In-Person ASL Interpreting: What to Expect 

Whether it’s your first time scheduling an in-person ASL interpreter or you’ve done it before, knowing what to expect helps ensure clear communication and a successful experience. From understanding how to submit a request to knowing what happens once our team receives it, we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free. This article walk you through how to schedule services, typical response and scheduling timeframes, and what to expect on the day of your appointment — so you can feel fully prepared and confident every step of the way. 

Scheduling In-Person Interpreting 

Scheduling ASL interpreting services with DSU is quick and easy. If you are requesting services for the first time, you can Schedule Services Here. If your organization has received services from DSU in the past, you can Schedule Services Here using our returning customer form. Interpreter schedules can fill up quickly, so providing at least two weeks of notice gives our team the best opportunity to source a local interpreter for your request. Once your request is submitted, our scheduling team will review the details and follow up by email to confirm your request or gather any additional information needed. We strive to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on your event while we handle coordinating the right interpreter for your needs. 

Coordination Process 

Once your request form is received, our team begins coordinating interpreting services for your event or appointment. If you are a new customer, a member of our new customer team will reach out via email with a brief customer agreement. Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about the pricing and terms outlined in this agreement before moving forward with scheduling services. 

After the agreement is finalized, our scheduling team will send a confirmation email for your booking. From there, your assigned coordinator will work with you to gather any additional details that will help our interpreter prepare — such as a script, agenda, or presentation materials. These preparation resources allow our interpreters to familiarize themselves with the content and context of your event, ensuring the highest quality service and a smooth experience for everyone involved. 

Your coordinator will stay in touch leading up to the appointment to make sure everything is in place. Once your interpreter has been confirmed and prepared, you’re all set for the day of services — here’s what you can expect when the interpreter arrives. 

What to Expect the Day of Your Request 

On the day of your scheduled appointment or event, your interpreter will arrive on-site a few minutes early to check in and prepare for the assignment. To help the day go smoothly, please be sure to include clear location details and a point of contact when submitting your request. This ensures our interpreter can easily access the site, locate the correct room or event space, and reach someone if any last-minute questions arise. If your event requires building access, visitor check-in, or parking instructions, please share those details with your coordinator ahead of time so we can pass them along to the interpreter. 

Creating the right environment helps your interpreter provide the best possible service and ensures effective communication for everyone involved. Be sure to provide good lighting so the Deaf or hard-of-hearing consumer can clearly see the interpreter’s signs and facial expressions. Interpreter placement is also important — position the interpreter where they have a clear line of sight to both the Deaf participant and the speaker or presenter. If the assignment is lengthy, consider offering the interpreter a chair or stool for short breaks during downtime.  

Small steps like these make a big difference in supporting accurate communication and a comfortable, professional experience for all participants. If you’re unsure how to implement these setup details, our coordination team is happy to help and can offer guidance to make sure everything is arranged for a successful interpreting experience. 

After the assignment, no additional action is required unless follow-up services are needed. Your coordinator will be available to assist with any post-event questions or to help you schedule future appointments. 

For more information on what to expect for in-person interpreting and our other services, check out this short video! 

After Services 

At DSU, our goal is to make the process of scheduling in-person ASL interpreting services as seamless and supportive as possible. From your first request to the completion of your event, our team is here to guide you every step of the way — ensuring clear communication and a positive experience for everyone involved. Whether you’re planning ahead for a meeting, conference, or community event, you can feel confident knowing our team is dedicated to providing reliable, high-quality interpreting services that promote accessibility and inclusion. 

Q & A 

1. What’s the difference between in-person and Video Remote ASL interpreting? 
   For in-person interpreting, your interpreter will meet you on-site and provide services face-to-face.  Which can be ideal for events, Deafblind or low-vision clients, or situations requiring close visual communication. Video Remote Interpreting is a service that is provided virtually through a video call- such as Zoom or Virtual interpreting, on the other hand, happens over video and can be a flexible option for remote or last-minute requests. 

2. How are ASL interpreters qualified or certified to provide services? 
   Professional interpreters typically hold certifications through organizations such as the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or state-level credentialing programs. These certifications ensure interpreters meet high standards for language proficiency, ethics, and professionalism. 

3. What types of events or settings can an ASL interpreter support? 
   ASL interpreters can work in a wide range of settings — including medical appointments, educational settings, business meetings, conferences, community events, and legal proceedings. If you’re unsure whether an interpreter is needed, our team can help you determine the best fit for your situation. 

4. What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my interpreting request? 
   If your plans change, contact our scheduling team as soon as possible. Providing early notice allows us to update the interpreter’s schedule and accommodate future requests efficiently. 

5. How can I make my event more accessible for Deaf and hard-of-hearing participants? 
   Beyond providing an interpreter, consider good lighting, clear sightlines, minimal background noise, and accessible materials (like captions or slides) to create an inclusive environment. Our team can offer guidance on best practices for accessibility planning.