Florida has implemented a policy where English is the only language in which residents may take their driver’s license test. The policy, which took effect February 6, applies to all driver’s license knowledge and skills tests.
Knowledge exams for most non-commercial driver license classifications were previously offered in multiple languages, while the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver License (CD) tests were available in English and Spanish.
“To implement this change, FLHSMV has updated its driver license testing system statewide,” a press release from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) explains. “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.”
Florida’s new policy aligns with the Trump administration’s efforts to crack down on licensing schemes involving illegal immigrants. President Trump signed an order in April demanding that all truckers “be able to read and understand traffic signs, communicate with traffic safety, border patrol, agricultural checkpoints, and cargo weight-limit station officers.” Drivers further “need to provide feedback to their employers and customers and receive related directions in English.”
The state of Florida also filed a lawsuit in October against California and Washington in the Supreme Court, alleging the states’ granting of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) to illegal immigrants has endangered U.S. citizens. At the time, Florida was the “most recent victim” of drivers endangering citizens after an illegal immigrant licensed in both California and Washington attempted a “reckless U-turn,” leading to three fatalities.
