House Bill 1708, sponsored by Capley, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to motor vehicles. A significant change includes the addition of a new subsection (k) to Section 55-50-322, which allows applicants for a driver or intermediate license who cannot speak and read English to take the written examination in another language. However, if such a license is issued, it will be a restricted, non-renewable license valid for one year, allowing travel only for specific purposes such as attending school, going to work, or medical appointments. Upon expiration, the applicant must retake the written exam in English without assistance from translation tools or interpreters.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section (55-4-144) that mandates applicants for initial vehicle registration or renewal to provide documentation proving their citizenship or lawful residency status in the U.S. Acceptable forms of proof include a Tennessee driver license or photo ID for citizens, and temporary licenses for lawful permanent residents or authorized individuals. The bill also requires a notice to be included with every registration or renewal, informing applicants of these requirements. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-50-322