Florida is cracking down on foreign-language driver testing in the wake of deadly crashes caused by illegal immigrants, including one who held a California-issued Commercial Driver’s License. Beginning February 6, all driver’s license exams in the state will be administered solely in English, with no translation services allowed, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
The change affects every license classification, from standard passenger vehicle licenses to commercial trucking permits. Previously, Florida offered multiple-language options for many non-commercial tests, while CDL exams were also available in Spanish. That will no longer be the case under the new directive.
“FLHSMV has updated its driver license testing system statewide,” the department said in a statement Friday. “Language translation services will no longer be permitted for knowledge or skills examinations, and any printed exams in languages other than English will be removed for use.”
Illegal alien issued CDL by California. Doesn’t even speak English. Sanctuary policies are deadly.
Must hold the illegal alien accountable but also the other actors involved including the company. https://t.co/GRCOkGJLI3
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 18, 2025
The new policy comes in response to growing outrage over deadly road incidents involving illegal immigrants. One of the most notable cases cited by the state involved Harjinder Singh, an illegal immigrant from India who entered through California, a sanctuary state, in 2018. Singh was arrested and ordered for removal but later released after claiming fear of returning home. He eventually obtained a CDL in California.
In 2023, Singh attempted an illegal U-turn on the Florida Turnpike, killing three Americans in a crash state officials called “preventable.” The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Singh’s immigration history and the circumstances under which he was able to legally drive a commercial truck despite his illegal status.
Florida officials have also referenced other fatal crashes tied to immigrant truck drivers who were issued licenses in states with looser requirements. In December, a newlywed couple was killed in a similar incident, prompting fresh scrutiny over how states like California issue commercial licenses.
“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 said.
The English-only rule is the latest step by Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration to push back on sanctuary state policies and tighten control over who can legally drive in Florida. The state has also barred the recognition of out-of-state driver’s licenses issued to illegal immigrants.
As Florida continues to position itself as a national leader in immigration enforcement and road safety, officials say the new English-only policy will reduce miscommunication and dangerous errors on the road.
The post Florida Takes Action On Foreign Drivers: ‘English Only’ appeared first on Real News Now.
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