Autonomous vehicles: Self-certification for testing in Washington state
Starting January 1, 2023, vehicle registrations allow the removal of your address. New registrations have your address located on the bottom. There's a dotted line showing where to cut it. This is optional and intended to provide address privacy in case of theft.
Who needs to self-certify?
You must self-certify if your company:
- Conducts,
- Tests, or
- Operates autonomous vehicles on the roads of Washington state must self-certify.
How to self-certify
Before starting a pilot program, submit a Self-certification form to confirm you are compliant with the following.
Testing with human operators present
- Only a trained employee, contractor, or other person authorized by your company can operate or monitor the vehicles.
- You must monitor vehicles.
- An operator must have the ability to direct the vehicle’s movement when it needs assistance.
- Anyone operating an autonomous vehicle needs a valid U.S. driver license.
- Companies must report to local law enforcement in advance of testing.
- You must have proof of insurance.
Testing without human operators present
- You must equip vehicles with an automated driving system. It must performs all driving tasks on a part or full-time basis within their operational design limits. Vehicles must also be able to make it to a safe condition in the event of a system failure.
- Vehicles must follow all relevant Washington state motor vehicle laws.
- Companies must report to local law enforcement in advance of testing.
- You must have proof of insurance.
Insurance requirements
- Companies must have an umbrella liability policy of not less than $5,000,000 per occurrence.
- Companies must submit the Certificate of Insurance that shows they meet this rule.
Collision and Moving Violation Reporting Requirements
If you are self-certified, you must submit an Autonomous Vehicles Collision Report by February 1st every year.
Self-certified companies
- NVIDIA Corporation
- Waymo LLC
- Zoox, Inc
Related information
- Autonomous Vehicle Work Group (wstc.wa.gov)
- Autonomous Vehicle Testing & Technology in Washington State and Autonomous Vehicle Work Group
- RCW 46.92.010: Testing—Self-certification pilot program
- RCW 46.30.020: Liability insurance or other financial responsibility required
Questions? Need help?
Email us: autonomousvehicles@dol.wa.gov
