Waymo Announces Plans to Launch Robotaxi Service in Washington, D.C., by 2026

The autonomous vehicle leader will work with policymakers to address regulatory hurdles as it expands its footprint to the nation's capital.

Waymo plans to introduce its fully autonomous ride-hailing service in Washington, D.C., in 2026, contingent on changes to regulations requiring human drivers in autonomous vehicles.
The company has been testing its vehicles in the city since January 2025 and is currently mapping the area with safety drivers behind the wheel.
Waymo aims to leverage its expansion into D.C. to influence federal policymakers and advocate for a unified regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles.
The move marks Waymo's first entry into a city with regular snowfall, presenting operational challenges that will initially limit service during snow or icy conditions.
This expansion is part of Waymo's broader strategy to grow its U.S. presence, which includes launching services in Miami and Atlanta in 2026 alongside its existing operations in cities like San Francisco and Phoenix.