Organizations like RID (Registry of Interpreters for Deaf) and VDDHH provide online directories to help people find sign language interpreters. They also provide other information on working with professional sign language interpreters. The links below will take you to more information about local, state, regional, national, international or online organizations that focus on sign language interpreting or that may be able to refer you to an interpreter in your area.
Interpreters in our area of Virginia all work as independent contractors. To hire one, it is necessary to call each one individually near to you to see if they are available for your appointment time. If they are available, you can ask about their rates and billing policies, and agree on terms. There are very few interpreters in our area of the state, and they are in very high demand. Please call to arrange an interpreter as far ahead of time as possible. Planning two weeks or more in advance will improve your chances of locating someone.
The interpreter will also need to know the specifics of the assignment, including the deaf consumer, the subject matter, the length of the assignment, billing requirements and address, etc.
Below you'll find a button to take you to the VDDHH's Interpreter lists. Pay close attention to certifications like VQAS and National Certification. VQAS Screening level I or II is for use in non-critical situations only.
Communication Access Real-Time Translation provides real-time transcriptions of lectures, meetings, conferences, town hall meetings, performances and more via equipment that captures the sound coming through the speaker’s microphone and displays the written text on two large computer monitors placed at either end of the room or auditorium.
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Communication Access Real-Time (CART) services are essential for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, but can’t understand sign language, or who aren’t fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
For more information click the button below.
