The global regulatory framework for automated driving has reached a major milestone as the UNECE World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29) adopted the world’s first international regulation for fully driverless Automated Driving Systems (ADS) on June 24, 2026. The new framework establishes harmonised safety requirements and a common methodology for validating ADS-equipped vehicles, providing an important foundation for the safe deployment of fully automated vehicles across international markets.

Built around a safety-case approach and a comprehensive Safety Management System, the regulation requires manufacturers to demonstrate that their automated driving systems do not pose an unreasonable safety risk. It also introduces requirements for credible testing, including the use of validated virtual testing environments, continuous in-service monitoring and reporting, and the implementation of Data Storage Systems for Automated Driving to support safety oversight throughout a vehicle’s operational lifetime.

A key principle of the regulation is that Automated Driving Systems must achieve a level of safety at least equivalent to that of a competent human driver. Manufacturers will therefore need to provide robust evidence through simulation, proving-ground testing and real-world trials that their systems can safely perform the complete Dynamic Driving Task (i.e., handle all tactical and operational driving tasks such as steering, accelerating, decelerating, lighting, signalling, etc.) while complying with applicable traffic rules.

The new framework is designed to accommodate a wide range of automated driving applications, from motorway operations to complex urban environments, while ensuring consistent safety requirements across participating markets. By establishing internationally harmonised rules, the regulation aims to avoid fragmented national approaches, providing greater regulatory certainty for manufacturers and increased confidence for public authorities and road users.

Alongside the new ADS regulation, WP.29 also adopted amendments to around ninety existing UN vehicle regulations to ensure they remain applicable to vehicles equipped with automated driving systems, including future vehicle designs that may no longer feature traditional driver controls.

The regulation has been endorsed by major automotive markets including Canada, China, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, marking a significant step towards the global deployment of fully driverless vehicles under a common regulatory framework. It is expected to enter into force in approximately one month.

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Source: Read the original press release here.