Public utility regulator the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in the US has proposed a new rule to authorise transportation companies to conduct pilot programmes on providing public rides.

The regulation, if adopted in voting meeting scheduled next month, will allow the companies permitted to operate by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and under the CPUC’s jurisdiction to provide the service.

The rules proposed by DMV allowing for autonomous vehicle driverless testing on roads became effective last week.

Under the proposed regulations, the first pilot programme will allow companies to provide passenger service with a trained driver in the autonomous vehicle, while the second pilot programme can be provided using driverless autonomous vehicles which fulfil necessary DMV requirements.

The proposal intends to authorise Transportation Charter-Party Carrier (TCP) permit-holders to provide the service, if they hold an ‘Autonomous Vehicle Tester Program Manufacturer’s Testing Permit’ issued by the DMV.

“The service can be provided only by those who have been in DMV-permitted driverless operation on California roads for a minimum of 90 days.”

It will allow the TCP permit-holders to provide autonomous vehicle service to customers when a driver is present in the vehicle.

The proposal will also enable them to operate autonomous vehicles without a driver in the vehicle, subject to certain restrictions.

The service can be provided only by those who have been in DMV-permitted driverless operation on California roads for a minimum of 90 days.

All entities who intend to participate in the pilot programme cannot seek compensation from the passengers while providing the service.

If the proposal is approved by the Commissioners, CPUC will start working on the programme to allow companies to provide a compensated passenger service using autonomous vehicles.