Navigating Sign Language Interpreter Certification Requirements in the U.S.
Introduction
As the need for accessibility and inclusion grows across the United States, the demand for
qualified sign language interpreters continues to rise. Interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring
that Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals have equitable access to communication in settings
ranging from classrooms and courtrooms to hospitals and government agencies.
If you’re considering a career as a sign language interpreter, it’s important to understand the
certification requirements involved. These can vary depending on the state, setting, and type of
interpreting. Here’s a breakdown of the general certification pathways and requirements to help
you get started.
- Understanding the Role of Certification
Certification verifies that an interpreter meets professional standards in both language fluency
and ethical conduct. While not always legally required, certification is often essential for
employment—especially in legal, educational, and medical settings.
- National Certification through RID
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) is the leading national certifying body in the
U.S. RID certification is considered the gold standard for interpreters.
Common RID Certifications:
● NIC (National Interpreter Certification): For interpreters who demonstrate proficiency
in American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken English in general settings.
● CDI (Certified Deaf Interpreter): For Deaf or hard-of-hearing interpreters who work with
clients who have unique language needs.
● SC:L (Specialist Certificate: Legal): For those interpreting in legal settings (Note: no
longer offered, but still recognized).
Requirements for RID Certification:
● A bachelor’s degree (any field, as of recent changes).
● Completion of an interpreter education program or equivalent experience.
● Passing the NIC Knowledge and Performance exams.
● Adherence to RID’s Code of Professional Conduct.
- State-Level Requirements
Some states have additional or separate requirements for interpreters, especially in regulated
settings like education or courtrooms.
Examples:
● Texas: Requires interpreters to be certified through the Board for Evaluation of
Interpreters (BEI).
● California: Educational interpreters must pass the Educational Interpreter Performance
Assessment (EIPA) with a minimum score, and the state may require additional training
hours.
● New York: Legal interpreters must register with the court system and may need RID or
equivalent certification.
Always check your state’s Department of Education, Health, or Court Administration for up-to-
date requirements.
- EIPA: Educational Interpreting
The Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) is commonly used to assess
K–12 interpreters’ proficiency. While not a national certification, many states require EIPA
certification for interpreters working in schools.
Requirements:
● Passing the EIPA written and performance tests.
● Minimum score requirements vary by state (typically 3.5–4.0 out of 5).
- Continuing Education & Ethics
Most certification bodies require ongoing professional development. RID, for example,
mandates continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain certification. Interpreters must also
commit to ethical standards, such as confidentiality, impartiality, and cultural respect.
- Pathways to Certification
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Learn ASL: Take courses or attend a program accredited by the Commission on
Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE).
- Complete Interpreter Training: Many community colleges and universities offer ASL-
English interpreting programs.
- Gain Experience: Volunteer or work in entry-level interpreting roles or mentorships (this
may not be accessible depending on your state’s certification requirements).
- Pass Certification Exams: Register for RID, EIPA, or state-specific exams.
- Stay Certified: Fulfill ongoing education and renewal requirements.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified sign language interpreter is both a professional and personal journey that
requires dedication, cultural competency, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Whether you’re
drawn to community, medical, educational, or legal interpreting, certification opens the door to
more job opportunities—and more importantly, helps ensure equitable communication for all.
