Zoox wins NHTSA exemption to charge for 2,500 robotaxis annually

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration granted Zoox a temporary exemption on July 30, 2026, allowing the Amazon-owned company to charge passengers for rides in its custom-built robotaxis. The decision, published in the federal register, clears one of the last regulatory hurdles for Zoox to launch a commercial service.

Zoox’s vehicles lack traditional controls such as steering wheels and pedals, so the exemption covers eight Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, including requirements for windshield defrosting and light vehicle braking systems.

A previous exemption had permitted Zoox to demonstrate its robotaxis on public roads and offer free rides in cities like San Francisco and Las Vegas, but charging customers was not allowed.

Under the new exemption, the company can operate a commercial fleet of up to 2,500 vehicles annually for two years. NHTSA described the oversight structure as enhanced and adaptable, capable of evolving with the technology.

The announcement was part of a broader set of autonomous vehicle updates. NHTSA is revising its exemption process to let automakers temporarily sell a limited number of non-compliant vehicles, primarily for testing new technologies. The agency is also partnering with SAE Industry Technologies Consortia on a three-year, $5 million project to gather data and accelerate the creation of AV performance standards, aiming for a single national benchmark for safety.

NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison said the agency supports safe AV development and is taking a balanced approach by removing unnecessary barriers, developing guidance and providing oversight.

Additionally, the agency disclosed it is reviewing an exemption application from Los Angeles-based startup Robomart for its low-speed driverless delivery vehicle, which can carry up to 500 pounds of goods. A separate notice seeking public comment will be published after the initial evaluation.

A Zoox spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside California working hours.