This week, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) announced it will offer Commercial Learner’s Permit Exams in additional languages to “increase the pool of commercial drivers for companies doing business in the Commonwealth.”
On November 13, 2024, the Massachusetts RMV announced that commercial learner’s permit knowledge exams will be available in Spanish and Portuguese, as well as in English.
While the knowledge test may be administered in other languages, the road test must be administered in English, per federal regulation, according to the Massachusetts RMV. “Also, per federal regulation, the use of a foreign language interpreter is not permitted,” officials said.
Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) applicants must be Massachusetts residents of at least 18 years of age who have a “lawful presence” in the U.S. and an active (Class D) driver’s license.
“We hope to encourage more residents to consider applying for a Commercial Driver’s License by offering the exam in Spanish and Portuguese, along with English,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “Making the exam available in additional languages will give more residents an opportunity to get a credential which will make them eligible for many job opportunities and will also support the needs of businesses, school systems, and other employers who need CDL holders to provide essential services.”
“The addition of Spanish and Portuguese for commercial learner’s permit exams allows eligible applicants to take the knowledge test in one of these languages, should they choose,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “This will help remove a barrier and increase the pool of commercial drivers for companies doing business in the Commonwealth.”