Tesla FSD (Supervised), Full Self-Driving: what it is
Tesla FSD (Supervised), Full Self-Driving sounds like the car drives for you—but the honest version is simpler: it can steer, brake, and accelerate along a route while you supervise every second. Think co-pilot, not chauffeur. Hands ready, eyes on the road, you remain responsible. It is not autonomous.
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What “Supervised” really means
Tesla markets the feature as Full Self-Driving (Supervised) for a reason. The software may handle many ordinary driving tasks, yet:
- You must stay attentive to the road and traffic.
- You must keep your hands ready to take over immediately.
- You remain legally and practically responsible for what the car does.
- You can take control anytime—steering input or the brake pedal ends the automation for that moment.
Safety note: Do not use your phone or look away from the road while FSD (Supervised) is engaged. If the system hesitates, unexpected construction appears, or you feel unsure, take over right away. FSD (Supervised) is designed to help reduce collisions and driver fatigue, but it does not remove your duty as the driver. Tesla publishes its own safety statistics; those figures do not change your responsibility during a Zap M3 rental.
What it is—and what it is not
| It can feel like… | It is not… |
|---|---|
| A highly capable driver-assistance system | A robotaxi or fully autonomous mode |
| Help on familiar routes when conditions suit it | Permission to nap, text, or leave the seat |
| Something you supervise continuously | A guarantee of perfect decisions |
Availability on Zap M3 rentals
All three Zap M3 Model 3s have FSD (Supervised): a 2018 Model 3 Long Range, a 2024 Model 3, and another 2018 Model 3 Long Range.
How FSD affects mileage pricing
Rentals are $19.99 per day, with mileage billed after return: $0.40/mile for miles on FSD (Supervised). If less than 90% of your trip’s measured miles were on FSD, all of your non-FSD (manually driven) miles bill at 2× — $0.80/mile. At 90% FSD or higher, every mile stays at $0.40. Example: 100 miles, 80 on FSD → $32 + $16 = $48 mileage. A $250 deposit hold is placed at pickup, and 10% Virginia rental tax applies. Full details: Pricing.
First time using it on a rental
- Learn basic Tesla controls first—see First time driving a Tesla?.
- Engage FSD (Supervised) only when you understand how to cancel it instantly.
- Start on simpler roads before dense downtown traffic.
- Keep supervising even when the car “looks confident.”
Rent a Tesla in Richmond with clear expectations
Zap M3, LLC rents Model 3s directly at ZapM3.com—six years in Richmond, contactless phone-key pickup, renters 25+, 24/7 AI text and phone help. Explore Rent a Tesla in Richmond, VA, wedding and events, or a rental while yours is in the shop.
Contact Zap M3: ContactUs@ZAPM3.com · (804) 546-5983
Mailing address: Zap M3, LLC, 919 E Main Street, STE 1000, Richmond, VA 23219
FAQ
Is Tesla FSD (Supervised) fully self-driving / autonomous?
Can I watch a video or text while it is engaged?
Do all Zap M3 cars include FSD (Supervised)?
Where can I read Tesla’s own safety information?
Disclaimer. You are responsible for all vehicle actions during your rental, including any collision. Full Self-Driving (Supervised) requires an attentive driver at all times, and you can take control at any moment by turning the steering wheel or pressing the brake. Just as when driving manually, you may not use your phone or look away from the road ahead while FSD (Supervised) is engaged. FSD (Supervised) is designed to help reduce collisions and driver fatigue. Based on statistical data published by Tesla in its FSD (Supervised) Vehicle Safety Report, Tesla reports that vehicles with FSD (Supervised) engaged experience fewer collisions than vehicles driven manually. These figures are Tesla's and do not limit or change your responsibility as the driver.