How to Find a Sign Langauge Interpreter

To hire a qualified sign language interpreter, start your search as soon as you know you have a need, verify their credentials (Bachelor's degree and EIPA score of 4.0+), and contact specialized ASL interpreters directly rather than general spoken translation services.

I've watched organizations scramble at the last minute when a deaf person requests an interpreter, and it never ends well. They end up with no interpreter at all, or at least unqualified interpreters, frustrated deaf clients, and communication breakdowns that could have been easily avoided with proper planning.

The Biggest Mistake When Hiring Sign Language Interpreters

Not being prepared is the number one mistake I see organizations make. If you wait until a deaf person is already asking for an interpreter, you're in a pinch. Request an interpreter as soon as you know you'll need one.

Another critical error is hiring agencies that specialize in spoken language translation. This makes the request more difficult because sign language interpreting isn't their specialty. They take longer to respond and often lack qualified ASL interpreters. They most likely wont even have one available.

These agencies also send unqualified interpreters, such as students who aren't even certified. The result? Poor communication, unprofessional service, and potentially serious misunderstandings in critical situations.

Essential Qualifications to Look For

When you're looking to hire a qualified sign language interpreter, there are specific credentials that separate professionals from amateurs.

Ask if they have a Bachelor's degree in sign language interpreting. This foundational education ensures they understand both the linguistic and cultural aspects of deaf communication.

Inquire about their EIPA (Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment) score. Look for 4.0 or higher on this exam. It's a reliable indicator of their interpreting skills and language proficiency.

Ask about their full-time experience. You want someone with several years of professional practice, not someone just starting their career or working part-time. Also ask about additional certifications, as these demonstrate commitment to professional development.

You want a professional, not a hobbyist.

Red Flags: How to Spot Unqualified Interpreters

Fast and clear communication via call, text, or email is my first quality indicator. If an interpreter takes too long to get back to you, they aren't serious about their work.

Professional presentation matters more than you might think. Check their website to see how they present themselves. If you have dress code preferences for your specific setting, review their photos beforehand.

Watch for warning signs like unclear responses about qualifications, inability to provide certification numbers, or evasive answers about experience level. Student interpreters or uncertified practitioners often struggle to provide concrete details about their credentials.

Specialized Interpreting Requirements

For medical assignments, you need a medical sign language interpreter who is qualified and genuinely enjoys medical work. These interpreters understand complex medical terminology and can explain concepts accurately to deaf patients.

Legal interpreting requires finding someone actively seeking these assignments because they're qualified and enthusiastic about it. Legal terminology is highly specialized, and accuracy is critical.

Always verify that interpreters have specific experience in your required specialty. Ask for examples of similar assignments they've completed and how they stay current with field-specific terminology.

Step-by-Step Process to Hire the Right Interpreter

Start your search at least two weeks before your event or appointment. This timeline gives you options and prevents last-minute scrambling.

When contacting interpreters, provide complete information: date, time, location, type of assignment, expected duration, and any special requirements. The more details you provide upfront, the better they can assess if they're the right fit.

Confirm all details in writing, including backup plans if the interpreter becomes unavailable. Professional interpreters will provide clear confirmation and arrival procedures.

Ask about their preparation process - qualified interpreters often research terminology or context relevant to your assignment beforehand.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an ASL Interpreter?

ASL interpreter cost varies significantly based on location, assignment type, and interpreter experience. Expect to pay $100-150 per hour for most assignments, with medical and legal interpreting typically commanding higher rates.

Factors affecting pricing include an indistry standard 2 hour minimum, travel time, evening or weekend rates, and specialized subject matter. Rush requests or last-minute bookings often include additional fees.

Budget for potential overtime if your event runs long, and ask about cancellation policies upfront. Professional interpreters may charge cancellation fees for insufficient notice because they are piecing together a busy schedule of multiple small appointments all over Orange County.

Right vs. Wrong Interpreter Outcomes

Hiring the right interpreter means they arrive early, dress professionally, and facilitate clear communication between you and the deaf person. The interpreter becomes invisible, and communication flows naturally.

If you hire the wrong interpreter, they could be unprepared, unprofessional, late, inappropriately dressed, unable to understand the deaf person's language, or lack the knowledge to understand your content.

The outcome should be effective communication and a satisfied deaf person. When everything goes smoothly, you'll know you made the right choice.

Common Misconceptions

People think it's difficult to find an interpreter, but it's not if you;’re already on our website. If you’re in orange County, please fill our our Interpreter Request Form. We also offer virtual sign language interpreting services via Zoom and other platforms.

Another misconception is that deaf people don't need interpreters for simple communications. Professional interpreters ensure the most effective communication, regardless of how basic the interaction might seem.

Don't let cost concerns prevent you from hiring qualified interpreters. The expense of miscommunication - whether in legal liability, medical mistakes, or damaged relationships - far exceeds the cost of professional interpreting services.

Take Action Now

Don't wait until the last minute. Start your interpreter search now by contacting qualified agencies in your area or requesting an interpreter through our Interpreter Request Form. The deaf community you serve deserves professional, qualified interpretation and your organization deserves the peace of mind that comes with proper preparation.