Senate passes bill allowing refugees to take driver's license test in native language

SALT LAKE CITY — A bill allowing legal refugees to take their first driver's license test in their native language passed the state Senate on Wednesday.

Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, said he sponsored SB47 to help refugees have the mobility needed to obtain jobs, which is required of them when they arrive in the United States. Renewal of the limited-term license would have to be done in English four years later, rather than the standard five-year period.

"This is a mechanism to help them become gainfully employed and self-sufficient," he said. The law would permit refugees to take the test with the aid of an interpreter.

The bill does not change requirements for illegal immigrants seeking a driving privilege card. They must still pass the test in English.

Some questioned whether people who can't speak English could be safe drivers. Bramble said an eight-sided red sign means stop regardless of the language on the sign. A red, green or yellow light means the same in any language, he said.

The Senate approved the bill 24-2. It now moves to the House.

— Dennis Romboy