Waymo Ceases Robotaxi Testing in New York City

Robotaxi company Waymo ceased testing its autonomous vehicle fleet in New York City after two permits from the New York City Department of Transportation and the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles expired on March 31, 2026. The program launched in July 2025 with eight vehicles operating across Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn, but faced increasing political and labor resistance.

Governor Kathy Hochul shifted her position in February, removing funding for Waymo's planned expansion into upstate cities from the state budget. Mayor Zohran Mamdani also expressed hesitation regarding permit renewals, emphasizing the need to protect the livelihoods of taxi drivers. The Transport Workers Union opposed the initiative, citing public safety risks and threats to human employment.

Waymo has indicated that it will evaluate its future operations in the city if the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles renews the testing permit within the current state budget.