Google subsidiary Waymo has received California regulatory clearance to expand autonomous vehicle testing across significantly larger portions of the state. The authorization permits driverless operations throughout most of the Bay Area, stretching from Sacramento south through wine country and much of the East Bay, while Southern California approval extends from Santa Clarita to San Diego.
The company already operates robotaxis in San Francisco, parts of Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta. Additional permits will be required before transporting fare-paying passengers in newly authorized zones. Waymo announced plans to launch commercial service in San Diego by mid-2026 while pursuing expansion into eleven additional American cities.
Recent company milestones have featured removing safety drivers in Miami, initiating freeway trips in three metropolitan areas, and announcing entry into Minneapolis, New Orleans, and Tampa markets.
The company already operates robotaxis in San Francisco, parts of Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta. Additional permits will be required before transporting fare-paying passengers in newly authorized zones. Waymo announced plans to launch commercial service in San Diego by mid-2026 while pursuing expansion into eleven additional American cities.
Recent company milestones have featured removing safety drivers in Miami, initiating freeway trips in three metropolitan areas, and announcing entry into Minneapolis, New Orleans, and Tampa markets.
