Orientation Workshops
All candidates are required to attend a two-day orientation workshop sponsored by the Interpreter Certification Program.
Workshops are offered in locations throughout the state. Dates and locations are posted on the interpreter program calendar as they are scheduled.
Topics covered in the workshop include interpreting as a profession, the state's judicial system, ethics and professional development, interpreting skills and modes of interpretation. Candidates receive training materials, information about resources, legal glossaries and study tips for the written and oral examinations.
Workshops are taught by federal and RID certified interpreters who have legal interpreting experience. Candidates must attend both sessions to meet certification requirements. Sessions start at 8 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. each day and are limited to a maximum of 50 attendees.
Registration
To register for the orientation workshop, print, complete and mail the orientation registration form to the address at the bottom of the form. Since places are limited, it is important for candidates to submit registration forms as early as possible. The Interpreter Certification Program tries to accommodate candidates' date preference in the order forms are received.
The cost of the workshop is $150 for state residents and $175 for non-residents. Registrations must be accompanied by full payment. Payment can be made by money order or personal check written to the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts. Registration and payment must be received by 5 p.m. on the registration deadline listed as the first choice. A $25 fee is assessed for all returned checks. Registrations canceled before the confirmation letter is mailed are entitled to receive a full refund. Candidates who fail to attend the workshop will not receive a refund.
Attendance
Once forms and payments are received, candidates are sent a confirmation email. Once registration closes, candidates receive a confirmation letter with the location of their orientation site, directions and any other relevant information. All arrangements are made at the candidate's expense. You must bring your confirmation letter and a valid government issued photo ID on the first day of the workshop.
RID CEUs for Sign Language Interpreters
In partnership with PARID, the Interpreter Certification Program offers RID CMP credits to sign language and deaf interpreters. PARID is approved by the RID CMP to sponsor continuing education activities. This activity is being offered for 1.5 CEUs in Professional Studies. Participants should have some prior knowledge of the topic and must attend both days to qualify for CEUs. Please read additional information about the orientation for sign language interpreters by clicking here.
Special Accommodation
If you require special accommodation because of a disability recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please print and complete the Request for Accommodation and Document of Accommodation forms and mail them with your registration form. Every effort is made to accommodate reasonable requests.