Question: Is it permissible for an immigrant to Florida to become a licensed professional if they intend to speak in their native language?
Answer: Yes, in fact the intent of the Florida legislature was to encourage foreign-speaking Florida residents to pursue professions that are regulated by statute when they created section 455.11, F.S. Pursuant to the section, any person who has successfully completed, or is currently enrolled in, an approved course of study must be deemed qualified for examination and reexaminations for a professional or occupational license. The actual examination or must be administered in the English language unless 15 or more applicants request that a reexamination be administered in a native language. The purpose of the statute is to insure that all Florida citizens may receive better services.
Thanks for asking,
Fred Gray