Is Tesla full self-driving legal?

Is Tesla Full Self-Driving Legal? A Nuance Beyond the Name

The name “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) attached to Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) has created considerable confusion about its capabilities and legality. While the name suggests autonomous driving, the reality is far more nuanced. FSD, like Tesla’s Autopilot, is not legal for fully autonomous operation anywhere. It remains a driver-assistance system, requiring constant driver supervision and intervention.

The legality of FSD isn’t a simple yes or no. It hinges on understanding the difference between what the system is and what its name implies. Legally, FSD falls under the category of Level 2 autonomy, meaning the driver must remain engaged and ready to take control at all times. This contrasts sharply with the popular perception of “full self-driving” as a truly autonomous system where the human driver is merely a passenger.

While Tesla continues to develop and refine its FSD software, pushing towards higher levels of autonomy, the current legal landscape doesn’t recognize it as such. Regulations surrounding autonomous vehicles vary by jurisdiction, but generally, any system requiring driver supervision is not considered truly self-driving. Therefore, using FSD as if it were a fully autonomous system is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous.

The ambiguity surrounding FSD’s capabilities stems from the name itself. “Full Self-Driving” creates an expectation of autonomous operation that the technology doesn’t currently deliver. This has led to concerns about driver overreliance and complacency, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Critics argue that the name is misleading and contributes to a misunderstanding of the system’s limitations.

Several jurisdictions are scrutinizing Tesla’s marketing of FSD, investigating whether the name constitutes false advertising. Regulators are concerned that the term “Full Self-Driving” misrepresents the system’s capabilities and could lead drivers to believe they can relinquish control of the vehicle, putting themselves and others at risk.

The bottom line is this: while Tesla’s FSD offers advanced driver-assistance features, it is not a fully autonomous driving system. Using it legally and safely requires constant driver attention and readiness to take control. The name “Full Self-Driving” should not be interpreted literally, and drivers must understand the limitations of the system to avoid dangerous situations. The future of fully autonomous driving is still evolving, and while Tesla plays a significant role in this evolution, its current FSD offering remains firmly within the realm of driver assistance, not autonomous operation.