Tesla electric vehicles (EV) in front of the company’s store in Colma, California, US, on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025.
David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images
A California administrative law judge recently ruled recently that Tesla’s marketing around its “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” systems had been deceptive, and that the company should face a 30-day suspension of each of its licenses to sell and manufacture cars in the state, according to California’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
The California DMV made formal accusations of false advertising against Tesla in 2022. Steve Gordon, the agency’s director, said in a press conference on Tuesday that the regulator will now give Elon Musk’s automaker 90 days to clarify or remove deceptive or confusing language about its Autopilot and FSD systems before implementing a 30-day suspension of the company’s sales license.
Gordon also said the DMV will stay the order to suspend Tesla’s manufacturing license so there will be no interruption to the company’s factory operations in the state.
In 2022, the DMV said that Tesla’s “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” marketing suggested the company’s cars were capable of operating autonomously, though they required an attentive driver at the wheel, ready to steer or brake at any time.
Since that time, Tesla has changed the name of its premium, driver assistance option to Full Self-Driving (Supervised).
Tesla didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.
Tesla’s stock price closed at a record on Tuesday, largely due to increased enthusiasm on Wall Street surrounding the company’s plans for its Robotaxis.
This is breaking news. Please check back for updates.
https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/16/california-judge-says-tesla-engaged-in-deceptive-autopilot-marketing-.html
