Florida Implements English-Only Driver's License Testing

In February 2024, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles began requiring all written and oral driver's license tests to be administered only in English, without the assistance of translators. The rule, which applies to new drivers, went fully into effect in April. Florida previously allowed tests to be taken in Spanish and is now one of a small number of states with an English-only testing requirement.

The rule change occurred less than a year after a fatal accident on the Florida Turnpike involving a commercial truck driver making an illegal U-turn.

Background and Context

According to U.S. Census data, approximately one in three Floridians speaks a foreign language at home. The state has a long history of debate over language policy; Florida voters approved a measure making English the state's official language in 1988.

Historically, Miami-Dade County passed an ordinance in the 1980s largely banning the use of taxpayer money for non-English programs, though it was repealed in the early 1990s.

Statements on the Rule

The policy change has drawn commentary from officials and advocates across the political spectrum.

• Governor Ron DeSantis described the rule as a "good reform."
• Florida House Representative Berny Jacques argued the requirement would encourage immigrants to assimilate, stating that not understanding road signs increases the risk of accidents.
• Manny Díaz, former mayor of Miami and chair of the Florida Democratic Party, countered that the rule "makes life unnecessarily difficult for people" and is a product of fearmongering.
• Adriana Rivera, a spokeswoman for the Florida Immigrant Coalition, stated the rule unfairly targets minority groups, could lead to more unlicensed driving, and would "criminalize everyday activities."

Reported Effects on Drivers and Schools

Driving schools, particularly in areas with large immigrant populations, are adapting their methods. In Hialeah in Miami-Dade County, instructor Johannes González now focuses on having students memorize key English words needed for the test.

Some schools report longer class times, more students failing on the first attempt, and a decrease in enrollment. Students over 50 are reported to be struggling more with the lessons.

Individual cases highlight the challenge:

• Alex López, a construction worker from Guatemala, has failed the English test twice.
• Yaima Fuentes Pérez, who immigrated from Cuba, passed the written test after dedicated study.