Wisconsin currently lacks comprehensive regulations for fully autonomous self-driving cars and drones, relying on existing traffic laws that require a human operator for vehicles and federal oversight for drones. A January 2026 Republican-backed bill proposes permitting driverless cars via a state safety board, mandating registration, insurance, and annual safety reports, but it remains unpassed. Drone operations fall under FAA rules with state additions for privacy and local restrictions, showing minimal proactive tech-specific controls.​
Self-Driving Car Status
Current law prohibits automated systems without a driver in the seat, blocking Level 4/5 autonomy on public roads; the proposed bill, developed with Tesla input, addresses this by creating a permit process while banning interstate use and tightening drunk driving rules for passengers. Challenges like snowy weather impair sensors, prompting safety concerns from experts, yet supporters highlight innovation potential amid federal NHTSA scrutiny of firms like Tesla. No enacted framework exists, leaving fault with owners/operators per DMV guidance.​
Drone Regulations
Drones require FAA registration over 0.55 pounds, with recreational flights below 400 feet and visual line-of-sight; Wisconsin adds restrictions near airports, prisons, and critical infrastructure, plus privacy laws against surveillance without consent. Commercial ops need Part 107 certification, while state bills for expanded beyond-visual-line-of-sight or delivery lag behind leaders like Florida. Local ordinances often fill gaps, limiting flights over events or parks.​
Regulatory Gaps
Wisconsin trails states like Arizona in AV testing permits and emphasizes human responsibility for tech malfunctions, hindering rapid deployment. The WAVE committee advises on integration, but legislative inertia persists amid safety and liability debates; drones face fewer hurdles via federal preemption. Future laws may evolve with national standards.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.wpr.org/news/proposal-seeks-driverless-self-driving-cars-wisconsin)
[2](https://www.facebook.com/wisconsinrapidstribune/posts/a-newly-introduced-bill-would-create-regulations-for-self-driving-cars-on-wiscon/1535800691387539/)
[3](https://www.pinnacleactuaries.com/article/illinois-and-wisconsin-prepare-legislation-future-fully-autonomous-vehicles)
[4](https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2025/12/31/new-bill-would-pave-the-way-for-autonomous-vehicles-in-wisconsin/87946318007/)
[5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1t6f922Lxw)
