Language access

Expanding language access in courts

As the developer of national court interpreter examinations, we have a deep understanding of language access trends, and the level of knowledge and aptitude required for certification. We're here to assist courts looking to create or expand a language access program, and individuals who are interested in becoming a court interpreter.

Equipping courts with language access services

Courts should provide qualified court interpreters to parties in certain case types to ensure fair and efficient justice. Our resources can help you get started.

Preparing prospective interpreters for court service

Candidates are tested on a number of skills before becoming court interpreters. Learn more about the skills needed to be a proficient and effective state court interpreter.

State court interpreters FAQs

We offer overviews of the written and oral exams and also maintain a list of oral exams that are ready for administration.

Please note that not all states use NCSC examination materials in their credentialing programs. For languages in which NCSC oral exams are not available, states may also administer other proficiency evaluations as part of their credentialing.
We make recommendations about exam development activities based on national use and need for a language, input from state language access program managers, and in accordance with the policy for the development and modification of test inventory. All final decisions regarding exam development activities are made by the Language Access Advisory Committee.
While many states administer the NCSC oral examination, each state is solely responsible for certifying and otherwise recognizing interpreters to practice in their courts. If you are already credentialed as a state court interpreter in one state, but are interested in becoming credentialed in another state, we advise you to contact the appropriate court interpreting office in that state for complete information on the requirements and process for becoming a court interpreter.

Federal court interpreters FAQs

About the Language Access Advisory Committee (LAAC)

A subcommittee of the Council of Language Access Coordinators established by the Conference of Chief Justices and Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA), the Language Access Advisory Committee (LAAC) is comprised of COSCA members and non-voting CLAC liaisons and focuses on language access issues and initiatives.

Chair: Kathy S. Lloyd, Mo.
Co-chair: Glenn A. Grant, N.J.
- Marcia M. Meis, Ill.
- Sandra Vujnovich, La.
- Stacy Marz, Alaska
- Eric Maclure, Fla.
- Nancy Cozine, Ore.
- Ron Gordon, Utah
- Gayle Lafferty, Del.
- Karl Reifsteck, N.M.
- Katherine Stocks, Nev.
CLAC Liaisons
- Joshua Elliott, Ky.
- David Svoboda, Ariz.
- Bruno Romero, Ohio

Increase language access in courts

Contact our team to learn how you can grow your program.

Email our team

Expanding language access in courts

Equipping courts with language access services

Preparing prospective interpreters for court service

How do I become a state court interpreter?

Where do I locate my state’s contact information regarding court interpreting?

Where do I find information about the written and oral examinations?

What is your process for determining languages for the development of oral examinations?

I am already credentialed as a state court interpreter in one state, but am interested in becoming credentialed in another state. How does reciprocity work between the states?

I am already credentialed but do not have a record of my NCSC oral examination scores. How can I get a copy?

How do I become a federal court interpreter?

Our members

Increase language access in courts