How to Become an Interpreter for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

With over 28 million deaf or heard of hearing Americans, the need for a communication avenue is very important. You can become an interpreter for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, giving them the same equal access and rights as full-hearing individuals and allowing them to participate in community and church activities.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Determine that this is the path for you. Proper interpreting takes time and patience to learn. As an interpreter, your job is to provide a service to consumers by using sign-to-voice skills and voice-to-sign skills.
2. Check your state's requirements to become an interpreter. Certain states have rules and regulations concerning the employ-ability of interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing. In Texas, interpreters must be certified by the Commission for The Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
3. Locate an American Sign Language course in your area. Colleges and universities may offer classes in sign language and interpreting for the deaf and hard of hearing. You can also visit the website of RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf), which offers lists of online training programs and local educational opportunities.
4. Attend and learn the program. Complete all the necessary courses to finish the program and receive your degree or certification of completion.
5. View professional interpreters in action. Learning from interpreters who are on the job is a great way to improve your skill. Ask questions of the interpreter after her session, if any arise.
6. Practice your interpreting. The more you practice, the better you'll learn. Put your practice to the test in a controlled environment, which allows you to receive feedback from the consumer.
7. Become certified. Whether your state mandates certification or not, your services will be considered reliable and dependable through your testing and continued commitment to the deaf and hard of hearing community.

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