Autonomous vehicles.
- Requires autonomous vehicles to display special marker lights when self-driving systems are engaged starting 2026.
- Mandates autonomous vehicles to store sensor data for 30 seconds before any collision for 3 years.
- Requires manufacturers to maintain $5 million in insurance coverage for autonomous vehicle testing.
- Establishes new safety standards requiring drivers to monitor and be ready to control autonomous vehicles.
Senator Archuleta's autonomous vehicle legislation establishes new requirements for visual indicators on self-driving cars operating in California, mandating that autonomous vehicles be equipped with standardized marker lamps starting January 1, 2026. These automated driving system (ADS) marker lamps must emit light signals when the vehicle's autonomous mode is engaged, following specifications set by SAE International standards.
The bill modifies existing vehicle lighting regulations to incorporate these ADS marker lamps while maintaining current safety standards. Manufacturers must ensure the lamps comply with established chromaticity requirements and recommended practices for ground vehicle lighting equipment. The legislation also preserves existing provisions requiring autonomous vehicle operators to maintain proper licensing and $5 million in insurance coverage during testing phases.
Under the new framework, the Department of Motor Vehicles retains authority to approve autonomous vehicle applications and adopt additional safety regulations through public rulemaking processes. The department may consult with the California Highway Patrol, academic institutions, and other technical experts when developing these standards. Manufacturers must continue providing certifications regarding their vehicles' safety mechanisms, engagement controls, and data recording capabilities before receiving operational approval.
 Tom LackeyR Assemblymember | Committee Member |  Not Contacted | |
 Cecilia Aguiar-CurryD Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted | |
 Bob ArchuletaD Senator | Bill Author | Not Contacted | |
 Laurie DaviesR Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted | |
 Chris WardD Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted |
Email the authors or create an email template to send to all relevant legislators.
Introduced By
Latest Voting History
| Ayes | Noes | NVR | Total | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 0 | 1 | 40 | PASS |
- Requires autonomous vehicles to display special marker lights when self-driving systems are engaged starting 2026.
- Mandates autonomous vehicles to store sensor data for 30 seconds before any collision for 3 years.
- Requires manufacturers to maintain $5 million in insurance coverage for autonomous vehicle testing.
- Establishes new safety standards requiring drivers to monitor and be ready to control autonomous vehicles.
Email the authors or create an email template to send to all relevant legislators.
Introduced By
Senator Archuleta's autonomous vehicle legislation establishes new requirements for visual indicators on self-driving cars operating in California, mandating that autonomous vehicles be equipped with standardized marker lamps starting January 1, 2026. These automated driving system (ADS) marker lamps must emit light signals when the vehicle's autonomous mode is engaged, following specifications set by SAE International standards.
The bill modifies existing vehicle lighting regulations to incorporate these ADS marker lamps while maintaining current safety standards. Manufacturers must ensure the lamps comply with established chromaticity requirements and recommended practices for ground vehicle lighting equipment. The legislation also preserves existing provisions requiring autonomous vehicle operators to maintain proper licensing and $5 million in insurance coverage during testing phases.
Under the new framework, the Department of Motor Vehicles retains authority to approve autonomous vehicle applications and adopt additional safety regulations through public rulemaking processes. The department may consult with the California Highway Patrol, academic institutions, and other technical experts when developing these standards. Manufacturers must continue providing certifications regarding their vehicles' safety mechanisms, engagement controls, and data recording capabilities before receiving operational approval.
Latest Voting History
| Ayes | Noes | NVR | Total | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 0 | 1 | 40 | PASS |
Tom LackeyR Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted | |
Cecilia Aguiar-CurryD Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted | |
Bob ArchuletaD Senator | Bill Author | Not Contacted | |
Laurie DaviesR Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted | |
Chris WardD Assemblymember | Committee Member | Not Contacted |