Slovakia approves legal framework for autonomous vehicles

The National Council of the Slovak Republic has approved a new legal framework to regulate the use of fully automated vehicles. The legislation, which is set to take effect on December 1, 2026, aims to address technological advancements in autonomous mobility where vehicles operate without direct driver control.

Under the new law, operators must obtain a license from the Ministry of Transport following successful testing and a mandatory opinion from the police. To ensure road safety, the regulations require technical supervision and the establishment of a control center capable of continuous monitoring. This center must be able to immediately bring an automated vehicle to a minimum safe state to prevent threats to life, health, or property.