RID/CASLI currently requires all Deaf Interpreters to have an AA/AS degree in any field of study before they can take the Knowledge (written) Exam. However, RID/CASLI plans on requiring Deaf Interpreters to have a BA/BS degree before they take the exam. This will happen 6 months after RID/CASLI makes available the CDI Performance Exam. Much of the confusion for many Deaf Interpreters is due to the fact that hearing ASL interpreters are already required to have a BA degree in any field of study before they can take their NIC exam.
If you do not have any degree but have equivalent experience, you may apply for the RID Alternative Pathways program. For more information, please visit RID’s webpage at http://www.rid.org/rid-certification-overview/alternative-pathway.
