Piloting of Self-Driving Vehicles
This page was last updated on 12th May 2026What is piloting:
The self-driving vehicle piloting scheme enables the use of automated vehicle (AV) technologies without a safety driver on roads in Great Britain. Certification of pilot deployments requires the assessment of the vehicle, its Automated Driving System, its operation and the passenger service, if applicable.
All pilot deployments are expected to meet the requirements as set out in the guidance for applicants for the Self-Driving Pilots Scheme, as outline for vehicles approval and registration, and for issuing a Vehicle Special Order and Vehicle Listing. Assessment for the VSO will cover the Automated Driving System Capability, Cyber Security and Software Updating, and Operational Management. If a deployment involves passenger services, the pilot deployment will also be expected to comply with the requirements in this guidance on Automated Passenger Service (APS) permits.
Piloting is distinct from the ‘trialling’ of automated vehicle technologies and services with a safety driver, which falls under the code of practice. Trialling of automated vehicle technologies requires a safety driver who is ready, able and willing to resume control of the vehicle.
More information about Listing can be found on the VCA’s Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS) page.
In advance of the submission of any application, we expect there to be significant pre-engagement between potential applicants and the VCA, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV).
You can check Self-driving vehicles listed for use in Great Britain on the GOV website.
If you have any questions in relation to the piloting scheme, please contact the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles using the DfT contact form.
If you have any questions in relation to vehicle approval routes for piloting scheme, please contact the Regulatory and Technology Group at RTG@vca.gov.uk.