Waymo

Waymo Receives New York City’s First Autonomous Vehicle Testing Permit

New York City has granted Waymo its inaugural autonomous vehicle testing permit, marking a significant milestone in the deployment of self-driving technology in one of America’s most challenging urban environments. The announcement, made by Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez on August 22, 2025, represents the first time the city has authorized autonomous vehicle testing within its boundaries. The permit allows Waymo to deploy up to eight Jaguar I-Pace vehicles in designated areas of Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn through late September 2025. Under New York State law, each vehicle must maintain a trained safety specialist in the driver’s seat at all times, prepared to assume control when necessary. After the initial pilot period concludes, Waymo may