Archive · 18 Dec 2025
California DMV Defers Tesla Sales Suspension
The California DMV accused Tesla of misleading customers by using the names Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) for its driver assistance features, which the DMV says make it seem like the cars can drive themselves.
The DMV initially ordered Tesla to stop selling and manufacturing cars for 30 days, but then decided to give Tesla more time to fix the issue.
Tesla says no customers have complained about the Autopilot name, and the company can avoid the suspension by either stopping the use of the Autopilot name or proving its cars can drive without human help.
The DMV has focused more on the Autopilot term as Tesla made changes to FSD during the proceedings.
Tesla can appeal the decision by February 14, and sales in California will continue as usual for now.
California DMV accused Tesla of misleading marketing with Autopilot and FSD names, implying autonomous operation.
DMV initially ordered a 30-day suspension of Tesla's sales and manufacturing licenses but deferred the suspension.
Tesla can avoid the suspension by stopping the use of the Autopilot name or proving its cars can operate without human supervision.
The DMV has narrowed its focus to the term Autopilot as Tesla made changes to FSD during proceedings.
Tesla claims no customer complaints about the Autopilot terminology and can appeal the decision by February 14.
- Who
- California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Tesla
- What
- DMV defers suspension of Tesla's sales and manufacturing licenses over misleading marketing claims
- When
- The suspension was deferred on Tuesday, with a deadline for appeal by February 14
- Where
- California, Tesla's biggest U.S. market
- Why
- DMV accuses Tesla of misleading consumers with Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) terminology, implying autonomous operation
- Regulator
- California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Company
- Tesla
- Issue
- Misleading marketing of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities
- Initial Order
- 30-day suspension of Tesla's manufacturing and sales licenses
- Current Status
- Suspension deferred for 90 days (sales) and indefinitely (manufacturing)
- Deadline for Appeal
- February 14
- Tesla's Response
- Claims no customer complaints about Autopilot terminology
- Autopilot Functionality
- Assists with acceleration, braking, and lane-keeping on highways
- FSD Functionality
- Enables lane-changing and obeying traffic signals in city streets
