Tesla's Robotaxi Target Gets Approval in Arizona!

Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) has taken another step in its robotaxi goals and received approval to offer a paid ride-hailing service in Arizona. This new Transportation Network Company license allows Tesla to operate a service similar to Uber and charge passengers for rides. The only current limitation is that each ride still requires a human safety driver, meaning that fully autonomous travel is not yet possible.

The approval process happened quite quickly. Tesla applied on November 13 and received the green light on November 17; this came alongside the permit issued in September that allows for the testing of autonomous vehicles with a safety driver. The company has also made additional applications to test and operate fully autonomous vehicles and stated its determination to establish a presence in the Phoenix Metro area as soon as possible.

With Arizona's participation, Tesla is now operating robotaxi services in three different markets in the United States: Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area. The company aims to expand its long-promised robotaxi network by including new cities such as Nevada, Arizona, and Florida.

For investors, the Arizona approval stands out as another indication that Tesla is steadily expanding its footprint while anticipating a significant breakthrough: fully autonomous driving permission.