Tennessee Considers English-Only Driver's Tests, Bans Translation Aids

A proposed bill in Tennessee, sponsored by Republican lawmakers Bo Watson and Kip Capley, aims to require all written driver’s license exams to be conducted solely in English, eliminating translation services and interpreters. Currently, these exams are available in several languages, including Spanish and Korean, accommodating around 12,494 non-English speakers annually. Proponents argue the measure is essential for public safety, as road signs are primarily in English, while opponents contend it discriminates against non-English speakers and could lead to more unlicensed drivers on the road. Critics, including immigrant rights advocates, assert that the bill would violate civil rights protections and make driving access more difficult for non-English speakers. If passed, the bill would take effect on July 1, positioning Tennessee alongside South Dakota and Wyoming as states with English-only driving tests. The legislation has sparked significant debate among lawmakers, with concerns over its potential impact on public safety and accessibility.