Tesla will get first in a sequence of permits it must run robotaxis in California

Tesla on Tuesday obtained the first in a sequence of approvals from California required for the electrical automobile maker to ultimately launch a promised robotaxi service within the state, in accordance with a state regulator.

The California Public Utilities Fee (CPUC) stated it permitted Tesla’s utility for a transportation charter-party service allow(TCP), a license usually related to chauffeur-operated providers, permitting the corporate to personal and management a fleet of autos and transport staff on pre-arranged journeys.

The allow is a prerequisite for making use of to function an autonomous ride-hailing service in California, however a CPUC spokesperson stated the present allow “doesn’t authorize them to offer rides” in autonomous autos, and doesn’t enable Tesla to function a ride-hailing service to the general public.

With gross sales development slowing, Tesla CEO Elon Musk pivoted his focus final 12 months to rolling out robotaxis and has promised driverless ride-hailing providers to the general public in California and Texas this 12 months. In October, Tesla revealed the Cybercab, a robotaxi idea that had no steering wheel or management pedals.

Tesla had utilized for the TCP allow in November 2024, the regulator stated in an e-mail, including that the corporate had not utilized for the opposite permits but.

Tesla would additionally want permits from the California Division of Motor Autos (DMV) and CPUC with a purpose to function a completely autonomous robotaxi service that expenses clients.

Tesla at the moment solely has a DMV allow to check autonomous autos with a security driver.

A DMV spokesperson stated on Tuesday that Tesla has not utilized for any further permits from the company, which might be required to maneuver ahead with a CPUC utility for driverless taxis.

Tesla didn’t reply to requests for feedback on the allow and particulars on the opposite functions.