How to Become a Court Interpreter in Pennsylvania

Becoming a court interpreter in Pennsylvania involves a series of steps to ensure proficiency and adherence to professional standards. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Meet Basic Requirements

  • Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Legal Authorization: Have the legal right to work in the United States.
  • Language Proficiency: Demonstrate native-like fluency in English and another language, including reading and writing skills.

2. Register with the Interpreter Certification Program (ICP)

3. Attend a Mandatory Orientation Workshop

  • Workshop Details: Participate in a two-day orientation covering topics such as the role of interpreters, Pennsylvania's judicial system, ethics, and interpreting skills.
  • Registration and Fees: Register early, as sessions are limited to 50 participants. The fee is $150 for Pennsylvania residents and $175 for non-residents. More information is available on the Orientation Workshops page.

4. Pass the Written Examination

  • Exam Content: The written exam assesses English proficiency, knowledge of court-related terminology, and understanding of professional ethics.
  • Scheduling: Exams are held periodically; consult the Interpreter Program Calendar for dates and locations.
  • Free Training: Written Exam Preparation Course

5. Pass the Oral Proficiency Examination

  • Exam Components: The oral exam evaluates skills in simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, and sight translation.
  • Scoring: A minimum score of 70% in each section is required for certification.
  • Languages Tested: Full exams are available for languages including Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, and others. A complete list is provided on the Interpreter Certification page.
  • Preparation Resources: Court Interpreter Oral Exam Training Programs 

6. Undergo a Criminal Background Check

  • Requirement: All candidates must pass a background check to ensure eligibility.

7. Agree to the Interpreter Rules of Professional Conduct

  • Commitment: Interpreters must adhere to established ethical standards and professional responsibilities.

8. Certification and Inclusion in the Statewide Roster

9. Maintain Certification

  • Continuing Education: Complete 16 continuing education units every two years.
  • Renewal: Undergo periodic background checks and pay a $25 renewal fee biennially.

For detailed information on each step, refer to the Interpreter Certification Program page.

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