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Locating Sign Language Interpreters in the U.S.

A Deaf girl is in the middle of a sign and appears to be asking a question of someone out of the frame of the picture.
A Deaf girl is in the middle of a sign and appears to be asking a question of someone out of the frame of the picture.

International exchange programs represent a unique opportunity for sign language interpreters to build cross-cultural interpretation skills and increase exposure to new environments and languages.

To find sign language interpreters, consider contacting interpreter referral services, interpreter training programs, speech and hearing centers, and Deaf schools and organizations.

Because exchange programs often involve long hours and unusual circumstances, interpreter fatigue can result in adverse effects on communication access for a Deaf or Hard of Hearing individual.

In order to ensure full communication access, you should use two interpreters on exchange programs that involve a Deaf or Hard of Hearing participant. Rotating between two interpreters ensures high quality services and also provides an alternative if the primary interpreter becomes ill.

In some cases, a single interpreter may work if other communication methods will be combined with interpreting.

The following websites are good places to start in locating American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters in the U.S.

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) is a national membership organization that plays a role in advocating for excellence in the delivery of interpretation and transliteration services between people who use sign language and people who use spoken language.

Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center State-by-State Resources

ZP Connect Need an interpreter? ZP Connect is available nationwide. Request on-site interpreting or Video Remote Interpreting (VRI).

National Cued Speech Association supports effective communication, language development, and literacy between individuals, families, infants, and children alike through the use of Cued Speech.

This article is part of the International Education Professional Pathway. While searching for interpreters, you want to have a way to make sure that candidates are qualified. In the next article we cover the types of qualifications to look out for when finding a good match for your interpreting needs.


Previous: Locating Sign Language Interpreters in Non-U.S. Countries

Next: Hiring Sign Language Interpreters

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