Tesla Inc. has received the state-level permits required to operate a robotaxi ride-sharing service in Phoenix.

The Arizona Department of Transportation recently greenlit its request to operate as a so-called "transportation network company." Bill Lamoreaux, a spokesperson for the agency, stated that the company applied for the permit on Nov. 13.

Tesla previously obtained approvals to operate its autonomous vehicles on local streets — although only with human safety monitors aboard. It now holds the same type of ride-sharing permit as Uber, Lyft and Waymo, giving it the necessary certifications to start offering rides in its self-driving cars to paying customers.

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