Waymo’s Robotaxi Rides Now Offered To Public In Tampa

TAMPA, FL — Waymo has begun offering autonomous rides to its first public riders in Tampa, bringing the company’s driverless ride-hailing service to the region, the company said in a blog post.

The launch began Tuesday as Waymo expanded its service to Tampa, Denver and San Diego.

The three cities bring the company’s autonomous ride-hailing service to 14 nationwide, Waymo said.

Waymo already operates in Miami and Orlando, as well as the San Francisco Bay area, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Nashville, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, its website said. And it’s available via Uber app only in Austin and Atlanta.

The company has spent months testing its vehicles, which operate without a human driver, on Tampa-area roads ahead of the launch.

The company also has worked with local officials and first responders to prepare for the arrival of its autonomous vehicles.

• Also Read: Waymo To Bring Driverless Rideshare Service To This FL City

“Tampa’s innovative spirit continues to draw companies that are on the forefront of technology to our city,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said in a statement. “Waymo’s launch in Tampa provides another effective – and exciting – way to get around, helping us in our goal to strengthen our transportation network and provide options for every preference or need.”

Laura Streed, director of outreach and engagement at AARP Florida, also celebrated Waymo’s expansion into Tampa.

"We at AARP know it's so important to have as many different transportation options as possible,” she said in a statement. “Waymo will be another great option for older adults, especially those that don't want to drive anymore and are looking for another way to get out of their house and in their community."

Waymo said tens of thousands of people in Tampa, Denver and San Diego have signed up to express interest in riding. Access will expand gradually as the company works toward making the service available to everyone.

The company previously announced plans to bring its autonomous ride-hailing service to Tampa in 2026.

In July, Waymo began driving autonomously in Tampa with a specialist in the vehicle as it prepared to begin carrying public riders.

Residents who have signed up for Waymo updates will be notified as they become eligible to ride, the company said.