SDIA - Pathway to Interpreting

BECOME A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER IN SOUTH DAKOTA

COMMUNICATION. ACCESS. IMPACT.

Sign language interpreters bridge communication between Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing individuals. They work in schools, hospitals, businesses, courtrooms, government agencies, community events, video relay services, and countless other settings.

Every day is different. One day you may be interpreting a college lecture, and the next you may be supporting a medical appointment, business meeting, or community event.

Whether you are exploring a new career, changing professions, or already learning American Sign Language (ASL), South Dakota offers multiple pathways into the interpreting profession.

READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE!

IS INTERPRETING RIGHT FOR YOU?

SUCCESSFUL INTERPRETERS OFTEN POSSESS...

You do not need to know everything on day one. In fact, most successful interpreters begin with nothing more than a curiosity about language, a desire to connect with others, and a passion for helping people communicate. Becoming a professional interpreter is a journey that takes time, dedication, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Along the way, you will develop the linguistic skills, cultural knowledge, ethical decision-making abilities, and professional competencies necessary to provide effective communication access. Through education, mentorship, hands-on experience, and engagement with the Deaf community, you will gain the tools needed to navigate a wide variety of interpreting settings with confidence and professionalism.

The pathway outlined below is designed to guide aspiring interpreters through each stage of professional development. By following these steps, you can build a strong foundation and develop the skills needed to serve South Dakota's Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing communities while making a meaningful impact through communication access.

PATHWAYS TO BECOMING AN INTERPRETER IN SOUTH DAKOTA

Becoming a professional sign language interpreter is a journey that combines language learning, cultural understanding, education, hands-on experience, and professional development. While every interpreter's path is unique, the steps below provide a roadmap for building the knowledge and skills needed to serve South Dakota's Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing communities.

Every interpreter's journey is unique, but the pathway below provides a roadmap to becoming a professional interpreter in South Dakota. Click on each step below to expand the section and learn more about the education, training, resources, and opportunities available at every stage of your journey.

Step 1: Explore and Get Started

Every interpreter begins by developing strong language skills. American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete and complex visual language with its own grammar, structure, and cultural significance. Learning ASL requires more than memorizing signs - it involves understanding Deaf culture, communication norms, and the lived experiences of Deaf individuals.

Ways to Start Learning ASL

Take ASL classes in high school
Enroll in college-level ASL courses
Participate in community education programs
Attend Deaf community events
Practice regularly with fluent signers
Watch ASL content and educational videos

Recommended Resources

Your Goal

Build conversational ASL skills while developing relationships within the Deaf community. Language fluency and cultural competence grow best through consistent interaction with Deaf individuals.

Step 2: Build Your Foundation

Learning ASL is only the beginning. To become an effective interpreter, it is essential to continue developing your language skills while building meaningful relationships within the Deaf community. Language and culture are deeply connected, and some of the most valuable learning experiences happen outside of the classroom.

The Deaf community is the heart of the interpreting profession. By engaging with Deaf individuals and participating in community events, you will gain a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, communication styles, values, traditions, and lived experiences. These experiences help build the cultural competence that is critical for successful interpreting.

Ways to Strengthen Your Skills

Attend Deaf community events and gatherings
Participate in Deaf social activities
Join ASL conversation groups
Volunteer at Deaf community organizations and events
Watch ASL stories, vlogs, and presentations
Practice regularly with fluent Deaf signers
Seek feedback from Deaf community members
Continue taking ASL courses and workshops

Why Community Involvement Matters

Interpreters serve the Deaf community, and the best interpreters are those who actively engage with and learn from that community. Building relationships with Deaf individuals provides opportunities to improve receptive and expressive language skills while gaining firsthand knowledge of Deaf culture and perspectives.

Your Goal

Develop strong ASL fluency, increase your understanding of Deaf culture, and become an active member of the community you hope to serve. These experiences will create a strong foundation for future interpreter training, mentorship, and professional practice.

Step 3: Get Trained

Once you have developed a strong foundation in ASL and built meaningful connections within the Deaf community, the next step is to pursue formal interpreter education through an Interpreter Training Program (ITP). These programs are specifically designed to prepare future interpreters with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed to provide effective communication access across a variety of settings.

Aspiring interpreters are strongly encouraged to seek accredited or well-established programs that align with industry standards and best practices. Quality interpreter education programs provide a comprehensive curriculum that combines language development, interpreting theory, ethics, Deaf culture, and supervised field experiences.

What You'll Learn

Interpreter Training Programs typically focus on:

Advanced ASL and English language skills
Interpreting and transliterating techniques
Consecutive and simultaneous interpreting
Professional ethics and decision-making
Deaf culture and Deaf history
Interpreting in educational, community, medical, and legal settings
Professional standards and practices
Practicum and internship experiences

Degree Considerations

Many employers and credentialing organizations either require or strongly prefer interpreters to hold a bachelor's degree. While some educational pathways begin with an associate degree, pursuing a bachelor's degree can expand employment opportunities and help prepare interpreters for advanced certifications and leadership roles within the profession.

Prospective interpreters should carefully research the educational requirements associated with their desired career path and credentialing goals before selecting a program.

Interpreter Training Programs

There are many ITPs available both in-person and online. Below is a list of a few prominent ones.

Augustana University

Located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Augustana University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sign Language Interpreting. Students receive instruction in ASL, Deaf culture, interpreting theory, ethics, and professional practice while engaging directly with the Deaf community. As South Dakota's only four-year interpreter education program, Augustana serves as an important pathway for students interested in pursuing interpreting careers within the region.

Rochester Institute of Technology/National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID)

One of the nation's most recognized interpreter education programs, offering bachelor's and master's level options with extensive Deaf community engagement.

St. Catherine University

Offers a Bachelor of Arts in ASL and Interpreting with strong emphasis on language development, cultural competency, and professional preparation.

University of Northern Colorado

Provides a Bachelor of Arts in ASL-English Interpretation focused on preparing graduates for a variety of professional interpreting settings.

Finding Accredited Programs

The Commission on Collegiate Interpreter Education (CCIE) accredits interpreter education programs throughout the United States and maintains a current list of accredited programs.

Your Goal

Graduate from a quality interpreter education program with the language proficiency, cultural competency, ethical foundation, and interpreting skills necessary to move into practicum experiences, mentorship, credentialing, and professional practice.

Step 4: Gain Experience

Learning about interpreting in a classroom is important, but becoming a successful interpreter requires practical experience. This stage of your journey is where you begin applying the language, cultural knowledge, and interpreting skills you've developed through education and community involvement.

Through observation, volunteering, mentorship, and supervised practice opportunities, you will gain exposure to real-world interpreting environments and begin developing the confidence, professionalism, and decision-making skills necessary for professional practice.

Observe Professional Interpreters

One of the best ways to learn is by observing experienced interpreters in action. Observation opportunities allow you to see how interpreters navigate different settings, manage ethical decisions, work as part of a team, and adapt to a variety of communication styles.

Potential observation settings include:

Educational environments
Community events
Religious services
Public meetings
Workshops and conferences
Interpreting team assignments

Always obtain appropriate permissions and follow confidentiality requirements before participating in observation activities. Get in touch with local agencies and/or interpreters to inquire about observation opportunities.

Volunteer and Build Community Connections

Volunteering provides opportunities to strengthen your ASL skills while building relationships within the Deaf community. While volunteer opportunities should not replace professional interpreting services, they can offer valuable experiences in leadership, event coordination, and community engagement.

Consider becoming involved with:

Deaf community events
Deaf advocacy organizations
ASL social gatherings
Community service projects
Youth programs serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals

These experiences help develop cultural competency while expanding your professional network.

Participate in Mentorship

Mentorship is one of the most effective ways to accelerate professional growth. Working with an experienced interpreter allows you to receive individualized feedback, identify areas for improvement, and develop professional goals.

Mentorship opportunities may include:

Language development support
Interpreting skill assessments
Feedback on recorded work
Certification preparation
Professional guidance and career planning
Specialized skill development

South Dakota Resources

South Dakota Interpreter Mentoring Program (IMP)

The South Dakota Interpreter Mentoring Program provides structured mentoring opportunities for interpreters at various stages of professional development. Participants work with experienced mentors to strengthen interpreting skills, prepare for certification, and develop professionally.

The program offers:

Individualized mentoring plans
Skill assessments
Deaf mentor opportunities
Certification preparation
Ongoing professional support

Learn more through the South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services.

South Dakota Interpreters Association (SDIA)

The South Dakota Interpreters Association provides opportunities to connect with interpreters across the state through workshops, conferences, networking events, and professional development activities.

Through SDIA, aspiring interpreters can:

Build professional relationships
Find mentorship opportunities
Attend workshops and conferences
Learn about current trends in the profession
Connect with interpreters working in various specialties

South Dakota Association of the Deaf (SDAD)

Engaging with the Deaf community is an essential part of interpreter development. SDAD hosts events and activities that provide opportunities to learn from and build relationships with Deaf community members throughout South Dakota.

Dakotalink and South Dakota Association of the Deaf-Blind

These organizations frequently host educational events, trainings, and community activities that can help aspiring interpreters learn more about communication access and the diverse needs of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals.

Your Goal

Apply what you've learned through observation, mentorship, and community engagement while continuing to strengthen your language and interpreting skills. These experiences will help prepare you for credentialing, employment opportunities, and a successful career serving South Dakota's Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing communities.

Step 5: Earn Credentials

Professional credentials demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and readiness to provide interpreting services. Earning a credential is an important milestone in your journey and can open doors to employment opportunities in educational, community, medical, legal, and specialized interpreting settings.

South Dakota recognizes several credentialing pathways for interpreters. The credential that is right for you will depend on your career goals, work setting, and professional experience.

Credentials Recognized in South Dakota

Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA)

The EIPA is commonly pursued by interpreters working in K-12 educational settings. South Dakota recognizes an EIPA score of 3.5 or higher for interpreter registration purposes.

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)

RID credentials are nationally recognized and demonstrate professional competency in ASL-English interpreting. RID's National Interpreter Certification (NIC) is one of the most widely recognized credentials in the profession.

Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI)

The BEI system provides performance-based interpreter certification assessments that are recognized by several states, including South Dakota.

National Association of the Deaf (NAD)

South Dakota recognizes NAD certifications at Level III or higher. While NAD no longer issues new interpreter certifications, individuals who previously earned qualifying NAD credentials may continue to use them for registration purposes.

Provisional Certification

South Dakota also offers a Provisional Certification pathway for individuals who have completed an accredited Interpreter Training Program and are actively working toward obtaining a nationally recognized credential. This pathway allows aspiring interpreters to begin gaining professional experience while continuing to develop their skills and pursue certification.

Interpreter Testing Reimbursement Program

The cost of certification exams and performance assessments can be a significant barrier for aspiring interpreters. To help address this challenge, South Dakota offers an Interpreter Testing Reimbursement Program for eligible South Dakota residents.

Through this program, interpreters may be eligible for reimbursement of certain testing-related expenses associated with obtaining professional credentials. The program is designed to encourage interpreter development and increase the number of qualified interpreters serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals throughout South Dakota.

Reimbursement opportunities may be available for examinations associated with:

RID certification
EIPA assessments
BEI certification testing
Other approved credentialing examinations

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements established by the South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services.

Degree Requirements and Credentialing

Some credentialing organizations and certification pathways may require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree or meet specific educational requirements before becoming eligible for certification. Because credentialing requirements can change over time, aspiring interpreters should review the current eligibility requirements of the credentialing agency before planning their educational pathway.

Your Goal

Earn a professional credential that aligns with your career goals and demonstrates your competency as an interpreter. Professional credentials not only increase employment opportunities but also help ensure that Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals receive high-quality communication access throughout South Dakota.

Step 6: Grow and Specialize

Becoming credentialed is not the end of your journey—it's the beginning of a rewarding and evolving career. The most successful interpreters are lifelong learners who continually expand their knowledge, refine their skills, and explore new areas of practice.

As you gain experience, you may discover settings, populations, or subject areas that align with your interests and strengths. Professional growth allows you to increase your expertise, broaden your opportunities, and provide higher-quality communication access to the communities you serve.

Continue Your Professional Development

Interpreters in South Dakota are required to complete continuing education to maintain registration and stay current with evolving best practices, industry standards, and language trends.

Professional development opportunities may include:

Workshops and webinars
State and national conferences
Specialized training programs
Professional mentoring
Deaf community events
Leadership opportunities
Academic coursework
Independent study

Explore Specialized Areas of Interpreting

Many interpreters choose to develop expertise in one or more specialized areas of practice. Specialized interpreters often pursue additional training, mentorship, and continuing education to build competency in these settings. Explore various settings below.

Become Involved in the Profession

Professional involvement helps interpreters stay connected, contribute to the field, and build meaningful relationships with colleagues and community members.

Consider becoming involved with:

The South Dakota Interpreters Association (SDIA)
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
The South Dakota Association of the Deaf (SDAD)
Local and regional interpreter organizations
Mentoring programs
Conference planning committees
Board and leadership positions

Give Back Through Mentorship

As your experience grows, you may choose to support the next generation of interpreters by serving as a mentor, presenter, workshop facilitator, or advocate. Many experienced interpreters find that teaching and mentoring others is one of the most rewarding aspects of their careers.

Your Goal

Continue growing as a professional, explore areas of specialization that align with your interests, and become an active contributor to the interpreting profession. The learning never stops, and each new experience helps you become a more skilled, knowledgeable, and effective interpreter serving South Dakota's Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing communities.

Step 7: Make an Impact

Congratulations - you've reached the final step in your journey. After developing your ASL skills, engaging with the Deaf community, completing interpreter education, gaining practical experience, earning credentials, and continuing your professional growth, you are ready to do what interpreters do best: create communication access.

Every day, sign language interpreters help ensure that Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals have equal access to education, healthcare, employment, government services, community events, and everyday conversations. Through your work, you help remove communication barriers and create opportunities for individuals to fully participate in all aspects of life.

South Dakota Needs Interpreters

The need for qualified interpreters exists throughout South Dakota. While larger communities such as Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Brookings, Watertown, and Pierre often have ongoing interpreting needs, many rural communities face significant challenges in securing qualified interpreters.

As a result, interpreters are needed in virtually every region of the state to provide communication access in:

Schools and universities
Hospitals and healthcare facilities
Mental health services
Government agencies
Employment and workforce settings
Courtrooms and legal proceedings
Religious organizations
Community events and public programs
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) and Video Relay Services (VRS)

Whether working in person or remotely, interpreters play a critical role in ensuring South Dakotans can access the information, services, and opportunities they need.

Your Work Matters

Interpreting is more than a profession - it's a service that changes lives. Every assignment represents an opportunity to foster understanding, build connections, and support equal access.

As an interpreter, you may help:

A student access classroom instruction
A patient understand a medical diagnosis
A parent advocate for their child
An employee succeed in the workplace
A community member participate in civic life
A family celebrate important milestones

These moments happen every day, and interpreters make them possible.

Build a Career with Purpose

Few careers offer the opportunity to make such a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of others. Interpreters combine language, culture, and professional expertise to help ensure that communication is accessible to everyone.

Whether you choose to work in education, healthcare, community settings, legal environments, or remote interpreting, your skills can make a lasting difference for individuals, families, and communities throughout South Dakota.

Your Goal

Use your knowledge, skills, and passion to provide communication access and create positive change throughout South Dakota. The state continues to need dedicated, qualified interpreters who are committed to serving Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing individuals alike.

Your journey may begin with learning a few signs, but it can lead to a career that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and makes South Dakota a more accessible place for all.

EXPLORE INTERPRETING SPECIALTIES

Educational interpreters work in:

K–12 schools
Early childhood programs
Colleges and universities

Responsibilities include:

Interpreting classroom instruction
Facilitating communication between students and staff
Supporting access to extracurricular activities
Collaborating with educational teams

Common Credentials

Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA)
Must have a 3.5 or higher to register in South Dakota
South Dakota Provisional Certification
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Must have a Level III or higher

Community interpreters provide services in everyday settings such as:

Government offices
Employment meetings
Community programs
Social service agencies
Public events

This area offers diverse experiences and flexible opportunities.

Common Credentials

South Dakota Provisional Certification
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Must have a Level III or higher

Technology has created opportunities for interpreters to work remotely.

Services include:

Video Relay Service (VRS)
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)

These positions often provide:

Flexible schedules
Remote work opportunities
Exposure to a wide variety of assignments

Common Credentials

Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA)
South Dakota Provisional Certification
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Must have a Level III or higher

Medical interpreters work in:

Hospitals
Clinics
Mental health settings
Rehabilitation programs

Medical interpreting requires:

Knowledge of medical terminology
Understanding of healthcare systems
Strong ethical decision-making skills

Common Credentials

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Must have a Level III or higher

Legal interpreters may work in:

Courts
Attorney-client meetings
Depositions
Law enforcement interviews

Legal interpreting often requires specialized training and advanced interpreting skills.

Common Credentials

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Must have a Level III or higher

Deaf Interpreters (DIs) are Deaf professionals who provide interpreting services in collaboration with hearing interpreters or independently when appropriate.
DIs play an essential role in ensuring communication access for diverse members of the Deaf community.

Common Credentials

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)

CERTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION IN SOUTH DAKOTA

Ready to put your skills to work? Before providing sign language interpreting services in South Dakota, you'll need to meet the state's registration requirements.

The good news? The process is straightforward, and South Dakota offers resources to help interpreters earn and maintain their credentials.

RECOGNIZED CREDENTIALS

South Dakota recognizes several credentialing pathways for interpreters. These credentials demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide professional interpreting services.

Credentials Recognized in South Dakota

RID Certification (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf)
EIPA Score of 3.5 or Higher (Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment)
BEI Certification (Board for Evaluation of Interpreters)
NAD Level III, IV, or V Certification (National Association of the Deaf)
CI/CT (Certificate of Interpretation and Certificate of Transliteration)
South Dakota Provisional Certification

Not sure which credential is right for you? Your career goals and work setting will often determine the best pathway.

REGISTRATION AND FEES

Once you've earned a qualifying credential, or meet the requirements for provisional certification, you can apply for registration through the South Dakota Department of Human Services.

Registration is required before providing interpreting services within South Dakota.

Initial Registration Forms

Registration Fees
Provisional Certification: $250.00
National Credential: $50.00

ANNUAL RENEWAL

Interpreter registration is renewed annually. To remain in good standing, interpreters must:

Submit their annual renewal
Pay the registration fee
Maintain required continuing education

Renewal Deadlines

Provisional Certification: Initial Registration Date (Often in June)
National Credential: August 31

Annual Registration Forms

Annual Registration Fees
Provisional Certification: $35.00
National Credential: $35.00

CONTINUED EDUCATION REQUIRMENTS

Professional development is an important part of maintaining your registration and continuing to grow as an interpreter.

South Dakota requires registered interpreters to maintain continuing education; however, the specific continuing education requirements are determined by the credential you hold. Because credentialing organizations have different maintenance requirements, interpreters should be familiar with the standards established by their certifying agency.

Continuing education activities used to maintain South Dakota registration must be sponsored, approved, or recognized by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or an equivalent professional credentialing organization. This helps ensure that professional development activities meet established industry standards and contribute to ongoing competency.

Continuing Education Requirements:

Provisional Certification: 2.5 CEUs per year
National Credential: 8.0 CEUs every four years (Average 2.0 CEUs per year)

Professional Development Opportunities Include:

Workshops
Conferences
Webinars
College coursework
Mentoring
SDIA events
Specialized interpreter training

Professional development not only helps maintain registration—it provides opportunities to strengthen skills, explore specialty areas, stay current with industry trends, and better serve Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing communities throughout South Dakota.

Questions? The South Dakota Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services oversees interpreter registration and certification programs within the state. Reach out to Julie Paluch at Julie.Paluch@state.sd.us or (605) 773-5301 with any questions or concerns.

The South Dakota Interpreters Association (SDIA) is also a valuable resource for professional development, mentorship, networking, and continuing education opportunities. You can contact us at sdinterpreters@gmail.com at any time.

Your journey doesn't end with certification - it begins there.

WHERE TO WORK

Have your certification and registration requirements figured out and wondering what comes next? The good news is that interpreters are needed in a wide variety of settings throughout South Dakota and beyond.

Depending on your interests, credentials, and career goals, you may choose to work as an employee, an independent contractor, or a combination of both. Many interpreters enjoy the flexibility of working in multiple settings and serving diverse communities.

The following organizations and settings are among the most common places where interpreters find employment and contract opportunities

Grate Interpreting

Owner: LeAnn Grate

Interpreter Services Inc.

Owner: Kasey Entwisle

Stage Right Interpreting

Owners: Hannah Hatle, Amanda Maguire, Mychal Hadrich

Z VRS

Regional Director: OPEN

Sorenson Communications

Regional Director: Charlie Wilkson

Local School Districts

In addition to the school districts listed above, other South Dakota school districts may periodically have openings for educational sign language interpreters. Many districts share their employment opportunities through the South Dakota Department of Human Services to help connect qualified interpreters with available positions across the state.

If you would like to receive notifications of educational interpreter job openings as they become available, contact Julie Paluch to be added to the state's educational interpreter employment listserv. Joining the listserv is a great way to stay informed about opportunities throughout South Dakota.

WHICH CREDENTIAL IS RIGHT FOR YOUR PRACTICE AREA?

Not all interpreting settings require the same level of training, experience, or specialization. While South Dakota recognizes several credentialing pathways, certain credentials may be better suited for specific environments such as education, healthcare, legal settings, community interpreting, or video remote services.

The document below provides recommended credential levels and qualifications for a variety of interpreting settings. These recommendations are intended to help interpreters, employers, agencies, and consumers understand the knowledge and skills typically associated with different practice areas and support the delivery of high-quality communication access services.

View the Credential Recommendations by Practice Setting Guide Here

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED A COLLEGE DEGREE TO BECOME AN INTERPRETER?

Educational pathways vary. Many interpreters complete an Interpreter Training Program or related degree program, though credential requirements depend on the setting and certification pathway.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME AN INTERPRETER?

IS THERE A DEMAND FOR INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

Yes. Qualified interpreters are needed throughout the state in educational, community, medical, legal, and remote settings.

CAN I WORK REMOTELY AS AN INTERPRTER?

Yes. Video Relay Service (VRS) and Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) positions provide remote work opportunities.

What is an Interpreter Training Program (ITP)?

An Interpreter Training Program is a specialized educational program that prepares students for professional interpreting careers. ITPs focus on ASL, Deaf culture, interpreting theory, ethics, professional practice, and supervised field experiences.

CAN I BECOME AN INTERPRETER IF I ALREADY KNOW ASL?

Possibly. While ASL fluency is an important foundation, professional interpreting requires additional training in ethics, language analysis, cultural competency, decision-making, and interpreting skills. Most individuals benefit from formal interpreter education and mentorship before entering the profession.

WHAT IS THE SOUTH DAKOTA PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATION (PC)?

Provisional Certification allows qualified individuals who have completed an accredited Interpreter Training Program to begin working while actively pursuing a nationally recognized credential. This pathway provides an opportunity to gain experience while continuing professional development.

WHAT CREDENTIALS ARE RECOGNIZED IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

South Dakota currently recognizes the following credentials:

RID Certification
EIPA scores of 3.5 or higher
BEI Certification
NAD Level III, IV, or V Certification
South Dakota Provisional Certification

Credential requirements may vary depending on your employment setting and professional goals.

DOES SOUTH DAKOTA OFFER HELP FOR CERTIFICATION EXAMS?

Yes. The South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services offers an Interpreter Testing Reimbursement Program for eligible South Dakota residents. The program may reimburse certain testing expenses associated with professional credentialing.

IS THERE A SHORTAGE OF INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

Yes. Qualified interpreters are needed throughout South Dakota, particularly in rural communities. Demand exists in educational, medical, legal, community, and remote interpreting settings across the state.

WHAT IS A DEAF INTERPRETER?

A Deaf Interpreter (DI) is a Deaf professional who has specialized training in interpreting. Deaf Interpreters may work independently or as part of a team with hearing interpreters to facilitate communication in complex situations or with consumers who use non-standard language systems.

HOW MUCH DO INTERPRETERS EARN?

Interpreter earnings vary based on credentials, experience, location, specialization, and employment setting. Interpreters may work as employees, independent contractors, freelancers, or business owners. Specialized interpreters and those holding advanced credentials often have access to additional opportunities.

WHAT IS THE SOUTH DAKOTA INTERPRETER MENTORING PROGRAM (IMP)?

The Interpreter Mentoring Program (IMP) is administered by the South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services and provides structured mentoring opportunities for interpreters at various stages of professional development. The program helps interpreters improve skills, prepare for certification, and receive individualized feedback from experienced mentors.

HOW CAN I CONNECT WITH OTHER INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

The South Dakota Interpreters Association (SDIA) provides opportunities to network with interpreters throughout the state through workshops, conferences, mentorship opportunities, leadership roles, and professional development events.

Updated 06/2026

Google Sites

Report abuse

BECOME A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER IN SOUTH DAKOTA

IS INTERPRETING RIGHT FOR YOU?

PATHWAYS TO BECOMING AN INTERPRETER IN SOUTH DAKOTA

Step 1: Explore and Get Started

Ways to Start Learning ASL

Recommended Resources

Your Goal

Step 2: Build Your Foundation

Ways to Strengthen Your Skills

Why Community Involvement Matters

Your Goal

Step 3: Get Trained

What You'll Learn

Degree Considerations

Interpreter Training Programs

Finding Accredited Programs

Your Goal

Step 4: Gain Experience

Observe Professional Interpreters

Volunteer and Build Community Connections

Participate in Mentorship

South Dakota Resources

South Dakota Interpreter Mentoring Program (IMP)

Your Goal

Step 5: Earn Credentials

Credentials Recognized in South Dakota

Interpreter Testing Reimbursement Program

Degree Requirements and Credentialing

Your Goal

Step 6: Grow and Specialize

Continue Your Professional Development

Explore Specialized Areas of Interpreting

Become Involved in the Profession

Give Back Through Mentorship

Your Goal

Step 7: Make an Impact

South Dakota Needs Interpreters

Your Work Matters

Build a Career with Purpose

Your Goal

EXPLORE INTERPRETING SPECIALTIES

Common Credentials

Common Credentials

Common Credentials

Common Credentials

Common Credentials

Common Credentials

CERTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION IN SOUTH DAKOTA

RECOGNIZED CREDENTIALS

Credentials Recognized in South Dakota

REGISTRATION AND FEES

Registration FeesProvisional Certification: $250.00National Credential: $50.00

ANNUAL RENEWAL

Renewal Deadlines

Annual Registration FeesProvisional Certification: $35.00National Credential: $35.00

CONTINUED EDUCATION REQUIRMENTS

WHERE TO WORK

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED A COLLEGE DEGREE TO BECOME AN INTERPRETER?

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME AN INTERPRETER?

IS THERE A DEMAND FOR INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

CAN I WORK REMOTELY AS AN INTERPRTER?

What is an Interpreter Training Program (ITP)?

CAN I BECOME AN INTERPRETER IF I ALREADY KNOW ASL?

WHAT IS THE SOUTH DAKOTA PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATION (PC)?

WHAT CREDENTIALS ARE RECOGNIZED IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

DOES SOUTH DAKOTA OFFER HELP FOR CERTIFICATION EXAMS?

IS THERE A SHORTAGE OF INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

WHAT IS A DEAF INTERPRETER?

HOW MUCH DO INTERPRETERS EARN?

WHAT IS THE SOUTH DAKOTA INTERPRETER MENTORING PROGRAM (IMP)?

HOW CAN I CONNECT WITH OTHER INTERPRETERS IN SOUTH DAKOTA?

Registration Fees
Provisional Certification: $250.00
National Credential: $50.00

Annual Registration Fees
Provisional Certification: $35.00
National Credential: $35.00