Wondering how to become a sign language interpreter? Interpreting is an excellent career to pursue because it offers a variety of exciting job opportunities and you get to be a part of the diverse Deaf community.
As an ASL interpreter, you get to be a mediator to a group of people that, otherwise, has struggles in completing everyday tasks such as going to the dentist or meeting up with a school counselor.
How to Become an ASL Translator
If you want to become an ASL translator, congratulations! There is a real need for more interpreters in the Deaf community. Here are four basic steps for how to become a sign language interpreter.
1. Master ASL
If you already know ASL, skip this step! If not, consider how you plan to learn American Sign Language. Will you take local or online classes, or would you rather work with a private tutor one-on-one? Remember to set aside a budget for acquiring your training. For example, working with a private tutor costs an average of $54/hour.
ASL can be a difficult language to learn at first because it has very different grammar rules than English. Fluency can take several years, but you should be able to have basic conversations within the first couple weeks of learning. Your exact time frame will largely depend on how much effort and time you can put into learning.
One way to speed up your progress is to get involved in the Deaf community. The Deaf community has an abundance of knowledge to share. They’ll be able to show you exactly what they need from you as an ASL interpreter.
Look up the Deaf chats in your area that take place at local libraries or coffee shops. Anyone who wants to practice signing (whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced) is welcome.
See Also: Little-Known Insights About Sign Language and Deaf Culture
2. Consider a Formal Education
Like the video below says, there are a couple different options for pursuing an education in sign language interpreting. Start by considering one of the interpreting training programs that city and state colleges offer.
You can either work toward an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s in Sign Language Interpreting. In most states, it’s required to have a degree in Interpreting – not just ASL or Deaf Studies. However there are some exceptions, for example, if you’re a child of a Deaf adult or a sibling of a Deaf adult.
Whether it’s required in your state or not, an interpreting training program is an excellent experience to have under your belt. It will help you not just learn the language, but practice the skills necessary to translate.
3. Get Certified
Different states have their own unique laws about the required licenses and certifications for an ASL translator. In many states, it’s required to at least have a state certification. In some states, you’ll just need a national certification, so it’s best to check your local laws.
For example, if you’re an ASL translator in Nebraska, you must pass a statewide screening test and be nationally certified. You may also need to have a degree in Sign Language Interpreting, depending on the state you live in.
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4. Find ASL Interpreter Jobs
There’s a variety of sign language interpreter jobs to choose from. Here are just a few:
Community interpreters for local agencies – Agencies get calls from doctors, dentists, schools, etc. that have a Deaf client in need of an interpreter. The agency will then assign a job to an interpreter.
School interpreters – These interpreters work full-time in a school, such as a Regional School for the Deaf. Some colleges and universities also hire ASL interpreters.
Video relay service interpreters – This type of interpreter works on video phones in an office or remotely. They answer and mediate calls between the hearing and the Deaf. (These jobs are in high demand!)
Medical interpreters and court certified interpreters – These specialized interpreters are typically required to have additional certifications.
Once you’ve decided which field you’d like to work in, research the companies that are hiring to learn more about the specific requirements for each role.
Need a visual reminder of these steps? Here’s a helpful infographic to keep you motivated!
Final Thoughts
One of the best tips for reaching your goal is to keep in mind that becoming a sign language interpreter isn’t going to happen over night. Remember to be patient with yourself and set reasonable expectations. Give yourself time to grow, and put as much effort and energy as you can into learning!
Jessica Dais