PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Tesla is a step closer to getting its driverless rideshare vehicles on Valley streets.

The electric vehicle maker applied for a Transportation Network Company (TNC) permit on Nov. 13, which would be the final step needed to bring its Robotaxi service to the Phoenix area. The company has since met the requirements to operate as a TNC in Arizona, and the permit was granted by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) on Nov. 17.

This doesn’t mean its Robotaxis can operate without a driver quite yet. The TNC permit allows the vehicles to operate with a safety driver, while an additional certification is needed for the cars to operate without a driver.

Autonomous vehicle companies are required to follow a self-certification process and all stringent federal laws,

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