How to Be a Registered Interpreter for the Deaf

Registered interpreters for the deaf help deaf people and hearing people communicate. They voice the words deaf people sign and sign the words hearing people speak. They work in a variety of settings, including health care facilities, courtrooms and other legal settings, schools and community events.

Step One

Earn an associate's degree in American Sign Language. To become a registered interpreter for the deaf, you must have at least an associate's degree. The degree does not have to be in American Sign Language but can be in absolutely any major; however, if you want to become an interpreter for the deaf, it just makes sense to earn your degree in American Sign Language.

Step Two

Continue your education and earn a bachelor's degree or master's degree if you like. While you can become a registered interpreter for the deaf with just an associate's degree, you'll learn more and improve your skills by continuing your education. You may also have more job opportunities and command a higher salary.

Step Three

Join the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf https://www.rid.org/acct-app/index.cfm?action=login.create. Only members in good standing can take the certification exam.

Step Four

Apply online to take the NIC (National Interpreter Certification) Knowledge exam, the written portion of the certification exam http://www.rid.org/education/testing/index.cfm/AID/86. Use a credit card to pay the examination fee. If you prefer, download an application and mail the complicated application and payment to R.I.D., Certification and Education Department, 333 Commerce Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Step Five

Sign up to take the written exam at a time and location of your choosing as soon as you receive notification that you have been approved to sit for the exam. You can sign up online http://www.rid.org/education/testing/index.cfm/AID/86. Pass the exam.

Step Six

Apply online to take the NIC (National Interpreter Certification) Performance exam, the portion of the certification exam in which you demonstrate your interpreting skills http://www.rid.org/education/testing/index.cfm/AID/86. Use a credit card to pay the examination fee. If you prefer, download an application and mail the complicated application and payment to R.I.D., Certification and Education Department, 333 Commerce Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Step Seven

Send a copy of your college transcript to R.I.D., Certification and Education Department, 333 Commerce Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. You may send either an official or unofficial transcript. A copy of your diploma will not suffice, however.

Step Eight

Sign up to take the performance exam at a time and location of your choosing as soon as you receive notification that you have been approved to sit for the exam. You can sign up online (see Resources). Pass the exam.

Sources:

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. http://www.rid.org/interpreting/new_to_interpreting/index.cfm . Getting Started.

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. http://www.rid.org/UserFiles/File/pdfs/Certification_Documents/NewEducationalRequirementsFAQ_090819.pdf . New Educational Requirements for RID Certification.