The United States introduces major vehicle safety changes in 2026: mandatory automatic emergency braking standards for all new vehicles by 2029, development of impaired driving prevention technology under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, updated NCAP safety ratings, and new autonomous vehicle framework regulations.
Safety rules
Before
Voluntary AEB adoptionAEB systems were voluntarily adopted by most manufacturers but not federally required
After (2026)
Mandatory AEB for all vehiclesAll passenger cars and light trucks must have AEB that works up to 62 mph for vehicles and includes pedestrian detection in daylight and darkness
Safety rules
Before
No impairment detection requiredVehicles had no built-in systems to detect or prevent drunk/impaired driving
After (2026)
Impairment detection standards in developmentBipartisan Infrastructure Law Section 24220 requires NHTSA to develop standards for technology that passively detects driver impairment and prevents vehicle operation; rulemaking ongoing
Safety rules
Before
No pedestrian AEB requirementPedestrian detection was an optional feature, not federally mandated
After (2026)
Mandatory pedestrian detectionAll new vehicles must detect pedestrians in daylight and darkness and automatically brake up to 45 mph to avoid collisions
Safety rules
Before
Crash test ratings onlyNCAP 5-star ratings based primarily on crash test performance
After (2026)
ADAS features in ratingsNew ratings include blind spot warning, blind spot intervention, lane keeping assist, and pedestrian AEB (delayed from MY2026 to MY2027)
Licensing
Before
Limited AV regulationsFederal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards written for human-operated vehicles only
After (2026)
Modernized AV standardsNHTSA launching rulemakings to update FMVSS for vehicles with automated driving systems (ADS), including standards for vehicles without manual controls
Environmental zones
Before
Previous CAFE standardsCorporate Average Fuel Economy standards set under previous administration
After (2026)
Revised MY 2022-2031 standardsNew rulemaking adjusting fuel economy requirements for passenger cars and light trucks through model year 2031
NHTSA finalized a rule requiring AEB on all passenger cars and light trucks by September 2029. The systems must stop vehicles to avoid collisions up to 62 mph and must detect pedestrians in both daylight and darkness. This is expected to save 360 lives and prevent 24,000 injuries annually.
The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requires NHTSA to develop standards for impaired driving prevention technology. NHTSA is currently in the rulemaking process, evaluating breath-based sensors, touch-based infrared systems, and camera monitoring. No final rule has been issued yet; implementation is expected no earlier than 2027-2028 once technology is mature and standards are finalized.
NHTSA is adding Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to the NCAP ratings, including blind spot warning, blind spot intervention, lane keeping assist, and pedestrian AEB. Originally planned for 2026 model year, this update has been delayed to 2027 to address industry concerns and finalize testing procedures.
NHTSA is updating Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for autonomous vehicles. New rulemakings will modify standards that assumed human drivers, allowing vehicles with automated driving systems (ADS) that may lack steering wheels or pedals. This is part of the DOT's innovation agenda announced by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 1 February 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
