Arizona State Licensed Interpreters

The law that established licensing — A.R.S. 36-1971 – was passed by Arizona voters in 2000. It is designed to create a statewide standard for sign language interpreters. This not only helps the state’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing, but also provides interpreters helpful guidelines

When does this law become effective?
October 1, 2007Anyone who wants to work as an interpreter in Arizona must have a license by this date.

What happens if you are not licensed by October 1, 2007?
Individuals who do not have a license on October 1, 2007, must not interpret in Arizona (penalties may apply). You may apply for a license at any time.

Is anyone exempt from this law?
There are some interpreters who are not required to be licensed. They include:

  • Educational interpreters K-12 who are interpreting in accordance with a student’s Individualized Education Plan
  • Interpreters interpreting in religious settings
  • Anyone interpreting during an emergency
  • Anyone interpreting on a volunteer basis

There are different categories for licenses
Legal: An individual who is qualified by education, examination and work history to provide interpreting in a legal setting.
General: An individual who provides interpreting in any community setting for which the individual is qualified by education, examination and work history.
Provisional: An individual who is qualified by education, examination and work history to provide interpreting while pursuing RID certification.

(source: Arizona commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. www.acdhh.org)