Tesla has not yet applied for the necessary driverless robotaxi permits with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
State records indicate the automaker has logged zero autonomous test miles in California for six consecutive years. This lack of testing data prevents the company from obtaining the permits required for driverless ride-hailing operations.
The regulatory inactivity contradicts CEO Elon Musk’s repeated public assertions that the service is months away from launching.
California represents the largest automotive market in the United States. Investors view the state’s approval as a critical component of Tesla’s long-term strategy and a vital future revenue stream.