POLL: Bill proposed in Tennessee requiring written driver’s license exams to be administered in English
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF REP. KIP CAPLEY:
Rep. Kip Capley proposes bill requiring written driver’s license exams to be administered in English
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, today introduced legislation that would require written driver’s license exams to be administered in English.
Capley’s proposal, House Bill 1730, will apply to applicants for driver’s licenses and intermediate driver’s licenses. The legislation will prohibit the use of translation dictionaries, electronic devices, and interpreters for assistance with the exam’s administration.
“All Tennesseans want to feel safe on the road,” Capley said. “The ability to understand signs and warnings is important for the protection of other drivers. Not being able to do so can pose a real danger to public safety. If you have to take a written driver exam in a language other than English in order to pass, it’s my view that you shouldn’t receive a Tennessee driver’s license until you’re able to pass in the official and legal language of our state. The test will still be available for disabled Tennessee citizens who need modifications.”
Currently, applicants are able to take the written driver examinations online or in person in English, Spanish, Korean, German and Japanese, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
Capley’s proposal builds on the General Assembly’s recent efforts to improve public safety and transportation in Tennessee.
The second session of the 113th Tennessee General Assembly convened Jan. 9 at noon.
State Rep. Kip Capley represents House District 71, which includes Wayne County and part of Hardin, Lawrence, and Maury counties.
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