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Florida to Require All Driver Tests in English Starting Feb. 6

State highway officials say the shift is a safety measure to ensure clear communication and understanding of traffic laws.

Stock image/file photo: Street with car and roadside sign signpost for directions to driver license office in Naples, Florida on August 9, 2021.
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Overview

  • FLHSMV says all knowledge and skills exams statewide will be administered only in English beginning Friday, with systems already updated to enforce the rule.
  • The policy applies to every license category and testing format and eliminates translated exams and the use of interpreters.
  • Previously, most non‑commercial knowledge exams were available in multiple languages, while commercial exams were limited to English and Spanish.
  • Local data show heavy use of non‑English testing in 2025, including more than 13,500 exams in Hillsborough County, about 37% of driving skills tests there.
  • Officials frame the change as a safety step and Gov. Ron DeSantis supports it, while Democrats and county leaders warn it could deter testing and increase unlicensed and uninsured driving.