Tesla announced Bay Area robotaxi launch without permits. The 'autonomous' vehicles have human drivers and are only available to employees.

The CPUC confirmed Friday that Tesla has not applied for the necessary authorization to operate autonomous vehicles for public passenger service-paid or unpaid-in the state. The clarification comes in direct response to reports that Tesla planned to launch its robotaxi service in the Bay Area as early as this weekend.

Tesla is set to launch its robotaxi service in San Francisco, with select Tesla owners in the Bay Area receiving invitations to try the service, which will have human safety monitors in the driver's seat.