UK lays regulations for automated passenger services

The UK government has laid regulations allowing automated passenger-carrying vehicles to operate on public roads, opening a licensing route for driverless services this spring. The Department for Transport published its response to the automated passenger services (APS) permitting scheme consultation on 23 April 2026, implementing a core provision of the Automated Vehicles Act 2024.

The scheme sets out legal responsibilities, safety requirements and regulatory powers for operators. Permits will only be issued to services meeting stringent safety standards, and live deployments will be independently assessed, monitored and enforced.

Following consultation, the statutory instrument was amended to broaden data sharing, allowing non-safety-related information to be shared with emergency responders. The change is intended to help emergency services respond to incidents involving permitted APS vehicles.

A new non-statutory APS Accessibility Advisory Panel will be established to guide inclusion considerations. The government said automated services have the potential to widen travel options and increase independence for disabled people and older passengers.

The scheme also aims to attract private investment and support job creation in UK self-driving capability. The response and regulations will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament and published on GOV.UK.

Source:GOV.UK