Tesla's robotaxi ambitions in California face regulatory hurdles as the CPUC clarifies that autonomous vehicle testing and public transportation are prohibited without a human driver. While Tesla holds a permit for a private car service with drivers,

The CPUC confirmed Friday that Tesla has not applied for the necessary authorization to operate autonomous vehicles for public passenger service-paid or unpaid-in the state. The clarification comes in direct response to reports that Tesla planned to launch its robotaxi service in the Bay Area as early as this weekend.