Autonomous vehicles - Georgia

Type of vehicles allowed

• Non-CMV: Yes
• CMV: Yes

Automation level allowed: SAE level 4-5

Testing only: No

Platooning: Yes. A “coordinated platoon” may travel in the same lane utilizing vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology to automatically coordinate the movement of such vehicles. The rule is codified as an exemption from the following-to-closely law and does not differentiate between vehicle classes.

Full operation: Yes. A “fully autonomous vehicle” means a motor vehicle equipped with an automated driving system (ADS) that has the capability to perform all aspects of the dynamic driving task (DDT) without a human driver within a limited or unlimited operational design domain (ODD) and will not at any time request that a driver assume any portion of the DDT when the ADS is operating within its ODD.

Permit required: Yes. Special permitting and licensing requirements exist for operation without a human driver. However, for testing entities there is no special testing permit, but the testing entity must maintain $1M in liability coverage per incident, adhere to all traffic laws, and have the ability to achieve a minimal risk condition in case of system failure.

Operational licenses: For commercial or personal use, AVs must be registered with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) (or registered as a fully autonomous vehicle by another state) and meet standard vehicle registration requirements.

• Georgia law designates the ADS as the legal driver, eliminating the need for a human license in a fully automated vehicle with the ADS engaged.
• Georgia DDS ensures manufacturers or operators meet all registration requirements prior to deployment.
• AVs must be titled, registered, and display a valid license plate.
• Manufacturers or operators must certify compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS).
• For commercial use, such as ride-hailing or freight transport, additional regulations apply.

Vehicle inspection requirements: Yes. Georgia Department of Public Services (DPS) enforces operational requirements, conducts inspections, and coordinates with law enforcement. Georgia DPS also ensures that self-driving systems comply with traffic regulations and maintain road safety.