Waymo Cracks Down on Unaccompanied Minors in Self-Driving Cars

Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving car company, is implementing stricter measures to prevent unaccompanied minors from riding in its vehicles. While California law prohibits driverless cars from carrying unaccompanied minors, some parents have reportedly used their accounts to transport children to various activities. Waymo confirmed on Friday, May 2, 2026, that it is actively working to stop this practice.

The company is refining its age-verification system, which uses internal cameras to monitor riders and ensure compliance with its terms of service. Violators risk account suspension. This initiative follows a formal complaint filed last month by California labor groups, alleging that Waymo knowingly transported unaccompanied minors, thus violating its state operating permit. A judge is now presiding over this matter, as state officials evaluate potential new regulations.

Recently, the enhanced checks have inadvertently affected some young-looking adults. Nicholas Fleischhauer, a San Francisco engineer, was asked to verify his age during a ride, despite being 35. Similarly, Ethan S. Klein, 23, experienced an unexpected age verification call from a support agent. Waymo has previously allowed teen accounts for ages 14-17 in the Phoenix area, enabling parents to track their children's rides.