Essential Certifications for ASL and Spoken Medical Interpreters 2025
The role of interpreters in bridging communication gaps has become more important than ever, especially in fields such as healthcare. With the demand for interpreters projected to grow by 24% by 2030, obtaining the right certifications could be your key to unlocking career opportunities in this expanding industry. Whether you're an aspiring American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or spoken language interpreter looking to specialize in medical interpretation, the right credentials will set you apart.
Why Certifications Matter for Interpreters
Certifications validate your skills, bolster your credibility, and enhance your employability. They act as a testament to your commitment to quality and ethical standards while reassuring clients and organizations about your expertise. Furthermore, certifications are often prerequisites for job opportunities, especially for ASL medical interpreter positions.
Top ASL Certifications to Pursue in 2025
When it comes to working as an ASL interpreter, having nationally recognized credentials is essential. Here are the best certifications for 2025.
1. RID Certifications (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf)
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) offers some of the most comprehensive certifications in the field.
- CSC (Comprehensive Skills Certificate): Though no longer issued, holding this certificate indicates qualifications in both interpreting and transliteration skills.
- CI/CT (Certificate of Interpretation and Certificate of Transliteration): These separate yet complementary certifications validate skills in conveying spoken English into ASL and vice versa.
- NIC (National Interpreter Certification): A widely accepted credential, the NIC evaluates interpreting skills, ethical decision-making, and professionalism.
- CDI (Certified Deaf Interpreter): Designed for deaf interpreters, this certification focuses on cultural competency as well as interpreting skills.
2. BEI Advanced Certification
The Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) offers certifications for interpreters in specific states and regions. Their Advanced level ensures interpreters have mastered complex communication scenarios and are prepared to adjust their interpretation based on diverse audience needs.
3. NAD Certification (Level 4 and Above)
The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) certification is recognized for supporting interpreters who work within the Deaf community. A Level 4 or above indicates strong skills and competencies, making participants highly sought after in a variety of settings.
Top Spoken Medical Interpreter Certifications in 2025
Spoken medical interpreters serve as essential communicators between medical professionals and patients with limited English proficiency or communication barriers. Here are the most recognized certifications to consider for this niche.
1. CCHI Certification (Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters)
The CCHI offers two respected certifications tailored to healthcare interpreting professionals:
- CoreCHI: Focused on validating core competencies in professional conduct, cultural responsiveness, and interpreting protocols. It doesn’t require a language proficiency exam.
- CHI (Certified Healthcare Interpreter): Includes a language proficiency test and offers specialization for Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic interpreters.
2. NBCMI Certification (National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters)
The NBCMI is well-regarded in the healthcare industry. Its certification programs include:
- CMI (Certified Medical Interpreter): Specialization in languages such as Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, and others.
- Hub-CMI: For interpreters who want a core credential, this certification doesn’t yet include a language proficiency test.
3. 40-Hour Medical Interpreter Training
This foundational training is often a prerequisite for higher credentials like CCHI and NBCMI. Many employers view this as a basic qualification for entry into medical interpreting.
How to Choose the Right Certification
1. Find the Certification for Your Language
Certifications are not available for all languages. Find out what certifications are available for your language pair as a starting point.
2. Evaluate the Requirements
Each certification comes with its own prerequisites and training requirements. For example, the RID NIC certification requires professional experience, an RID membership, and passing both a knowledge and a performance test. Make sure to account for training hours, language proficiency assessments, and other obligations when planning your path.
3. Know the Advantages
Being certified can propel your medical interpreter career forward.
Find the Perfect Medical Interpreter Job with AMN Healthcare
Certified ASL and spoken medical interpreters are in high demand, and AMN Healthcare is here to connect you with the best opportunities.
Why Choose AMN Healthcare?
Here you can enhance your career while making a meaningful impact on patient care:
- Hospitals, trauma centers, and clinics
- Telehealth platforms offering video remote interpreting (VRI)
- Patient advocacy programs
- Home healthcare services
Take the First Step
Are you ready to build an impactful career as an ASL or medical interpreter? Explore organizations that support your goals, like the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI).
Looking for more insights on interpreter certifications and jobs? Visit AMN Healthcare’s Language Services division for expert guidance, browse our blog for career tips tailored to interpreters, or connect with an AMN Healthcare recruiter to explore exciting career opportunities.
