Bill > HB1125

This bill establishes new regulations for the commercial operation of fully autonomous vehicles (vehicles designed to operate without a human driver, classified as Level 4 or 5 by SAE J3016 standards) in Virginia, requiring them to obtain an "autonomous operation license" from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before being used for transporting property or passengers for compensation. It defines key terms like "automated driving system" (the hardware and software enabling autonomous driving), "dynamic driving task" (DDT, all real-time driving functions), and "minimal risk condition" (a safe state a vehicle can reach if the DDT fails or the vehicle leaves its designated operating area). The bill mandates that these vehicles must be able to achieve a minimal risk condition in case of system failure and, if a human driver is present, issue a "request to intervene" (a notification for the human to take over). It also outlines requirements for remote operators, cybersecurity, and a law-enforcement interaction plan. Furthermore, it sets financial responsibility requirements, with autonomous vehicles needing at least $1 million in liability coverage, and prohibits local governments from banning or imposing additional requirements on fully autonomous vehicles, though they must still comply with existing local ordinances applicable to similar human-driven vehicles. The bill also establishes civil penalties of up to $1,000 per offense for violations and directs the DMV to convene a work group by November 1, 2026, to study and report on recommendations for regulating these vehicles.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB1125