INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — A new service offered by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles was created so those who communicate through American Sign Language would have an experience no different than anyone else.
In the past, those who may be deaf or hard of hearing, had to make an advanced appointment with the BMV, so the BMV could make a translator available.
Starting March 29th, the BMV has a new exam provider that will administer an ASL version.
“There’s no changing plans having to coordinate a second visit but truly they can come in just as any other customer comes in and take their knowledge test,” said Steve Leak, Executive Director Credential Programs for the Indiana BMV.
Jonathon Henley, interpreter coordinator for Indy Translations and Language Center, believes this change will be a big help in the ASL community.
“If they don’t have an interpreter helping them communicate in the day-to-day lives, it can be extremely challenging, ’cause they don’t have access to clear effective communication,” said Henley. “It’s always good that they have an interpreter or somebody there helping them communicate.”
BMV officials say they hope this makes the process a little easier for those who need this type of assistance.
“Some deaf and hard of hearing, depending on when that occurred in their life, read and communicate through English,” said Leak. “Others need ASL and we just felt it was important to be able to offer the ASL on top of the written test that appears on the touch screen.”
Serbian, Hindu, Tagalog and Hindu will also be added as languages in which Indiana residents can take their driver’s license written exam.
