This comprehensive policy change applies to all driver license classifications, including examinations that are administered orally. The new requirement represents what FLHSMV describes as "Florida taking a leading role in highway safety by requiring all driver license exams be taken in English and without an interpreter."
The announcement comes as Florida joins other states in re-examining their driver testing procedures, with officials emphasizing the importance of clear communication and understanding of traffic laws for all drivers on Florida's roadways.
What's Changing?
Key Changes to Driver License Testing
- All knowledge exams will be conducted exclusively in English
- All skills examinations will be administered in English only
- Translation services will no longer be permitted during any portion of testing
- Multilingual exams in languages other than English will be removed from circulation
- Applies to all license types including commercial and non-commercial classifications
Understanding the Previous System
Prior to this policy change, Florida offered a more flexible approach to driver license testing that accommodated the state's diverse population. Knowledge exams for most non-commercial driver license classifications were previously available in multiple languages, making the testing process accessible to a broader range of applicants.
For commercial licenses, the state had already implemented some language restrictions. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) and Commercial Driver License (CDL) knowledge exams were limited to English and Spanish. However, under the new policy, even these commercial exams will now be offered in English only.
Implementation Details
How FLHSMV is Rolling Out the Changes
To implement this sweeping policy change, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has undertaken a comprehensive update of its driver license testing system across all locations statewide.
System Updates Include:
• Removal of all printed examinations in languages other than English
• Updates to testing center procedures and protocols
• Elimination of language translation services during examinations
• Training for staff on the new English-only policy
The department has worked to ensure that all testing locations across Florida are prepared for the transition, with the goal of maintaining smooth operations during the changeover period.
Official Statement
"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 department's statement emphasizes what it views as the core objectives of the policy change: promoting clear communication on Florida's roads, ensuring comprehensive understanding of traffic laws, and fostering responsible driving behavior among all licensed drivers in the state.
What This Means for Drivers
The policy change represents a significant adjustment for Florida's testing procedures and will affect anyone seeking to obtain or renew their driver license in the state. Prospective drivers will need to demonstrate proficiency in English to successfully complete both the knowledge and skills portions of their examinations.
This requirement applies uniformly across all license classifications, from basic Class E licenses for personal vehicles to commercial licenses for professional drivers. The change also extends to oral examinations, which were previously available as an accommodation option in multiple languages.
The implementation date of February 6th, 2026, gives applicants a brief window to prepare for the new requirements or complete testing under the current multilingual system if they are already in the process of obtaining their license.
