Florida to require driver's license exams be taken in English only starting Feb. 6

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has announced that all driver's license knowledge and skills examinations will be administered exclusively in English beginning Friday, February 6.

The new policy applies to all driver's license classifications, including exams administered orally, and eliminates the use of interpreters or translated testing materials during the examination process.

According to FLHSMV, the change is intended to promote highway safety by ensuring clear communication and understanding of traffic laws among all licensed drivers in the state.

Previously, knowledge exams for most non-commercial driver licenses were offered in multiple languages, while Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver License (CDL) exams were limited to English and Spanish. Under the updated policy, all driver license knowledge and skills testing—commercial and non-commercial—will be conducted in English only.

To support the transition, FLHSMV said it has updated its driver license testing system statewide. Translation services will no longer be allowed for either the knowledge or skills portions of the exam, and all printed exams in languages other than English will be removed from use.

In a statement, the department said the move places Florida in a leadership role on highway safety by reinforcing consistent communication standards on the state’s roadways.

“FLHSMV remains committed to ensuring safe roadways for all Floridians and visitors by promoting clear communication, understanding of traffic laws, and responsible driving behavior,” the agency said.

The new requirement takes effect statewide on February 6.