FMCSA, NHTSA seeking public input on automated driving systems

DOT agencies consider revising regulatory barriers associated with ADS vehicles

Posted May 24, 2019

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are seeking public input on automated driving system (ADS) vehicles.

FMCSA and NHTSA issued advance notices of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking comments on the removal of unnecessary regulatory barriers as ADS vehicles increase in prominence.

FMCSA is exploring how the regulatory rules can account for differences between human operation and ADS in the following areas:

Requirements of human drivers,
CDL endorsements,
Hours-of-service rules,
Medical qualifications,
Distracted driving,
Safe driving,
Inspections,
Repair and maintenance,
Roadside inspections, and
Cybersecurity.

NHTSA is seeking comments on potential regulatory barriers to the deployment of ADS vehicles posed by certain existing Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).

Both notices will have a 60-day comment period upon formal publication in the Federal Register. Comments will be accepted at the Federal eRulemaking Portal for Docket Nos. FMCSA-2018-0037 or at NHTSA-2019-0036.

J. J. Keller's FMCSA Compliance Manual helps companies operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) comply with DOT regulations.

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