1. (a) Prior to seeking authorization from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to operate one or more automated motor vehicles under Transportation Code, §545.456, a person must provide a first responder interaction plan to the department.

2. (b) A first responder interaction plan for one or more automated motor vehicles under Transportation Code, §545.455 must be:

   1. (1) Submitted electronically in the department's designated system; and
   2. (2) Prepared by or on behalf of the authorization holder, the manufacturer of the automated motor vehicle, or the manufacturer of the automated driving system.

3. (c) A first responder interaction plan must contain:

   1. (1) How to communicate with a fleet support specialist who is available during the period in which the automated motor vehicle is in operation. The means of communication must include a telephone number that is prominently displayed on the vehicle in distinguishing markings that are sufficient to ensure clear identification by first responders. A Quick Response (QR) code must be affixed and displayed next to the telephone number which when scanned provides the first responder with direct electronic access to the first responder interaction plan;
   2. (2) How to safely remove the automated motor vehicle from the roadway and safely tow the vehicle;
   3. (3) How to recognize whether the automated motor vehicle is being operated with the automated driving system engaged;
   4. (4) Any additional information the authorization holder, the manufacturer of the automated motor vehicle, or the manufacturer of the automated driving system considers necessary regarding hazardous conditions or public safety risks associated with the operation of the vehicle; and
   5. (5) Contact information for the person that prepared, or on whose behalf the plan was prepared, the first responder interaction plan. The contact information must include the name, title, and contact details of the designee authorized and responsible for any enforcement action arising during the operation of the automated motor vehicle.
4. (d) Following the initial submission of a first responder interaction plan, a person, the manufacturer of the automated motor vehicle, or the manufacturer of the automated driving system must provide the department with an updated first responder interaction plan whenever a material change occurs or upon request of the department to ensure the information remains accurate and current. The person must electronically submit the updated plan consistent with subsection (b) of this section.

Source Note:The provisions of this §39.3 adopted to be effective January 1, 2026, 50 TexReg 8623.