Compliance Averts Suspension
Tesla will avoid a 30-day suspension of its dealer and manufacturer licenses in California after complying with a state order to discontinue the term 'Autopilot' in vehicle marketing, according to state regulators on Tuesday.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) confirmed that Elon Musk's electric vehicle company took corrective measures, including halting 'Autopilot' usage and modifying 'Full Self-Driving' references to specify driver supervision is required.
The DMV is committed to safety throughout all California’s roadways and communities. The department is pleased that Tesla took the required action to remain in compliance with the State of California’s consumer protections.
Background on Violations
In December 2025, the DMV found Tesla violated state law by misleadingly marketing its electric vehicles using 'Autopilot' and 'Full Self-Driving,' along with phrases suggesting no driver action was needed for trips.
Vehicles could not, and still cannot, operate as fully autonomous at the time of those 2021 advertisements. The DMV filed accusations against Tesla's licenses in November 2023.
An administrative law judge proposed in November that 'Autopilot' breached state law, giving Tesla 60 days for correction to avoid suspension.
Tesla's Current Assistance Features
Tesla's Autopilot feature enables vehicles to match traffic speed and assist with steering within marked lanes.
The Full Self-Driving (Supervision) capability alerts drivers to stop signs and traffic lights, slowing or stopping the vehicle as needed, all requiring driver oversight.
