After testing in Philly for more than a year, Waymo won't offer a timeline on when it will go fully driverless

The robotaxi company has been testing its autonomous vehicles in the city and mapping Philly's streets since July 2025.

"No Waymo vehicles are operating without a trained specialist behind the wheel in Philadelphia," Waymo spokesperson Ethan Teicher said after taking a look at the photo.

For months, Waymo has declined to answer questions about its anticipated timeline to roll out in Philly.

The next step — which requires certification from PennDOT — will be testing the cars in autonomous mode with Waymo staff in the back seat.

Appleby said PennDOT has not received any other reports of Waymo vehicles operating in Philly without a person in the driver's seat.