The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) is the leading organization to nationally qualify sign language interpreters in the United States. Some other certifications are allowed in lieu of RID certification, depending on state laws and the hiring organizations.
Interpreters are a crucial communication tool utilized by all people involved in a communication setting where participants don't know each other's language.
Interpreters must be able to listen to another person’s words, inflections and intent and simultaneously render them into the visual language of signs using the mode of communication preferred by the deaf consumer.
The interpreter must also be able to comprehend the signs, inflections and intent of the deaf consumer and simultaneously speak them in articulate, appropriate English. They must understand the cultures in which they work and apply that knowledge to promote effective cross-cultural communications.
If interpreting services are requested, it means they have experience using the service which means there's no better person to ask!
You can ask if they have a specific interpreter or agency they prefer. If the Deaf/HH consumer mentions a specific interpreter, ask if they know how to contact that interpreter (agency, freelance, etc).
If the Deaf/HH consumer replies with something like, "I don't care as long as it's a LIVE interpreter", they are saying the do not want VRI interpreting.
If the consumer says something like, "Someone qualified who knows ASL", it's because of the unfortunate common occurrence of unqualified signers inappropriately (and often times illegally) "interpreting" when they shouldn't be. Assure the consumer that you'll do you best and when you make the request to the agency, rely the concern.
Please note that asking a consumer's preference is not the same as putting the responsibility of finding and interpreter back onto the consumer. The only time a Deaf/HH consumer is responsible to find their own interpreter is if they are the business/organization owner. It is the responsibility of the business/organization/facility to provide a qualified professional so all consumers have access to the provided service.
The Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is a great resource for ALL things regarding hearing loss.