Tesla’s Texas Cybercab authorizations reportedly rose to 169

Tesla’s Cybercab commercial-use authorizations in Texas reportedly rose from 45 at its Austin unveiling on September 3, 2026, to 169 by the Friday before October 3. Austin was the only city operating Tesla’s driverless ride-hail service at the time.

Texas Cybercab authorizations rise

The reported count grew by 124 vehicles between the unveiling and the Friday before October 3. These are commercial-use authorizations: the tally measures regulatory permissions, a different metric from vehicles operating or rides completed.

As of October 3, Austin was the only city where Tesla’s driverless Cybercab ride-hail service was operating. The authorization increase therefore marked a rise in vehicles cleared for commercial use in Texas, while the service remained centered on Austin.

What riders reported during the first month

Early rider accounts described waits of 45 minutes or longer. Waits later shortened as demand became more evenly distributed. Riders also reported incorrect pickup or drop-off locations and problems with butterfly doors or trunks closing properly.

Feedback was not all negative: one rider described a smooth trip and praised the private cabin space, large screen, media controls and apps.

Safety oversight and emergency response

NHTSA opened an audit query concerning the Cybercab’s compliance with federal safety standards after the launch. Tesla reportedly received an extension to its original September 30, 2026, response deadline.

The Cybercab has two seats and no steering wheel or pedals. First responders raised concerns about access to vehicle controls and doors during emergencies, and called for a way to move, steer or shut down autonomous vehicles. By October 3, no significant Cybercab safety incidents or collisions had been reported in Austin.

Expansion beyond Austin

Extending the service beyond Austin is the next operational challenge. The reported authorization count reflects a larger number of Cybercabs cleared for commercial use in Texas; as of October 3, the driverless ride-hail service was operating in Austin alone.