Bill passes allowing refugees to take driver's test with interpreter

SALT LAKE CITY — The Legislature has passed a bill allowing refugees to take their first driver's license test in their native language with the help of an interpreter.

SB47, sponsored by Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, was approved 68-2 in the House Thursday and now goes to Gov. Gary Herbert for his action.

The House sponsor of the bill, House Minority Leader Dave Litvack, D-Salt Lake, said refugees need to be able to drive to become self-sufficient.

"Otherwise, a lot of these families end up on the public rolls," Litvack said.

He said the Utah Refugee Office is providing additional assistance in learning the rules of the road, including recognizing traffic signs written in English.  

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