All Florida driver’s license exams are now administered in English only, and Democrats are attacking Republicans over the issue, saying it is about racism and attacking immigrants.
This change applies to all classifications, including exams administered orally. Florida is taking a leading role in highway safety by requiring all driver license exams be taken in English and without an interpreter.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles announced that all driver license knowledge and skills examinations will now be administered exclusively in English. Previously, knowledge exams for most non-commercial driver license classifications were offered in multiple languages, while Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver License (CDL) knowledge exams were only available in English and Spanish.
Under the updated policy, all driver license knowledge and skills testing will be conducted in English. To implement this change, FLHSMV updated its driver license testing system statewide. Language translation services will no longer be permitted for knowledge or skills examinations, and any printed exams in languages other than English will be removed for use, according to the state.
The Florida Democratic Party attacked Republican leadership for making this change.
“In one of the most multilingual states in the country, Florida is going to implement driver’s license exams only in English. This is not about safety, this is about racism,” FDP Chair Nikki Fried posted. “This shows exactly how Republican leaders view the immigrant community: not as neighbors, nor as people who contribute to Florida’s economy and culture, but as disposable people.”
Republican Governor Ron DeSantis supported the change and made a common sense argument about the ability to understand driving laws and to read road signs.
“Good reform by FLHSMV to require driver exams be conducted only in English,” the Florida Governor posted. “Need to be able to read the road signs!”
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles said it remains committed to ensuring safe roadways for all Floridians and visitors by promoting clear communication, understanding of traffic laws, and responsible driving behavior.
