Missouri maintains a permissive yet evolving framework for self-driving cars, allowing their operation on public roads under specific statutes while pending further legislative updates. Drone regulations in the state align closely with federal FAA rules, with limited state-level additions focused on privacy and public safety. These approaches balance innovation with liability concerns amid growing deployments like Waymo’s tests.​
Self-Driving Car Laws
Missouri permits fully autonomous vehicles via SB811, which requires them to handle all human driver tasks, proof of financial responsibility, and allows commercial uses like robotaxis without local taxes or extra rules. HB2271 defines automated vehicles, sets insurance guidelines, and shields manufacturers from liability in crashes, treating them like standard accidents where the operator bears responsibility. Recent 2026 legislative proposals like SB1050 and HB2069 aim to formalize fully driverless operations, spurred by Waymo’s St. Louis mapping efforts, though no outright bans exist.​
Drone Regulations
Missouri lacks comprehensive state-specific drone laws beyond federal FAA requirements, such as registration for drones over 0.55 pounds, remote ID compliance, and altitude limits under 400 feet. State rules emphasize privacy protections, prohibiting drones for surveillance without consent, and restrict flights near critical infrastructure like prisons or power plants. Local ordinances in cities like St. Louis may add no-fly zones over events or parks, but enforcement relies heavily on FAA guidelines for recreational and commercial use.​
Key Gaps and Trends
Missouri’s framework lags behind states like California in testing mandates but supports deployment without human drivers if insured, creating liability uncertainties for accidents. Federal efforts, including the SELF DRIVE Act, could preempt state variations by easing production caps for non-traditional vehicles. Drones face fewer state hurdles, prioritizing federal compliance amid rising urban integration concerns.​
