Interpreter Services Overview
To comply with federal law, and as part of the Department’s commitment to ensuring language access for clients, all clients must be advised of the right to professional interpreter services regardless of language, national origin, or noncitizen status and the Department must provide interpreter services to clients whose primary language is not English. Interpreter services must be provided to clients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) or who communicate using American Sign Language (ASL) at the first point of contact.
Clients with LEP or who require an ASL interpreter must not be turned away or told to return with an interpreter. A client who presents with an adult intending to act as an interpreter must be advised that DTA will provide a professional interpreter free of charge. After being informed, the client may decline the use of professional interpreter services and choose to have the adult serve as an interpreter.
Important:Â Children over age 12 may interpret only to schedule an appointment. Children aged 12 and under must not be asked to interpret for any purpose.
Related Topics
Department Interpreter Services
Guidelines for Providing Interpreter Services
Interpreter Services Policy and Procedures