FAQs & Helpful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions*
- Q. What knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) are needed to become a certified court interpreter?
A. The following are some of the KSA’s needed: Mastery of both English and the foreign language in general and legal terminology; public speaking ; consecutive and simultaneous interpretation; sight translation.
- Q. My friend/family member needs an interpreter for their next court hearing, what should I do?
A. Well in advance, please contact your local courthouse or Elected Clerk of the district Court to make your request.
- Q. After I take the written or oral exam, how long before I receive the results?
A. Oral or written exam results are sent to the candidate by mail, 4-6 weeks after the exam date.
- Q. How long does it take to become a certified court interpreter?
A. The Idaho training for certification cycle is 9 months in length. An interpreter is considered certified only when they have passed the written and oral exams.
- Q. How much does it cost to become a certified court interpreter?
A. The current state sponsored training and exam costs are found on the registration forms and at isc.idaho.gov/court-interpreter/certification-training .
- Q. I need a legal document translated. Who do I contact?
A. Using the Idaho Supreme Court rosters, you can contact certified court interpreters for the language in question or search for a translator using a reputable source e.g. ATA or NAJIT
- Q. Is there an interpreter certification process for American Sign Language?
A. Since January 2016, the SC: L legal interpreter certification for American Sign Language interpreters has been under moratorium.
- Q. Is certification by reciprocity available in Idaho?
A. Yes. Follow the normal application process and include:
> Proof of attendance for a court interpreter orientation & ethics training/workshop.
> Proof of passing the written screening examination. (Minimum passing score: 80%)
> Proof of court interpreter certification (passing all three sections of the exam with a minimum of 70 percent).
> Proof of actively interpreting during the last 12 months.
*As of July 1, 2020, all information was accurate.
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