Interpreting in American Sign Language (ASL) is a rewarding and complex field. ASL interpreters facilitate communication in a range of contexts, including courts, businesses, hospitals, and schools, by acting as links between the Deaf and hearing communities. In addition to learning a visual language, becoming an ASL interpreter requires one to have a thorough understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Deaf community.
This article explores the training and licensing requirements for prospective ASL interpreters. We will discuss how to become a proficient and qualified ASL interpreter, from basic schooling to specialized certification. Understanding these prerequisites is crucial for success in the ASL interpretation industry, regardless of whether you are thinking about changing careers or want to improve your abilities in the area.
Educational Requirements for ASL Interpreters
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Typically, obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent, the GED, is the first step toward becoming an ASL interpreter. Aspiring interpreters would benefit from taking English, communication, and foreign language classes in high school since these subjects offer a solid foundation for comprehending language and communication dynamics.
Bachelor’s Degree in ASL Interpretation or Related Field
A bachelor’s degree is preferred by many employers and certification programs, though it is not always necessary. Aspiring ASL interpreters often major in linguistics, deaf studies, ASL interpretation, or related subjects. A bachelor’s degree promotes an understanding of Deaf culture in addition to offering in-depth knowledge of ASL, both of which are necessary for accurate interpretation.
Proficiency in ASL
For ASL interpreters, proficiency in ASL is a prerequisite. For admission, some programs might have a minimal requirement for ASL proficiency. The ability to communicate effectively in ASL is often required of applicants, who must showcase their skills in an interview or video submission.
Completion of an Interpreter Training Program (ITP)
Aspiring ASL interpreters are strongly encouraged to complete an interpreter training program (ITP). These courses provide in-depth instruction in cultural competency, ethics, and ASL interpreting techniques. ITPs give students practical experience in interpreting scenarios from the real world and can be offered at the associate or bachelor’s degree levels.
Certification Requirements for ASL Interpreters
Photo by Merve ÇAKIR
RID Certification
For ASL interpreters, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) offers multiple certification levels, each requiring unique requirements and tests:
- RID Certified Interpreter (CI): This is the fundamental certification for ASL interpreters. Candidates who want to work as CIs must pass a written exam measuring their expertise in best practices, ethics, and theory interpretation. Candidates must also show that they are proficient in both ASL and English interpretation.
- RID Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI): The CDI certification is intended for Deaf people who work as interpreters. Candidates who want to work as CDIs must pass a performance exam that assesses their proficiency in ASL and English interpretation. When cultural nuances and Deaf perspectives are important, CDIs are frequently used.
- RID Specialist Certificate: RID provides specialized certifications in a range of interpreting fields, including medical, legal, and educational interpreting. These certificates require additional training and exams specific to the chosen specialization.
After their RID certification expires, interpreters typically have four years to renew it by completing the required continuing education credits.
State Certification
There are many different state certification requirements for ASL interpreters. While some states may have additional education or training requirements, others may only require interpreters to pass a state-specific exam. State certification guarantees that interpreters are eligible to work in their home state and satisfy the requirements set by the state regulatory agency.
State certification is significant because it proves that interpreters have fulfilled the particular standards established by their state, which may include familiarity with state laws and rules about interpreting in addition to cultural competence when interacting with Deaf people in that state.
National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Certification
ASL interpreters can obtain nationally recognized certification from the National Association of the Deaf (NAD). A dedication to quality and professionalism in the ASL interpretation industry is demonstrated by NAD certification.
Passing an exam that assesses an interpreter’s proficiency in ASL, Deaf culture, and interpreting ethics is a prerequisite for NAD certification. Additionally, interpreters need to prove that they are proficient in both ASL and English interpretation.
Interpreters must fulfill continuing education requirements to renew their NAD certification, which is valid for a set amount of time, usually four years.
Continued Education
For ASL interpreters to keep up with industry best practices and retain their skills, ongoing education is crucial. In order to keep their certification, interpreters are frequently obliged to attend conferences, workshops, and continuing education classes.
Advanced interpreting techniques, cultural competence, ethics, and particular areas of specialization like legal or medical interpreting are examples of topics covered in continuing education courses. Interpreters can continue to give hearing and Deaf people alike high-quality services by keeping up with the most recent developments and trends in ASL interpretation.
Conclusion
It takes commitment, training, and certification to work as an ASL interpreter. Aspiring interpreters can lay a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in ASL interpretation by earning a bachelor’s degree, finishing an interpreter training program, and earning certification from associations such as RID and NAD. Making sure interpreters are qualified and certified is crucial to delivering high-quality interpretation services to both hearing and Deaf people, as the need for ASL interpreters keeps rising.
For those who are looking for additional support, Unspoken Language Services offers interpreting services to help bridge the communication gap between the deaf and hearing communities.
Thumbnail Photo Credit to: Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
