Are self-driving cars exempt from driver's license requirements in California?

In California, self-driving cars are not completely exempt from driver's license requirements. Although the technology for autonomous vehicles is advancing and there are scenarios where these cars can operate without a human driver, current regulations mandate that a licensed driver must be present in certain situations, particularly when operating the vehicle on public roads. This presence is crucial for ensuring safety and accountability, as the technology is still being tested and perfected. The requirement exists to ensure that a qualified person can take control of the vehicle if necessary.

Testing phases might allow some exemptions or special permissions; however, this does not negate the overall requirement for a licensed driver to be available in non-testing environments. Thus, the correct answer reflects the importance of human oversight in the operation of self-driving cars on public roads in California.