Driverless vehicles would be required to have a licensed driver behind the wheel and be ready to take over should a problem arise.

"The amendment would create a rigorous application process spearheaded by the DMV," said Padilla. The state would require the DMV to notify it of any application to run driverless vehicles on state highways, and for a six-month period to elapse before the application is approved. The delay is intended to give the legislature time to consult on each application if it so wishes.

In presenting the amendments, Padilla said he believes California is in a unique position with respect to driverless car technology.

"Not only do we love our autos, but this technology is, in a large part, being developed in this state of California," he said.

Padilla committed to working over the assembly's July summer recess to get liability wording finalized with input from the assembly's judiciary committee. The committee will hear the revised language in August. Assuming it continues moving forward, the bill would come up for a vote on the assembly floor. It would then pass back to the state senate for the assembly's amendments to be approved. The final step would be signature into state law by the governor.