Florida’s Driver’s License Tests Will Be English-Only
In a significant move, Florida officials announced that starting Friday, all driver’s license tests will only be available in English.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) stated that the “Driving License Knowledge and Skills” tests will now be conducted “exclusively in English,” and this policy will cover all license categories, including oral tests.
Previous testing allowed for multiple languages such as Spanish, Russian, and Vietnamese, with interpretation services offered as well.
Reports indicate that several states, including Wyoming, South Dakota, and Oklahoma, already conduct English-only exams. Nearby, Alabama is considering legislation that would enforce English-only tests.
Previously, knowledge exams for most non-commercial driver’s licenses were available in various languages. However, exams for commercial learner permits and commercial driver’s licenses had always been in English and Spanish. Under the new rules, all driving knowledge and skills tests will now be conducted solely in English.
This shift to English-only testing follows an incident in Florida where a semi-truck driver was charged with causing the deaths of three Americans during an illegal U-turn. The driver had reportedly failed an English proficiency test earlier and struggled to recognize traffic signs.
Authorities later uncovered how a non-English-speaking immigrant managed to obtain a license to drive large trucks in the United States. Investigators discovered that some individuals used hidden cameras and earphones to gain access to driver’s license facilities for taking the commercial driver’s license exam.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis voiced his support for this decision, calling it a “good reform” in a social media post, stating, “I want to be able to read road signs!”
FLHSMV reasserted its commitment to maintaining safe roads for all Floridians and visitors by promoting clear communication, comprehension of traffic laws, and responsible driving practices.
