Nevada leads U.S. states in regulating self-driving cars, having pioneered autonomous vehicle laws since 2011 via Assembly Bill 511, which authorizes testing and operation on public roads under Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversight.​
Self-Driving Car Regulations
Nevada permits Levels 3-5 autonomous vehicles without issuing permits based on automation level; manufacturers self-certify compliance, and the DMV issues certificates after review. Vehicles must be licensed, registered, carry $5 million in insurance, include human override capabilities, and meet safety standards. Senate Bill 395 (effective October 1, 2025, expiring 2035) adds restrictions: heavy trucks (>26,000 lbs GVWR), multi-axle vehicles, or those carrying 8+ passengers require a trained human operator with a commercial driver’s license seated and ready to take manual control.​
Drone Regulations
Nevada regulates drones primarily through federal FAA rules for airspace, with state laws focusing on privacy, weapon bans, and restricted operations near critical infrastructure like prisons or airports. Local ordinances in areas like Las Vegas govern commercial drone use, requiring permits for filming or deliveries, but no comprehensive statewide drone-specific autonomy framework mirrors self-driving car rules. Drones must comply with Nevada Revised Statutes prohibiting reckless operation or surveillance without consent.
Key Comparison
| Technology | Regulation Level | Human Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Driving Cars | Advanced; Levels 3-5 allowed | Varies by vehicle type (SB395) ​ |
| Drones | FAA-dominant; state privacy focus | None for most recreational ​ |
Nevada actively regulates self-driving cars with evolving safety mandates while drones follow lighter state oversight atop federal standards; check DMV for permits and FAA for drones.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Session/83rd2025/Bills/SB/SB395.pdf)
[2](https://www.corenalaw.com/legal-procedures/nevada-self-driving-laws/)
[3](https://www.halo-attorneys.com/self-driving-cars/new-rules-of-the-road.html)
[4](https://www.egletlaw.com/reality-of-autonomous-vehicles/)
[5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulation_of_self-driving_cars)
