Interpreter Registry

In compliance with Louisiana Revised Statute 46:2351-2354 (Act 128, 2022), the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf developed an accessible, centralized, and searchable registry of qualified sign language interpreters in Louisiana. The goal of the Louisiana Interpreter Registry is to improve access to interpreting services for individuals who are d/Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard of hearing. Sign language interpreters listed on the Registry have met the state’s minimum qualification standards and requirements to work in Louisiana.

Currently, the following work settings require registration of interpreters: General community settings, including medical, and PreK-12 educational settings under the purview of the Louisiana Department of Education. Court and legal settings, along with requirements for Deaf Interpreters are being developed and expected to be published in the fall of 2026. See Registration Types below for more information.

Visit the Louisiana Interpreter Registry website to locate or verify the registration of a sign language interpreter in your area or for sign language interpreters to apply to be a registered interpreter in the state or to manage their registration information.

Locate or Verify a Registered Sign Language Interpreter

Step 1: Access the Louisiana Interpreter Registry

To find an interpreter near you, or to verify the registration status of an interpreter, visit the Louisiana Interpreter Registry at www.la.egov.com/ldh/LCDInterpreterRegistry.

Step 2: Search for a Sign Language Interpreter

All active, inactive, and retired interpreters automatically appear on the page under Interpreter Registry. The search filters on the left side of the page can be used to narrow down the interpreters viewable on the Registry. Each filter builds upon the previous filter to narrow down the results shown.

For example, if you only want to see interpreters who are currently active, click on Select Interpreter Status, and then select Active. This will reduce the number of interpreters who now appear in the search results. Note: Only active interpreters are shown with this selection.

Step 3: Learn More about a Sign Language Interpreter

Each interpreter has a profile page. This page holds important information for potential customers to help them determine if that interpreter is a good fit.

In the first column, click on the “view interpreter profile” button.

This will take you to the profile page, which will tell you more about the interpreter’s background, qualifications, and possible availability for scheduling services.

Step 4: Questions? Contact Us

If you have any issues or questions, please feel free to contact the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf using the contact form at the bottom of the web page.

Apply to be a Registered Sign Language Interpreter or Manage Registration Information

Step 1: Access the Louisiana Interpreter Registry

Sign language interpreters can apply to be listed on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry by visiting www.la.egov.com/ldh/LCDInterpreterRegistry.

Step 2: Create an Account or Log In

New Users: Click “Sign Up” and follow the prompts to create an account. Be prepared to submit the following documentation as applicable: proof of education, proof of credentials, and resume.

Existing Users: Click “Login” to access or update your application.

Step 3: Follow the Required Prompts

For new applicants: The application has two parts: the profile section and the application section.

You will be required to upload documentation verifying your registration qualifications and to submit payment in order for your application to be reviewed.

For more information, contact LCDInterpreterRegistry@la.gov.

Louisiana Interpreter Registration Types

There are multiple interpreter registration types based on work settings, and interpreter progress toward meeting the minimum qualification standards for placement on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry. All sign language interpreters who provide services in the state – whether in person or virtually – will be required to be registered with the state.

Generalist registration is for interpreters working in community settings who have fully met the requirements for placement on the registry. Generalist registration is for interpreters practicing in community settings such as medical, employment, and other public and private services.
PreK–12 registration is for interpreters working in PreK-12 educational settings who have fully met the requirements for placement on the registry.
Court/Legal registration is for interpreters working in legal proceedings including courtrooms, law enforcement interactions, depositions, and attorney-client meetings. The registration types requirements for court/legal settings are expected to be announced in the fall of 2026.
Provisional registration is for interpreters working toward meeting full registration requirements for placement on the registry. Each registration type based on the settings listed above allows a provisional registration option, which is a stepping stone for interpreters on the path to achieving full registration. Sign language interpreters at this registration level will have different registration, maintenance, and renewal requirements.

Requirements for Deaf Interpreters are expected in the fall of 2026. Deaf Interpreters are encouraged to set up a new profile on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry by July 1, 2026.

Generalist Registration for Community Settings

Generalist registration is for individuals providing sign language interpreting services in all general settings. This excludes interpreters working in legal, court, and PreK-12 educational settings, which have other requirements.

There are four different registration types for community settings: generalist, provisional generalist, generalist temporary practice permit – supervised support, and generalist temporary practice permit – supervised.

Generalist

Generalist registration requires interpreters to submit proof of education, performance, and knowledge skills in the form of recognized professional certification(s).

Education, Performance, and Knowledge: One of the following certifications is required
- Valid certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
  - Excludes Educational Certificate: K-12 (Ed:K-12)
  - Learn more about the available national certifications issued and recognized through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf by visiting their website.
- Valid certification from the Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters Performance Exam, Advanced or higher
  - Learn more about the available certifications issued and recognized through the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Certification Program and the requirements and process to obtain certification by visiting their website.

Renewals

This registration type must be renewed every five years, with proof of valid certification issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, or the Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters.

Provisional Generalist

Provisional generalist registration is for individuals providing sign language interpreting services in all general settings (excluding educational and legal/court) who have not yet met the minimum standards for full generalist registration.

Provisional generalist registration requires interpreters to submit a minimum education component, proof of performance skill, and proof of knowledge skill.

Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Performance: One of the following proof of performance skills is required
- A valid Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Educational Certificate: K-12 (EdK-12)
- A valid certification from the Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters Performance Exam Basic or higher
- An Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) of a 4.0+
  - The EIPA Performance Test evaluates the ability to expressively interpret classroom content and discourse and the ability to receptively interpret student sign language. It is not limited to any one sign language or system. EIPA is used to evaluate interpreters who work with students who use predominately American Sign Language (ASL) and Pidgin Sign English (PSE).
- A Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) Superior+ within the last five years. Note: Advanced level may be accepted
  - A Sign Language Proficiency Superior Plus score demonstrates the ability to have a fully shared and natural conversation, with in-depth elaboration for both social and work topics. All aspects of signing are native-like.
- Knowledge: One of the following proof of knowledge skill is required
  - Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation Generalist Knowledge Exam
    - This exam specifically assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities a sign language interpreter should have to competently work in typical, non-specialized, interpreting settings.
  - Interpreter Training Program certificate or higher degree
    - This program prepares students to interpret between sign language and spoken English, with education on language/linguistics, Deaf Culture and ethics.
  - 100 approved Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf/Board for Evaluation of Interpreters continuing education units or mentoring hours within the last five years.

Renewals

This registration type is a temporary credential that is valid for three years, but is non-renewable and requires an annual maintenance plan, which requires:

Completion of the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf Interpreter Maintenance Form
Verification of direct supervision from a registered Generalist Interpreter, verifying active engagement of preparing for an exam.
20 contact hours of professional development approved by Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or Board for Evaluation of Interpreters issued within the year of provisional registration.

Individuals may request an extension of their registration at the end of the three year cycle, for one year, up to two times, by submitting all of the following:

A letter explaining the reason for extension
60 contact hours of approved Registry of Interpreters or Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters continuing education units issued within three years
The completion of a minimum of one component of the Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation Generalist Knowledge Exam or Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters Test of English Proficiency Exam certification exam.

Note: Only proof of test completion is required. Successful passing or receipt of verified results is not required for this extension request.

Generalist Temporary Practice Permit – Supervised Support

Generalist temporary practice permit – supervised support registration is for individuals who hold some verifiable professional experience, yet cannot provide full verification of skills or knowledge standards. One of the following qualifications is required:

Proof of one year or more of full-time professional interpreting experience
Sign Language Proficiency Interpreter (SLPI) Rating of Advanced or higher within the last two years
- Demonstrates the ability to have a generally shared conversation with good, spontaneous elaboration for both social and work topics
- Includes broad sign language vocabulary knowledge and clear, accurate production of signs and fingerspelling at a normal/near-normal rate; occasional misproductions do not detract from conversational flow
- Good use of many sign language grammatical features and comprehension good for normal signing rate
Proof of completion of formal professional development in the form of one of the following and two letters of recommendation
- Enrollment in sign language interpreter training program or a formal mentorship program; or
- Minimum of 20 hours approved Registry of Interpreters or Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters continuing education units; or
- Letter verifying prior training and/or supervised support from a Louisiana Registered or RID or BEI certified interpreter
Two letters of recommendation must be from:
- A registered generalist interpreter
- A sign language interpreting professional representative, such as an interpreting agency director or professor

Renewals

This registration is valid for one year and is non-renewable.

Generalist Temporary Practice Permit – Supervised

Generalist temporary practice permit – supervised registration is for individuals practicing to gain experience in sign language interpreting in community settings under the direct supervision of a registered generalist interpreter. One of the following qualifications is required:

Proof of completion of a two-year interpreter education program or proof of senior status in a four-year interpreter education program
Engagement in a formal mentoring program specifically for sign language interpreters

Renewals

This registration is valid for one year and may be extended one time after submission of evidence of continued enrollment in a formal training opportunity for sign language interpreters.

PreK–12 Registration for Educational Settings

PreK-12 registration is for individuals providing sign language interpreting services in a public, educational prekindergarten through twelfth grade environment under the purview of the Louisiana Department of Education, regardless of job title.

There are four different registration types for educational settings: registered PreK-12, provisional PreK-12, and PreK-12 practice permit – supervised support.

Registered PreK–12

PreK-12 registration requires interpreters to submit a minimum education, performance, and knowledge skill component.

Education: One of the following is required
An associate’s degree (or higher)
A minimum of 60 semester hours of college credits
Performance: One of the following is required
Valid certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
- To learn more about the available national certifications issued and recognized through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf and the requirements and process to become nationally certificated, please visit the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf certification webpage here.
Valid certification from the Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters, Advanced level or higher
- To learn more about the available certifications issued and recognized through the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Certification Program and the requirements and process to obtain certification, please visit the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters webpage here.
Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) score of 4.0 or above
- The EIPA Performance Test evaluates the ability to expressively interpret classroom content and discourse and the ability to receptively interpret student sign language. It is not limited to any one sign language or system. EIPA is used to evaluate interpreters who work with students who use predominately American Sign Language (ASL) and Pidgin Sign English (PSE).
Knowledge: Verification of having passed the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment Written Test
Evaluates the interpreter’s understanding of information that is critical to performing with students in an education setting.

Renewals

This registration is valid for five years. Any request for renewal requires all of the following:

Proof of valid certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters plus 20 additional hours of Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters approved continuing education units, specific to interpreting in education
Registrants who do not hold a Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or Board for Evaluation of Interpreters certification must submit 100 hundred hours of continuing education units with:
- A minimum of 60 hours in professional studies
  - Professional studies contain content that directly applies or affects the field of interpreting/transliterating
- A maximum of 20 hours in general studies
  - General studies include topics that enhance the interpreter/transliterator’s base of general or world knowledge
- A minimum of 20 hours related to interpreting in education and/or ethical practices in education
- Of the 100 hours
  - 75 hours must be approved by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters
  - 45 hours may include three semesters in interpreting or general related academic coursework recognized by an educational institution
  - 25 hours may be received through local education agencies, districts, or school requirements

Provisional PreK–12

For sign language interpreters who hold some qualifications, but have not met all of the minimum requirements for full PreK-12 registration.

Education: One of the following is required
- Completion or higher degree from an interpreter training program
- A minimum of 30 semester hours of college credits
Performance: One of the following is required
- A valid certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
- A valid certification from the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Basic certification or higher
- An Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment score of 3.0–3.9
- An Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment pre-hire screening with an “OK to hire” result

Renewals

This registration is valid for three years, is non-renewable, and requires an annual maintenance plan.

PreK–12 Practice Permit – Supervised Support

For individuals seeking to gain experience in sign language interpreting in educational settings under the direct supervision of a Registered PreK–12 Interpreter. One of the following qualifications is required:

A pre-hire screening of the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment with a result of ‘hire with caution/supervision’
The completion of a two-year sign language interpreter education program or proof of senior status in a four-year sign language interpreter education program
Proof of participations of formal mentoring, job-shadowing, or training opportunities for sign language interpreters

Renewals

This registration may be extended one time with verification of continued enrollment in a higher education training program or mentoring program for sign language interpreters.

Registration Requirements for Louisiana Department of Education Ancillary Certificate Holders

This registration type is for sign language interpreters who hold a valid Louisiana Department of Education Ancillary Certificate issued prior to July 1, 2027. This registration type meets the minimum standards required to work independently in PreK-12 education settings and to be included on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry.

Education: One of the following is required
- An Associates degree (or higher)
- A minimum of 60 semester hours of college credits
- A request for extension of education requirement with proof of enrollment in an associate’s degree or higher program with anticipated graduation date within four years from the date of request
- A request for exemption of education requirement with proof of employment within five years of state retirement
- Request for exemption of education requirement with proof of four years of full-time pre-kindergarten–12 educational work
Performance: One of the following is required
- Valid certification from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
- Valid certification issued by the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Advanced certification or higher
- Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment score of 4.0 or above
- Request for a one-year performance requirement extension can be made with verifiable progress toward achieving the new standard. The extension is renewable annually up to three times with verifiable progress toward achieving new standard.
Knowledge: One of the following is required
- Passing grade on the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment Written Test
- Request for exemption of knowledge requirement with verifiable proof of Proctor status for the Educational Interpreter Written Test granted prior to July 1, 2025

Renewals

This registration type is valid for five years. See the PreK-12 Registration Renewal Requirements.

Registration Requirements for Louisiana Department of Education Provisional Certificate Holders

This registration type is for sign language interpreters who hold a valid Louisiana Department of Education Provisional Certificate issued prior to July 1, 2027, and are working towards meeting the minimum standards.

Education: One of the following is required
- Completion or higher degree from an interpreter training program
- A minimum of 30 semester hours of college credits
- A request for extension of the educational requirement with verifiable proof of enlistment in associates degree, or higher program with anticipated graduation date within four years from the date of request
Performance: One of the following is required
- A valid certification issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
- A valid Board for Evaluation of Interpreters Basic certification or higher
- An Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment score of 3.0–3.9
- An Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment pre-hire screening with an “OK to hire” result

Renewals

This registration is valid for three years and is non-renewable.

Court and Legal Registration for Legal Settings

Court and legal registration is for individuals providing sign language interpreting services in legal proceedings including courtrooms, law enforcement interactions, depositions, and attorney-client meetings.

Minimum standards for court registration are being developed with the Louisiana Supreme Court Office of Language Access and are expected to be published in the fall of 2026. Interpreters currently registered by the Louisiana Supreme Court should maintain their registration with the Office of Language Access and apply for Generalist Registration with the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf. Interpreters will be notified when it is time to complete their court and legal registration on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process to apply for the Louisiana Interpreter Registry? Is there a fee?

Sign language interpreters can apply to register on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry by visiting la.egov.com/ldh/LCDInterpreterRegistry.

A fee is required to register and must be paid prior to approval:

Registration and renewal fees are $50.00. Late renewal fees are $75.00. All fees are non-refundable. To upgrade your registration from provisional to registered, or to apply for an additional setting(s) after initial registration, you will be required to pay a $25.00 upgrade/addition fee.

Note: During initial registration or a renewal period, you may register for multiple settings for the flat fee rate of $50.00.

How long does it take to approve applications and renewals?

All applicants will receive notification from the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf about their application status approval, denial, or a request for additional information within five business days. The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf administrator will contact you if any required documents are missing, which may delay the approval process.

Once approved, will sign language interpreters receive a printed or digital badge/card as confirmation of their registration?

Yes. Once you are approved and listed on the Louisiana Interpreter Registry, the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf will issue an official registration card to you. The registration card will be sent to you in the mail.

Are video remote service (VRS) interpreters required to be registered in order to work in Louisiana?

Video remote service interpreters are paid through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The video remote service hiring entity must comply with all federal requirements. The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf does not oversee the federal process.

Are video remote interpreters (VRI) and video interpreters (VI) required to be registered in order to work in Louisiana?

Yes, video remote interpreters and video interpreters are required to be registered in order to work in Louisiana. Hiring entities including interpreting agencies are required to ensure interpreters providing interpreting services in Louisiana are registered.

What are the renewal dates for registration?

Registration cycles vary for sign language interpreters depending on their type of registration and the date in which they register. Please see information about the different registration types to learn about renewals dates for your registration type, or visit Title 46 to view the full sign language interpreter minimum qualification standards and renewals.

For additional resources and information, visit the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf Minimum Qualifications Standards for Sign Language Interpreters webpage.