Most cab drivers in NYC come from someplace else, they are not native-born Americans. Based on my experience, most come from Muslim countries. It is a rare thing to actually get an American born cab driver.
Via Daily Mail:
The average New York City taxi driver may still be sassy, but will not be required to speak English any longer.
The change is the result of a new law that Mayor Bill DeBlasio signed in April and went into effect on Friday eliminating the English proficiency exam for taxi and for-hire vehicle drivers.
It is the latest big change for cab drivers as policymakers and regulators try to adapt the city’s requirements to demographic and technological changes.
The legislation created a single license for all taxicab and for-hire vehicles and eliminated the English language proficiency test, according to a New York City Council website.
HT: Mandy Manners