NHTSA Ditches Gear Shift Rules for Wheel-Free Self-Driving Cars
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
NHTSA wants to update a safety rule to help self-driving cars that don’t have steering wheels or gear shifts. They’re proposing to remove the need for a gear position display in these automated vehicles, cutting costs without hurting safety. If you have thoughts, speak up by April 15, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Remove Shift-Position Display Requirement
NHTSA proposes to amend FMVSS No. 102 (S3.1.4.3) to except vehicles without manually operated driving controls from the transmission shift position display requirement. Manufacturers of ADS-equipped vehicles designed without steering wheels or other manual controls could remove that display to reduce regulatory compliance costs, and NHTSA states the change would not affect vehicle safety.
Possible Immediate Effective Date
NHTSA proposes that, if finalized, the amendment could be effective immediately and asks whether the rule could be effective in less than 180 days or upon publication of the final rule. The agency cites statutory timing rules (180 days and 30 days) but notes it may grant a shorter effective date because the change would relieve a restriction.
RFA Certification: No Significant Small-Entity Impact
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, NHTSA certifies that this proposed rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency states this finding is based on removing an unnecessary display requirement for ADS-equipped vehicles without manual controls.
Potential Preemption of State Requirements
NHTSA notes that FMVSS standards can preempt non-identical State motor vehicle equipment requirements and asks whether any State laws require transmission shift position displays for ADS vehicles without manual controls. If adopted, the amendment could preempt conflicting State rules for the same aspect of vehicle performance.
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