The Chamber of Deputies approved on May 19 a bill regulating the issuance of driver's licenses for people with hearing disabilities. The initiative, authored by Deputy Alejandro Aguilera, establishes uniform procedures nationwide for this population to obtain, renew, and rehabilitate their driving records, based on the principles of equality and non-discrimination.
During the discussion, Aguilera stated that there is currently “a lot of discretion” in granting licenses due to the lack of specific regulations. “In some municipalities they give them, in others they don't,” he said, advocating for clear rules to prevent discrimination and ensure autonomous mobility.
Deputy Arturo Urbieta, chair of the Public Health Committee, presented the committee's favorable opinion. He explained that the legislation provides for a comprehensive evaluation of candidates, including practical tests on public roads or closed circuits, general psychophysical tests, and specific assessments of perception and enhanced visual response, such as detecting signs, using mirrors, and performing maneuvers.
The bill also incorporates reasonable accommodations, such as specific rearview or panoramic mirrors in vehicles when necessary. Urbieta emphasized that the text expressly prohibits the automatic denial of a license based solely on the condition of hearing disability.
The proposal now goes to the Senate for analysis.