Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The OJD does not provide any training on how to interpret; the training that is provided is mainly for continuing education for already credentialed interpreters.

Please send Court Language Access Services an email to Court.Interpreter.Program@ojd.state.or.us with your complete name, mailing address, any other pertinent email addresses and phone number(s), as well as what languages you speak, so that we can send you the appropriate information.

No. Certified court interpreters are highly skilled professionals who are able to perform well in the three modes of interpretation: simultaneous, consecutive, and sight. A court interpreter must have knowledge of court procedures, protocols and apply ethical standards required by the “Code of Professional Responsibility for Interpreters in the Oregon Courts.”

In keeping with the serious and professional nature of court business, please come to your assignment dressed conservatively. Appropriate attire for women is a dress, a suit, or conservative blouse with a skirt or slacks. Short skirts and low cut or sleeveless dresses or blouses are not appropriate. Appropriate attire for men is a suit, or a jacket or blazer with a dress shirt, tie and slacks. Jeans are not appropriate attire for a courtroom.

An Oregon Certified Interpreter has achieved appropriate examination scores on a court interpreting exam and has fulfilled other requirements established by the State Court Administrator according to ORS 45.291. Interpreters who do not hold the Oregon Certified Court Interpreting Credential have not had their interpreting skills formally tested.

While demand depends on the language, there isn't enough demand to make court interpreting full-time work for any language (Spanish might be the exception). However, we strongly encourage you to supplement your court interpreting with other types of interpreting, such as attorney office visits, depositions, medical interpreting and school interpreting. Not only do these assignments provide additional income, but they give you practice and experience in interpreting.

OJD Certified Spoken Language Court Interpreter: $50/hour
OJD Certified ASL Court Interpreter: $65/hour
OJD Registered Court Interpreter: $37/hour
Non-Certified Interpreter (must be conditionally approved): $30/hour

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I want to learn how to interpret; do you provide any of that kind of training?

How do I start the process to become a court interpreter?

Is being bilingual sufficient to meet the standard to interpret court proceedings?

How should I dress for court?

What is the difference between an Oregon Certified Interpreter and an in interpreter who is not certified in the State of Oregon?

What is the job market like for court interpreters?

How much do court interpreters get paid?