Feds Loosen Rules on Self-Driving Trucks – But California Ain’t Havin’ It

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Introduction

The NHTSA just revised its guidelines for autonomous vehicles (AVs)—a move that could fast-track self-driving trucks on American highways. But California? They’re saying, “Not so fast, robo-rig.” They just passed a law requiring a human driver in the seat, even if the truck is fully automated.

So what does that mean for the road warriors out there? Let’s run it down before the robots run us over.

The Big Shift – What NHTSA Just Did

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) updated its Autonomous Vehicle Framework, making key changes:

Less regulatory red tape – AV developers now face fewer pre-launch hurdles.

Streamlined crash reporting – Simplified how autonomous vehicle incidents are logged and investigated.

Focus on flexibility – Letting companies innovate faster without constantly seeking new approvals.

Basically, Uncle Sam is saying: “Let the tech play ball, just tell us when something breaks.”

But California Clapped Back

Not everyone’s onboard. The Golden State passed a rule that says:

Every autonomous truck must still have a human driver onboard.

This applies to trucks over 10,001 lbs.—so yeah, we’re talkin’ about the big rigs, not your robot pizza delivery van.

It’s California’s way of saying: “Cool tech, bro. But we still want a CDL holder up front.”

Why It Matters – The Trucker Perspective

Here’s how it hits the folks who actually roll the wheels:

Mixed signals – Feds say "go faster," states say "pump the brakes."

Job fears continue – Drivers are already worried about being replaced, and this just added fuel to the fire.

Training & transition questions – If AVs go mainstream, what happens to CDL schools and dispatch roles?

It’s progress for the tech world. But for drivers? It’s one more reason to keep one eye on the road and one on the news.

Multiple Viewpoints – Who's Happy, Who’s

Heated?

The Innovators:
Tech companies like Waymo, Aurora, and TuSimple love this. Faster deployment, less regulation, and more room to test across states.

The Unions:
Groups like the Teamsters are pushing back hard—warning of job losses and safety concerns if the shift moves too fast.

California Lawmakers:
They’re siding with caution. Their stance? "We support innovation, but not at the cost of safety or jobs."

Truckers:
Some see it as inevitable. Others say, “You can’t program instinct and experience.”

Reality Check – Is Full Automation Really Close?

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves:

AV trucks are still in testing mode – Especially in tough terrains, urban areas, and during weather extremes.

Human backup is still standard – Most “driverless” tests still have someone behind the wheel, just in case.

Widespread rollout is years away – Even with federal support, full-scale deployment ain’t happening overnight.

So no, Skynet’s not replacing your Peterbilt tomorrow. But it’s inching closer—one line of code at a time.

Bottom Line – Tech Is Fast, but Truckers Are Still Essential

This ain’t just a tech update—it’s a wake-up call. Drivers are the heartbeat of the freight world. AVs might one day ride alongside, but they’re a long way from replacing what real drivers bring to the table.

California’s pushback proves that not everyone’s ready to hand over the wheel. And maybe that’s a good thing.

Call to Action

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Because the only thing worse than a robot taking your job… is not having a backup plan when it does.