Becoming a certified Spanish interpreter

by Jennifer Calmo
(Loretto, Ky. usa)

Jennifer asked:I have been speaking Spanish for 13 years and I would really like to be certified. Can you please help me know what to do.



The Spanish Translator: Thanks for the question, Jennifer. Obviously you have many years speaking Spanish, as well as the desire to become an interpreter, which is great. There is more to be an interpreter, however, than just being able to speak the language. I've said it before that interpreting is a difficult profession, and even though I've never done it professionally, I have had the opportunity to do some practice interpreting and it can be pretty difficult.

However, don't let the fact that it is difficult keep you from pursuing it if that is your dream. Now, in terms of becoming a certified interpreter, the interpretation industry is a little more regulated than the translation industry. For example, if you want to become a federal court interpreter, the process for becoming certified is different than if you want to interpret at a different venue. For more information, be sure to check out more information on interpreter certification.