding their way into local neighborhoods.

The rules cover vehicle testing, insurance, registration and reporting, according to a statement issued by the DMV on Tuesday.

Under the rules, manufacturers must provide proof the vehicle being tested was successfully tested under controlled conditions. And anyone who gets behind the wheel of one of one of these vehicles must first complete a training program.

Rules state that while the vehicle is moving, the driver must be in the driver's seat and be able to take over, if needed.

The manufacturer must have a $5 million insurance or surety bond. And any incident involving an accident or an incident where the driverless technology disengages has to be immediately reported to the DMV.

The full set of rules can be found here.

The rules go into effect on September 16, 2014. Rules for governing the public operation of autonomous vehicles are being developed by the agency and could be adopted by January 1, 2015, according to the department.

The mandate to develop testing regulations was set forth SB 1298, and come after public workshops were held and draft regulations were made available for the public to view.

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