Steps to Become a Community Interpreter With No Prior Community Interpreter Training
Interested in becoming a community interpreter? Follow these six simple steps to join the NYC Community Interpreter Bank and start supporting language justice across New York City:
Step 1: Complete an Interest Form
Submit an Interpreter Interest Form to tell us about your language skills, background, and availability.
Step 2: Attend an Info Session
If your application is approved, we will invite you to join a short Info Session on Zoom.
The session lasts 30 to 45 minutes. It’s a time to:
- Learn more about the Community Interpreter Bank Initiative and its training program
- Learn more about the training program timeline, schedules, requirements, and expectations
- Ask any questions you may have about the training program or the overall initiative
This session helps you decide if the program is right for you. Everyone must attend before starting training.
Step 3: Take a Language Proficiency Test
After the info session, selected applicants will be scheduled for a Language proficiency test in English and the other language they speak fluently. This helps us make sure you're ready for the interpreter training.
Step 4: Complete the initial 40-Hour Training
Once you pass the exam, you’ll be enrolled in a 40-hour Community Interpreter Training.
After completing the core training, interpreters can take a 12-hour specialization in either (or both):
- Medical Interpretation – For health-related services
- Legal Interpretation – Focused on immigration legal setting
Step 5: Complete the Practicum
After training, you will complete a 40-hour practicum. This is a space to practice what you’ve learned, build your confidence, and get ready for real interpretation assignments.
Step 6: Final Evaluation & Onboarding
At the end of the practicum, your instructor and/or the CIB staff will conduct a final evaluation to assess all the skills you’ve learned. They will evaluate elements such as your interpretation accuracy, communication, note-taking abilities, and professionalism.
If you meet all the requirements, you’ll be officially onboarded into the NYC Community Interpreter Bank.
Already a trained interpreter? Here's how to apply:
If you’ve already completed formal interpreter training and have a certificate or certification, you may be able to skip the full training and move straight to evaluation and onboarding.
Step 1: Complete an Interest Form
Be sure to upload your certificate of completion, certification, resume, and any other proof of training.
Step 2: Evaluation
If approved, we’ll invite you to complete a short evaluation to assess your readiness.
Step 3: Get Onboarded
Once you pass the evaluation, we’ll welcome you into the Interpreter Bank and share next steps for accepting paid assignments.
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CIB TRAINING PROGRAM
To apply for the Interpreter Bank, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to pass the language proficiency test in English and the additional language/s that you will interpret in
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be able to commit to full attendance (at least 90%) during training
- Be comfortable using Zoom and digital tools for virtual learning
- Commit to ethical standards of community interpretation
BENEFITS TO BEING AN INTERPRETER
Joining the NYC Community Interpreter Bank comes with real impact and real benefits:
- Free Professional Training & Certificate of Completion
Receive high-quality interpreter training at no cost, including materials and exams. - Training Stipend
Earn for completing the full training program, including the 40-H Community Interpreter training, Practicum, and the optional legal and medical training tracks. - Paid Interpretation Opportunities
Get contracted for interpretation assignments with city-funded organizations. - Flexible Work Options
Interpret in-person or remotely in legal, healthcare, and community settings. - Support Your Community
Use your language skills to help fellow New Yorkers access services in their preferred language. - Career Development
Build professional skills and join a growing network of trained interpreters.