Florida has decided that all driving license exams will only be conducted in English starting Friday. This decision follows an executive order issued by President Trump about a year ago, establishing English as the official language of the United States.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles stated that the move signifies the state’s commitment to enhancing highway safety by mandating that all driver’s license exams be taken in English, without interpreters.
“There is no better way for states to test the English proficiency of truck drivers than by administering the CDL Knowledge and Skills Test in English,” the department noted.
This new policy impacts knowledge and skill tests across all categories of driver’s licenses and is set to take effect on February 6th.
Previously, most non-commercial driver’s license knowledge tests could be taken in various languages, while tests for Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Driver’s License were only offered in English and Spanish.
Florida’s department explained that with this change, the statewide driver’s license testing system has been updated. Language translation services won’t be allowed during knowledge or skill tests, and tests in languages other than English will no longer be available. They emphasized their ongoing commitment to ensuring safe roads by promoting clear communication, comprehension of traffic laws, and responsible driving practices.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed support for the new policy, labeling it a “good reform” and stressing the necessity for drivers to be able to read road signs.
Eric Daugherty from Florida’s Voice referred to the decision as a “huge victory,” advocating for a nationwide approach: “English. Let’s do it nationwide! Florida is on the right path,” he stated.
The Small Business Transportation Coalition also commended Florida for adopting an English-only testing policy. Executive Director James Lamb remarked that testing truck drivers’ English skills in English is a common-sense approach. He expressed hope that other states would follow Florida’s lead.
This policy relates to a presidential order issued by Trump last March, which made English the official language of the federal government. The order emphasized that having a single official language would encourage unity and make government operations more consistent, ultimately fostering a cohesive society.
