New York City has taken its first official step into autonomous vehicle testing, launching a tightly regulated pilot program that will allow self-driving cars on select streets in Manhattan and Brooklyn under strict safety guidelines.
Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced on Aug. 22 that the city has granted its first permit to Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., which has logged over 10 million autonomous rides in five U.S. cities.
Though Waymo is the initial participant, city officials emphasized that any future applicants will be held to the same rigorous standards.
“As autonomous vehicle technology expands across the country, DOT has put in place comprehensive safety guidelines to ensure safe, responsible testing on our city’s streets,” said Rodriguez in a statement. “These requirements will help ensure that the development of this technology is focused, first and foremost, on the safety of everyone who shares our busy city streets.”
The city’s program requires that all AVs have a trained safety specialist behind the wheel at all times and mandates strict compliance with cybersecurity standards, data reporting, and coordination with DOT officials.
The pilot allows up to eight vehicles to operate in limited areas of Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn through September 2025. After the pilot testing period, Waymo will have the opportunity to apply for an extension to its pilot testing period.
While testing is now underway, city rules continue to prohibit the use of autonomous vehicles for for-hire services. Any company interested in offering commercial AV rides must comply with regulations from the Taxi and Limousine Commission, including licensing requirements.
Transportation advocates and lawmakers welcomed the pilot as a cautious yet meaningful advancement.
“We’re a tech-friendly administration and we’re always looking for innovative ways to safely move our city forward,” said Mayor Adams. “New York City is proud to welcome this new technology as part of our broader efforts to implement responsible innovation.”
“This is the type of measured innovation that allows us to prepare for the future while making sure progress works for New Yorkers,” said State Assemblymember Brian Cunningham.
Following the initial pilot period, the city may consider extending testing or expanding its scope, pending review of performance and safety data.
