SELF DRIVE Act of 2026

The SELF DRIVE Act of 2026 would create the first comprehensive federal framework for regulating vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (self-driving technology). If enacted, the bill would expand the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's authority to develop new safety standards for these vehicles, require manufacturers to develop detailed safety plans demonstrating their vehicles will not pose unreasonable accident risks, and establish a National Automated Vehicle Safety Data Repository to collect crash information from manufacturers. The legislation would also allow limited commercial testing of autonomous vehicles, including freight operations, while still under development. Additionally, the bill would establish a single federal standard for autonomous vehicles, superseding varying state-level rules. The bill aims to improve road safety, enhance mobility and accessibility, maintain U.S. leadership in autonomous vehicle technology, and support job creation in the automotive sector. However, the bill currently faces opposition from trucking industry groups concerned about safety standards and regulatory transparency, particularly regarding the operation of autonomous heavy-duty trucks. The bill is currently under committee consideration and has not yet been voted on by the full House.