DOTProposed Rule

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Framework for Automated Driving System Safety

TransportationTechnology

Summary

This proposed rule would establish the first comprehensive federal motor vehicle safety standards specifically designed for vehicles equipped with automated driving systems operating at SAE Levels 3 through 5. The proposed framework addresses occupant protection in vehicles without traditional manual controls, minimum performance requirements for ADS perception and decision-making systems, and cybersecurity standards for connected autonomous vehicles.

Key Points

  • 1Establishes minimum performance standards for ADS perception, planning, and fallback systems
  • 2Creates new occupant protection requirements for vehicles without steering wheels or pedals
  • 3Mandates cybersecurity protections and over-the-air update integrity verification
  • 4Requires a minimum 5-year operational data recording and reporting obligation
  • 5Proposes a phased compliance timeline of 3 years for new vehicle types

Key Dates

Published

April 14, 2025

Comment Deadline

October 14, 2025

Related Executive Orders

View on The Executive Order Digest

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.