Which states allow driverless trucks? Currently, 5 states allow fully driverless trucks, including Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Florida, and California.
Some other states may have limited forms of driverless trucks, but they are only acceptable under certain conditions. If you have been injured by a driverless truck, an Arlington truck accident lawyer may be able to help.
Texas Has Become a Major Hub for Driverless Trucking
Texas is widely considered one of the leading states for autonomous trucking operations and allowing driverless trucks. Given its extensive highway system and strong freight economy, it is an ideal environment for testing and deploying driverless trucks.
Autonomous vehicles are generally permitted in Texas as long as they meet standard vehicle and safety requirements. This has encouraged several major autonomous trucking companies to establish routes and operations throughout the state.
While driverless trucks must undergo rigorous testing before becoming street-legal, issues may still arise that could lead to accidents and serious injuries. If you have been the victim of an accident with a driverless truck, speak to an Arlington car accident lawyer to help better understand your rights.
Arizona Allows Autonomous Trucks on Public Roads
Arizona has taken an aggressive approach toward supporting autonomous vehicle technology. State officials have actively encouraged testing and commercial deployment of self-driving vehicles. Some ways this has been supported include:
- Favorable autonomous vehicle regulations
- Strong support for technology companies in the state, allowing driverless trucks
- Weather and road conditions that support testing
Arizona laws have helped to make it one of the most autonomous-vehicle-friendly states in the country. Per A.R.S. § 28-9702, vehicles must comply with applicable state and federal regulations, but most functions can be performed remotely, including interactions with officers and vehicle operation should the autonomous functions fail.
Nevada Was One of the First States to Approve Autonomous Vehicles
Nevada played a major role in the early development of autonomous vehicle laws. It was among the first states to authorize testing for self-driving vehicles on public roads. Before valid registration is granted, vehicles must undergo testing as outlined in NRS 482A. Once this has been successfully completed, self-driving vehicles are subject to the same laws as other vehicles on the road.
Nevada continues to allow autonomous truck testing and operation under state regulations. The state remains an important location for long-distance autonomous freight testing, making it a pivotal state to allow driverless trucking.
Nevada’s early support helped influence how other states approached autonomous trucking laws. As early adopters, they showcased a proof of concept, allowing larger states to begin pursuing more relaxed regulations.
Florida Allows Driverless Trucks Under Autonomous Vehicle Laws
Florida is considered one of the more autonomous-vehicle-friendly states in the country. State law allows autonomous vehicles, including commercial trucks, to operate on public roads as long as they comply with applicable safety and federal regulations.
Florida has actively updated its laws over the years to support the development and commercial use of autonomous vehicles (Florida Statutes § 316.85). The state has become a common location for testing and deployment because of its transportation infrastructure, freight activity, and relatively flexible regulatory environment.
Despite Florida’s support for autonomous trucking, legal and regulatory debates are still ongoing. Recent legislative proposals have attempted to impose additional requirements on autonomous commercial delivery vehicles. This includes requirements that human operators be present in certain autonomous trucks, and whether or not these pass remains to be seen.
California Allows Autonomous Vehicles but Has Stricter Truck Rules
California permits autonomous vehicle testing, but regulations for heavy commercial trucks have historically been more restrictive than in other states such as Texas or Arizona. That said, they are still among some of the first states to allow driverless trucks on the road.
State regulators have taken a more cautious approach to fully driverless heavy-duty trucks due to safety and infrastructure concerns; however, as of April 2026, California’s autonomous vehicle regulations have been updated to allow more flexibility for driverless vehicles.
Despite stricter oversight, California remains one of the most influential states in autonomous vehicle development. Whether due to its size or the high-tech companies of Silicon Valley, it is one of the first states to allow driverless trucks.
Not All States Have Clear Laws on Driverless Trucks Yet
While more states are expected to allow driverless trucks in the future, many still lack comprehensive laws specifically addressing autonomous commercial trucks. Over 20 states allow some form of driverless vehicle, but regulations can be much tighter, limiting which types of vehicles can realistically be used.
Changes are happening rapidly, though. There is intense competition among states for technology investment and freight business, which may be a strong motivator for state governments to allow more driverless trucks.
The more technology evolves, the more confident states become in testing and utilizing driverless vehicles, particularly commercial trucks. While this is viewed positively by many, it comes with risks, including risks to other drivers on the road.
Supporters Believe Driverless Trucks Could Transform Freight Transportation, While Critics Raise Concerns About Safety and Liability
Advocates argue that autonomous trucking could solve several major industry problems. This could include labor shortages and increasing shipping demands. Additionally, it may increase efficiency, reduce delivery delays, and lower transportation costs over time.
While supporters feel they have a strong argument, liability remains a major concern. If an accident occurs, it can be difficult to discern who is liable: the manufacturer, the trucking company, the IT company, the state for allowing the vehicles on the road, or a combination of these.
While these trucks must follow proper safety protocols, they are not without incident. If you have been injured in an accident with an autonomous truck, you could be entitled to compensation. An Arlington personal injury lawyer may be able to help.
The Texas Law Dog Is Here for You
An injury involving a driverless vehicle can be catastrophic, and you deserve justice. At The Texas Law Dog, we are here to fight for you.
Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation to get started. At The Texas Law Dog, we don’t just bark, we bite.
