Becoming a Sign Language Interpreter: State vs. National Level
STATE-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS
Each state sets its own requirements for sign language interpreters, which may vary widely. However, common expectations include:
Typical State-Level Requirements:
- Educational background: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in interpreting or a related field (varies by state)
- State certification or licensure: Some states require a certification exam (e.g., Texas BEI, EIPA in educational settings)
- Background checks and fingerprinting
- Ethics training and professional conduct agreements
- Continuing Education: Ongoing professional development may be required to maintain licensure
Pros of State Certification:
- Allows interpreters to work locally, often in educational, medical, legal, or community settings
- Less expensive and faster to obtain than national certification
- May serve as a stepping stone to national certification
Limitations:
- Certification may only be valid in that state
- May not meet qualifications for federal or cross-state interpreting work
- Some specialized roles (e.g., legal interpreting) may require additional credentials
NATIONAL-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS
National certification is typically obtained through RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf), the recognized professional body in the U.S.
Typical National-Level Requirements (RID Certification):
- Bachelor’s degree (any field) is often required
- Completion of a rigorous interpreting training program
- Pass the NIC (National Interpreter Certification) exam:
- Written Test (ethics, linguistics, Deaf culture, and more)
- Performance Test (live interpreting scenarios)
- Adhere to RID’s Code of Professional Conduct
- Maintain certification through Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 4 years
Benefits of National Certification:
- Recognized across all states
- Qualifies interpreters for higher-paying, specialized, and federal jobs
- Demonstrates commitment to professional excellence
- Required for many jobs in healthcare, legal, postsecondary, and government settings
Challenges:
- Time-consuming and costly process
- Exams can be rigorous and require strong language proficiency in both ASL and English
- Ongoing CEUs and fees to maintain certification
Summary
| Feature | State-Level | National-Level (RID) |
|---|
| Scope | Local (in-state only) | National and federal |
| Credentialing Body | State-specific (e.g., BEI, EIPA) | Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) |
| Degree Requirement | Varies (some require none or AA) | Bachelor’s (any field) often required |
| Certification Exams | State exams (if any) | NIC: Written + Performance |
| Use Cases | Schools, community interpreting | Medical, legal, postsecondary, federal |
| Mobility | Limited to state | Nationwide portability |
