Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan Calls for English-Only Driver Knowledge Tests in Alberta

Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan has ignited a province-wide debate after calling for Alberta’s driver knowledge tests to be conducted only in English, arguing that motorists should be able to read and understand road signs before being granted a driver’s licence.

“You have to be able to read English signs,” McLellan said, stressing that the ability to understand written traffic instructions is essential for road safety and effective communication on Alberta’s roads. She suggested that the province should reconsider its current testing policies to ensure drivers can interpret important road information independently.

At present, Alberta allows individuals taking the Class 7 learner’s knowledge test to access audio translations in 25 different languages through government-approved headphones. Applicants whose preferred language is not among the available options may also be permitted to use an approved translator during the written examination process. McLellan’s comments have resonated with many Albertans who believe that reading English traffic signs is a fundamental requirement for safe driving. Supporters argue that construction notices, emergency warnings, detour instructions and other road signs often contain critical written information that drivers must understand immediately to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Others, however, have criticized the proposal, saying multilingual accommodations help newcomers integrate into Canadian society while they continue to improve their English skills. They argue that many traffic signs use universal symbols and that translation assistance for the written test provides equal access to licensing opportunities without compromising the practical road test requirements. The debate has quickly expanded beyond driver testing and into broader discussions about immigration, accessibility and public safety. While some residents are calling for stricter language standards to obtain a licence, others say Alberta’s multicultural reality requires policies that support newcomers as they establish their lives and careers in the province.

As of now, the Alberta government has not announced any plans to eliminate multilingual testing options. Any move toward English-only driver knowledge tests would require a formal policy review and changes to the province’s licensing regulations.

McLellan’s remarks have nevertheless sparked an intense public conversation, highlighting the challenge of balancing road safety concerns with inclusivity in one of Canada’s most diverse provinces.