How to Become a Florida Certified Court Interpreter

Becoming a court interpreter in Florida involves several steps, including meeting eligibility requirements, passing exams, and completing training. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a Certified or Provisionally Approved Court Interpreter in Florida:

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To qualify as a court interpreter in Florida, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Be fluent in English and another language.
  • Have strong understanding of legal terminology and court procedures.

2. Attend an Orientation Workshop

You must complete a two-day (14-hour) Orientation Workshop approved by the Florida Court Interpreter Certification and Regulation Program (FCICRP).

Where to Find Workshops?

3. Pass the Written Exam

The written exam tests your knowledge in:

  • English proficiency
  • Court-related terminology
  • Professional ethics
  • Legal procedures

✅ You must pass with a score of at least 80%. Here is free resource to help prepare for it. 

4. Pass the Oral Performance Exam (for Certification)

The oral exam tests your ability to interpret in three modes:

  • Simultaneous interpretation
  • Consecutive interpretation
  • Sight translation

To help train for this visit, visit our exam prep resources page.

✅ You must score at least 70% on each section to be certified.

  • If you score 60%-69%, you can qualify as a Provisionally Approved Interpreter.

Note: If no exam is available for your language, you may need to complete an alternative assessment.

5. Submit a Background Check

  • You must undergo a criminal background check and provide fingerprints.

6. Take the Oath of Office

Once you pass the required exams and meet all conditions, you must sign an oath of office before interpreting in court.

7. Get Listed on the Florida Court Interpreter Registry

After completing the requirements, you will be added to the statewide registry of court interpreters, which allows courts to hire you for interpreting assignments.

8. Maintain Certification (Continuing Education)

To keep your certification active:

  • Complete 16 hours of Continuing Education every two years.
  • Pay any renewal fees required by the Florida Court Interpreter Program.

Optional: Gain Additional Certifications

  • You can become federally certified by passing the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Exam (FCICE).
  • This is useful for higher-level court cases and better job opportunities.

Where to Get More Information?

Visit the Florida Court Interpreter Certification and Regulation Program (FCICRP) website:
📌 https://www.flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Court-Interpreters

Would you like help finding upcoming exams or workshops? 😊

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