After nearly a year of deliberation, the California DMV has released rules that govern autonomous vehicle testing in the state. And all it takes is a $150 application fee and a $5 million insurance policy.

The rules are both clear and, shockingly for a state agency, seem to be rooted in common sense. Manufacturers have to provide proof that the vehicle successfully tested in a controlled environment before taking to the streets; that the "driver" has to be ready to take control at any moment; and most importantly, if an autonomous mode is disengaged during testing, the DMV has to be notified immediately.

Applications are being taken starting in July. There will be a $150 fee, but the license will allow a company to get 10 vehicles on the road with 20 licensed "drivers". The rules go into effect on September 16, with a broader set of rules that govern the public operation of autonomous vehicles likely to be adopted on January 1, 2015. You can check out the full text of the rules , and let us know if you find anything interesting.