English – the (ONLY) Language for Florida Driver’s Exams Steven Saul February 13, 2026 9:23 am DeFuniak Springs, Government, State Government, Walton County In Brief: Florida driver’s license exams are now English-only, with no translation services available The rule applies to all applicants, including non-citizens and visa holders In Walton County, road tests are only offered in DeFuniak Springs The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) announced it will only administer the state’s driver’s license test in English. The change took place on February 6 and means translation services will no longer be available for the knowledge and skills examinations. Former Exam “Translator Component” Deleted  Mid Bay News contacted the Walton County Tax Collector’s Office and spoke with Chief Tax Collector Brian McBroom.  The Tax Collector’s office acts as a kind of subcontractor for the state and provides driver services for motorists in Walton County. McBroom confirmed that scheduled appointments made before the official announcement and system change were allowed to proceed under the prior language access, but now that the process is in place and the change is live, the process is unchanged.  The Chief Tax Collector said the statewide testing modification appears to be going smoothly in Walton County.  He reported, “No issues, no complaints.”   Mid Bay News asked about the impact on individuals entering the U.S. on a student visa (F-1 and M-1), B-1, and B-2 visas for business or tourism.  Does the rule for English-only written driver’s tests apply to them as well? ... Read More

Season 29 Of The Voice Is Shaping Up To Be Unlike Any Other Kelly Clarkson is making her long-awaited return to The Voice for Season 29, and she’s ready to win! Season 29 of The Voice will be unlike any other season fans have seen before. For starters, the season will only have three coaches […] More Country Music Nation  Read More

 [[{“value”:” Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) is clearing the stage for big laughs this March as it hosts the year’s first “Comedy on the Boulevard.” The one-night-only showcase brings together a trio of the Southeast’s most entertaining stand-up talents for an evening of quick wit and relatable storytelling. Scheduled for Thursday, March 12, at 7:00 P.M., the event promises to transform the professional theatre space into a relaxed, high-energy comedy club. “}]]  SoWal.com  Read More

 [[{“value”:” Alys Beach is set to host an evening of elegance and purpose this March, blending the art of fine spirits with a mission to support local healthcare. The Valor Tequila Dinner & Tasting Weekend kicks off on Friday, March 6, offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy world-class tequila while supporting the Point Washington Medical Clinic (PWMC). “}]]  SoWal.com  Read More

 [[{“value”:” South Walton is an enviable vacation spot — and just off the beach at the growing and vibrant Watersound Origins community you can live the life full time! Surrounded by majestic natural splendor and pristine beaches, Watersound Fountains at Watersound Origins is one of the most exclusive 62+ residential communities in the world. “}]]  SoWal.com  Read More

Luke Combs’ new song “Be By You” is the perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day playlist. Combs first teased his new song about a month ago, sharing a snippet of its audio on his Instagram page. Then, last week, he shared another clip of himself in the studio recording the track. View this post on […] More Country Music Nation  Read More