In-Person Sign Language Interpreting
Deaf Services Unlimited has a large national network of sign language interpreters available throughout the country. Wherever you are, we’ve got you covered.
Whatever the situation, we have the solution.
Schedule In-Person ServicesWe boast a nationwide network of sign language interpreters available in all 50 states. And when you need us, you’ll talk to a person that will hand-pick the best interpreter for your needs – not just the first interpreter available. Our interpreting coordination team is fast, responsive, and ready to make sure your scheduling needs are met.
Because of our extensive experience, we are able to ensure that the interpreters scheduled are certified, meet the linguistic needs of the Deaf individual and are qualified to interpret the subject matter at hand. On-site interpreting services are always in high-demand, please make sure you secure services by placing a request as soon as you have identified the need, location, and time.
More About This Service
Sign language interpreting is the process in which a qualified interpreter facilitates communication between Deaf and hearing individuals by accurately conveying spoken language into sign language, and sign language into spoken language, in real time.
ADA compliance means that businesses must follow the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act by providing equal access to their facilities, services, and communications. This includes removing barriers, offering reasonable accommodations, and ensuring that customers and employees with disabilities can fully participate.
In-person interpreting provides face-to-face communication, which many Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals prefer because it allows for clearer visual cues, stronger connection, and smoother interaction in group settings. Remote interpreting, such as Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), offers flexibility and immediate access when in-person interpreters are not available. While both options ensure accessibility, in-person interpreting is often considered the gold standard when accuracy, relationship-building, and nuanced communication are especially important.
qualified and certified
DSU interpreters provide services you can trust.
DSU interpreters are nationally certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or National Association of the Deaf.
All DSU interpreters hold licensure and credentials mandated by the state in which they are providing services. To work with DSU, each interpreter must complete an application and screening process to determine qualifications, assess their skills, successfully complete background checks, and ensure their ability to provide the quality-of-service DSU customers have come to expect.
What does a recommended timeline for access planning look like?
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1
2-3 weeks in advance
Submit your service request online with Deaf Services Unlimited including the date, time, and any additional details available for your appointment.
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2
1-2 weeks in advance
Submit any materials for interpreters to use in preparation for providing services. This might include meeting agendas, presentations, speeches, etc. Share point-of-contact information, check-in locations, and parking details for the day of the request with DSU.
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3
1-2 days in advance
With your services confirmed, prepare your organization for working with an interpreter and review request details to supply DSU with any updates as needed.
Resources For You
We’re making conversations happen.
Scheduling an in-person interpreter through DSU is as simple as a phone call or click of the mouse.
FAQs
When do I need to use an interpreter?
An interpreter facilitates communication between parties who do not share the same language. Deaf individuals may be prevented from understanding and/or participating in situations if spoken or written English is the main mode of communication.
Some simple communication can be done through written notes or gestures, but any time important content is being communicated, having an interpreter present safeguards the participants by ensuring that information is accessible to both parties.
What should I expect when working with an interpreter?
Remember that the interpreter is there in a professional capacity. Feel free to speak with them as you might a new colleague, but keep in mind that they are there to provide a professional service to allow communication access. They are a bridge for communication between the Deaf and Hearing parties, not an additional person in the discussion. It can feel strange at first to have an outside person facilitating your conversation, but keep in mind that you are speaking with the Deaf or hard of hearing individual, not the interpreter. Avoid falling into the habit of speaking in the third person (he/him, she/her, they), rather, use the second person (you/we) just as you would when speaking with a Hearing person. Speak directly to the Deaf or hard of hearing individual and make eye contact with them, not the interpreter, for the duration of the conversation.
How do I prepare for an interpreter in our space?
It is helpful to review your meeting/appointment space in advance to plan for your interpreter. The interpreter should be visible at the front of the room, adjacent to the presenter or speaker so they are within visual field of any presentation for Deaf and hard-of-hearing users. Ensure there is a clear line of sight for users and that the room is well lit.
Additionally, be sure to include any arrival instructions with the preparation materials you provide to your coordinator to make for a smooth start to your request.
What if I need ongoing services?
That’s no problem! Our interpreters love ongoing assignments and the opportunity they provide to get to know your organization and your consumers. Our request form will prompt you to share if you have ongoing access needs and our coordinators will schedule accordingly.
Do you have interpreters for rural areas?
Our vast roster of interpreters in all 50 states leaves DSU well-equipped to serve most rural areas. In the event of limited local availability, alternative options may be suggested by our team such as additional scheduling dates, travel for interpreters outside the local area, or video remote interpreting when necessary.
How do travel costs work?
In the event of limited availability for local interpreters, non-local interpreters may be used requiring paid travel time. Travel is billed at the same hourly rate of interpreting but will always be communicated in advance by your coordinator for your approval before confirmation.
Why do I have to have two interpreters for my assignment?
Interpreting is a very taxing activity, both mentally and physically. Research has shown that an interpreter’s ability to mentally process and interpret a message accurately diminishes drastically after approximately 30 minutes of interpreting. Worse, the interpreter is usually unaware that his or her accuracy has decreased, so misinformation is being unwittingly transmitted. Research also indicates accuracy improves on longer or more complex assignments when implementing a Team interpreting approach.
Team interpreting refers to interpreting situations where two or more interpreters work together with the goal of creating one interpretation. An interpreting Team creates a collaborative approach by capitalizing on each interpreter’s strengths and supporting each other for consistency.
Our scheduling team will assist you in determining the appropriate number of interpreters needed. The decision of when to use a Team rather than an individual interpreter is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to:
- Length and/or complexity of the assignment
- Unique needs of the individual needing accommodation
- Physical and emotional dynamics of the setting
When necessary, Team interpreting provides continuity in the interpreted message, increased accuracy, and optimum interpreting services for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals.