Jan. 18, 2008 - Attention: Virginia truckers! A bill in the statehouse would limit drivers’ tests to English only. The legislation also would effect commercial driver’s license testing. Please take time now to share your views on this important topic with your state lawmakers.

The bill – HB376 – is intended to help ensure that people issued driver’s licenses in the state understand English. It would require all driver’s license exams in the state to be conducted exclusively in English. It also would prohibit the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles from supplying or permitting the use of interpreters to help with the exams.

Virginia law now allows driver’s license applicants to take the written and driving portions of the exam in Spanish. Aspiring truckers and motorists also are allowed to use interpreters; they even are allowed to bring their own interpreters if the DMV can’t provide someone who speaks their language. Applicants can also have the test read to them if they can speak English, but are unable to read or write.

Supporters say restrictions are needed to help ensure that aspiring truckers and other drivers have a firm grasp of the English language before they obtain their license to drive. They also point out that federal regulations require CDL applicants to be able to read and speak English sufficiently.

Opponents say there are no studies that suggest English proficiency makes better drivers. Others say there are more pressing issues to address in the state.

HB376 is in the House Rules Committee. This is a great opportunity for you to communicate with your state delegate and senator about this issue. For contact information, visit http://conview.state.va.us/whosmy.nsf/main?openform and fill out the address request.

You can also call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791 and they can pull up the information for you.