Learn How to Become a Court Interpreter in Washington

1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • Possess high proficiency in English and the target language.

For details, visit the Washington State Court Interpreter Program.

2. Attend an Orientation Workshop

  • Complete a mandatory orientation workshop that introduces candidates to the court system, the role of interpreters, ethical standards, and the interpreting process.

Check upcoming workshops here: Interpreter Orientation Schedule.

3. Pass Language Proficiency Exams

  • Written Exam: Tests knowledge of court-related terminology, English proficiency, and professional ethics. Free written exam training here. 

  • Oral Exam (for certified languages): Assesses simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, and sight translation skills. Free and premium training programs here. 

    • Certified Languages: Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Arabic, and others.
    • Registered Languages: For languages without an oral certification exam, candidates become "registered" instead.

See exam requirements: Interpreter Testing Information.

4. Submit Application and Background Check

  • Pass a criminal background check.
  • Submit an application to become a court interpreter.

Application forms are available here: Interpreter Application Process.

5. Complete Ethics Training

6. Maintain Certification/Registration

  • Complete continuing education requirements.
  • Renew certification/registration as required by the state.

For continuing education guidelines, visit: Interpreter Continuing Education.

Additional Resources


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