Can You Get A Driver's License If You Are Deaf?
There are misconceptions about whether the hearing impaired can drive, let alone have a driver’s license. There have also been questions like, "Since you need to hear horns to drive a car, will a deaf driver get in trouble if found driving? Can you hire deaf drivers?" Well, the answer to those is simple.
Deaf people can drive whenever they want and are allowed to get their driver’s licenses. This is because a hearing impairment does not hinder one’s ability to steer the car, change gears, see oncoming cars and pedestrians, and step on the gas. However, if you are hard of hearing, there are certain precautions to take when driving. We will discuss all that in the article.
Deaf driving laws and all you need to know
In the 1920s, many states in the United States had started implementing their first motor vehicle laws prohibiting deaf drivers. Experts had to educate the general public that the hearing impaired are just as good at driving as hearing drivers and sometimes better. This is because hearing impairment improves peripheral vision, making deaf people seemingly better at driving.
For so many people, it is still confusing that all 50 states of the United States have now given the go-ahead for deaf people to drive and get driver’s licenses. They wonder if they will be able to hear emergency sirens or hear horns from other drivers.
The simple fact is that several hearing aids, light signals, electronic devices, and rules help deaf person drive safely. You may also wonder how the police can communicate with deaf drivers if they are pulled over.
Even though this rarely happens since deaf people drive more carefully than hearing drivers, most deaf drivers carry state-issued cards that say, "I am deaf or hard of hearing." This shows the police officers that they need to communicate with them appropriately.
The driver’s license will also carry a numerical code or the international symbol of the deaf. This helps police officers treat them more peculiarly than hearing people by writing notes or using signals.
Requirements and restrictions for a deaf driver applying for a driver’s license
Deaf drivers must go through the same steps as hearing people to get their driver’s licenses. Well, are there hearing-impaired driving restrictions? Yes, there are.
Deaf people must take driving lessons after getting their learner’s permit and then take a pre-licensing course. After all that, they must also inform their local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) of their hearing impairment.
After thorough assessments, the DMV will decide if to issue a hearing aid or full-view mirror restrictions on their license card. It is required that deaf people must always have full-view mirrors in and outside their cars to help them see all their sides and ensure public safety.
Many other deaf driver safety habits must be adhered to. For example, deaf drivers should always use a hearing aid if they must drive. Also, while it is not compulsory, deaf drivers can attend schools for the deaf to take safety education programs.
Can a deaf person drive a commercial vehicle?
Commercial vehicles are way more demanding to drive than personal cars. It is more than responding to flashing lights, staying observant to hear sirens, and having a good sense of the road or hearing sounds. Driving a commercial car or truck involves interacting with either passengers or colleagues.
In 2013, the United States DOT (Department of Transportation) finally agreed that deaf drivers could begin to drive commercial vehicles such as buses and trucks. This is a result of the NAD (National Association of the Deaf) sending tons of applications for the organization to exempt many drivers from the hearing standard that has barred deaf drivers for years.
Driving precautions for drivers with hearing loss
Although deaf drivers are reported to have better peripheral vision than hearing people, some cues must be observed if you don’t want to raise safety concerns as you drive. Below are some of them:
1. Remove all visual distractions
Drivers with hearing loss must understand that all they have while driving are their eyes. Whatever hinders your ability to focus must be removed from sight. Keep your eyes on the road for signal lights and other visual cues.
2. Pay close attention to signal lights
Since deaf drivers cannot hear audible cues, signal lights are there to act as guides. It is crucial to be attentive to signal lights as they guide you when there is an emergency. They also let you know what actions other drivers want to take.
Emergency vehicles, for example, will cue you when you need to slow down to allow them to perform their duties.
3. Use a hearing aid and get regular checkups
Always have your hearing aid on as you drive. This is because you may be held liable if found driving without it, especially while driving commercial vehicles. Ensure that your hearing aid is working perfectly. Also, carry extra batteries if there is a need to change them.
4. Rely on visible cues
There are signs and lights to guide you when you drive. This is why attending a deaf driving school is crucial to help you understand what all the road signs say. It is also essential to constantly check your mirrors to help you see vehicles coming behind you to help you steer more carefully.
Conclusion
Deaf drivers are allowed to get a driver’s license in all 50 states in the United States but have to adhere to specific regulations. Ensure to have your hearing aid at all times and pay attention to all visual cues to stay safe while driving.
