MIAMI – All driver’s license tests in Florida are now solely being administered in English, and without translation or interpreter services.
“I guess it’s good and it’s bad in many ways because a lot of people depend on their driver’s license,” one man told News 6 partner WPLG-TV outside a South Florida DMV office. “I think it’s good because it’s going to help our drivers and riders feel a bit more safe on the road because a lot of people – they can drive, but they don’t know how to drive.”
The change has pushed many to take their test at the DMV this week after the change was announced by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, which said the change would be in effect starting Feb. 6.
“It would have been more difficult, understanding and reading the questions. It was by coincidence that I saw this on social media,” Linda Amarillo told WPLG-TV in Spanish.
Amarillo said the new change is concerning, because not everyone can take the test in English as well.
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The FLHSMV said their reasoning behind the move is to strengthen highway safety.
The move follows a fatal Aug. 12 crash in which an Indian truck driver made an illegal U-turn on Florida’s Turnpike, leading to the deaths of three people.
Officials say he was in the country illegally and raised concerns about his English proficiency.
Reactions amongst Florida residents have been mixed.
“I think it’s a good thing,” local resident Terry Caldwell said. “I mean, we’re Americans and Americans should have an English language for the test.”
“I don’t think that’s fair,” another man said. “If people understand better in their native language, it’s no problem. As long as it’s the same test the English readers get.”
The FLHSMV said in a statement that it “remains committed to ensuring safe roadways for all Floridians and visitors by promoting clear communication, understanding of traffic laws, and responsible driving behavior.”