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Library

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Education

FAQs

Interpreting Services

Visit the Interpreters page for a directory of interpreters.

See the Idaho Relay section of our Interpreters page.

Resources for / About Interpreters

See the FAQ section on our Interpreters Page.

See the ASL (American Sign Language) section of our Resources page.

The Educational Interpreter Act is Title 33, Chapter 13 in the State Statutes. This law was created to establish minimum competency and continuing education standards for Sign, Oral, and Cued Speech interpreters and transliterators.

Disability Rights (ADA)

Read about ADA Compliance as it applies to your organization on the Resources page.

You can file an ADA Complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice alleging disability discrimination against a State or local government or a public accommodation (including, for example, a restaurant, doctor’s office, retail store, hotel, etc.) online, by mail, or fax.

You can file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Opportunities Commission if you believe you have been discriminated against by an employer, labor union, or employment agency when applying for a job or while on the job because of your deafness. EEOC has a video phone system for the deaf and hard of hearing community to communicate with the agency directly. The VP number is (844) 234-5122. The VP line is open 7AM – 6PM EST.

Connect Locally

See our home page or Facebook page for the latest activities.

The Resources page contains a list of Helpful Agencies and Organizations.

Contact us to have your event posted on our Facebook page.

Any opportunities we are aware of are posted on our Facebook page.

Children & Education

Visit the Infants, Children, Teens and Parenting section of our Resources page.

>>> Read about your Communication options on the Resources page.

Idaho Sound Beginnings administers the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program in Idaho.

Hearing Aids & Assistive Technology

Hearing Aid opportunities are listed on our Assistive Technology page.

Visit the Assistive Technology page.

Read about captioning on the Assistive Technology page.

Mental Health

The Counseling and Mental Health section of our Resources page lists professionals.

Helpful Materials

Yes! Our Lending Library resources are mailed to you at no charge.

Adults - Late Deafend

The Association of Late Deafened Adults may be a good resource for you. Also, see our Assistive Technology information.

Vision & Hearing Loss

The Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (HKNC) wants to enable each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice. Also see our DeafBlind information on the Resources page.

Interpreter Directory FAQs

Independent service providers set their own rates. You can expect an industry standard flat rate covering the first two hours, otherwise know as a two hour minimum, followed by an hourly charge. They may have differentials depending on day, time, setting, etc. ask to see their terms before booking. 

Some assignments, such as conferences and theatrical performances, are billed at a flat rate for the entirety of the work.

Ask the interpreter you are working with for their cancellation policy. Interpreters will bill for the full time booked regardless of whether an appointment ends early or a client fails to appear.

All certified interpreters qualify for licensure, not all licensed interpreters hold certification. Certification or other interpreting assessments may be used to qualify for state licensure.

Certification is verification that an interpreter has passed a nationally recognized test of ethical competency and skill. Certification is considered a higher standard than other assessments used to qualify for a state license. 

Licensure is verification by the state of Idaho that the professional is able to practice on site or virtual practice within the state. All sign language interpreters practicing in the state of Idaho must be licensed through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) IC 54-29. 

No. Hiring a signed language interpreter depends upon the communication modality used by the Deaf or Hard of Hearing individual, and their accommodation request. Please review your organization’s policy regarding communication access.

For more information on communication access policies, see here.

For more information on other accommodations and auxiliary aids used by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, see here. [insert page jump]

Some assignments, such as conferences and theatrical performances, are billed at a flat rate for the entirety of the work.

Ask the interpreter you are working with for their cancellation policy. Interpreters will bill for the full time booked regardless of whether an appointment ends early or a client fails to appear.

You may ask to see an interpreter’s license to practice at any point. Interpreters are obligated to provide proof of licensure upon request. 

You may also ask what specialized training, experience, and additional credentials interpreters hold.

Some assignments, such as conferences and theatrical performances, are billed at a flat rate for the entirety of the work.

Ask the interpreter you are working with for their cancellation policy. Interpreters will bill for the full time booked regardless of whether an appointment ends early or a client fails to appear.

ASL interpreters are in high demand nation-wide, creating a competitive market. It is always best to submit a request as soon as you know of a need for interpretive services.

If you have an urgent need, it can be effective to set multiple tentative appointment times and confirm a single time after an interpreter has been secured.

Requests are considered last-minute when they are submitted less than a week from the date of the assignment depending on the assignment’s duration.

The Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing has an interpreter directory that provides information to directly contact interpreters for services, and a list of local agencies that provide interpreting services, found further down on this page. 

The Idaho Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf also has an interpreter directory you can find interpreters and contact them directly.

Depending on your area and availability of local interpreters, you may contact the Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for additional resources.

The Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) maintains the list of licensed interpreters and registered Deaf interpreters in the State of Idaho. 

Interpreters generally work in teams of two for any assignment that is longer than one hour, or that is complex in nature. This is for reasons of occupational safety and quality assurance.

Consult with the interpreter or agency you are working with to assess your need.

Yes. Please note that while these exist to help defray the cost associated with providing accommodations, they do not change your obligation to ensure access.

Tax Credits: The tax credit is available to businesses that have total revenues of $1,000,000 or less in the previous tax year or 30 or fewer full-time employees. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in a year up to $10,250 (maximum credit of $5000). The tax credit can be used to offset the cost of accommodations, including providing interpreters.

Medicaid providers: Qualified Medicaid Providers may bill Medicaid for reimbursement for sign language interpreters using code T1013-CG. See here for more information regarding interpreter reimbursement through Medicaid. Idaho Medicaid Interpreter Reimbursement FAQ

In an initial request you should include the date, time, general setting, and general location (virtual/town name) of the assignment. 

Once an interpreter has confirmed that they are available, give them the name of the Deaf client and relevant details of the setting. If there is anything to indicate a conflict of interest or that the setting is outside the interpreter’s scope of practice, the interpreter will decline the job at this point. You should also send the interpreters any materials they will need to be able to prepare for the assignment including any slide decks, agendas, etc.

Once you have confirmed your interpreter(s), notify the Deaf client(s) and include the name of the interpreter(s). 

No. Idaho Code § 54-29 clearly defines what constitutes someone who is interpreting regardless of the job title. If that person is functioning as an interpreter, they must be licensed.

An employee may use sign language to directly communicate with the Deaf client within the scope of their job, if the Deaf client is amenable to the arrangement. This is NOT the act of interpreting and DOES NOT require that they hold an interpreting license. It is best practice to have a policy in place to determine when an employee has met fluency standards.

Interpreting for school aged students in education and are authorized under the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act (IC § 33-1301 – IC § 33-1304)

Court (must abide by ICAR Rule 52)

Inconsequential situations (ordering food at a restaurant, shopping, carnival ride, etc.)

Private events (weddings, family reunions, etc.)

Religious services

Temporary interpreting services in “exigent emergency circumstances” until a qualified interpreter can be obtained

All other settings are subject to IC § 54-29 regardless of compensation.

If you would like to contact a Deaf person and have their phone number, you can simply call that number as you would any other phone number. This will connect you through a relay service. If the Deaf person is a sign language user, an ASL interpreter will relay the conversation between you. This service, know as Video Relay Service (VRS), is funded through the FCC, is secure, and fully compliant with HIPAA.

When receiving a call made through VRS, handle it as you would any other phone call.

No, unless the individual is a licensed interpreter, this is a violation of the Idaho Code 54-29. If the client-appointed interpreter goes forth with interpreting, they could potentially edit the client’s message, add their own opinions, answer for the individual, or impede the development of the client relationship. 

A minor child should NEVER be used as an interpreter except in an emergency involving imminent threat to the safety or welfare of an individual or the public.

Become an interpreter FAQs

If submitting a certification recognized by RID, a copy of your current RID membership is acceptable.
If submitting other certifications or passed exam results, these results need to be sent directly from the issuing body.

Yes, interpreters are required to obtain 10 hours every year. These are audited at random, interpreters are expected to have documentation at hand.Commonly used documentation includes Certificates of Attendance or an RID transcript.

When your original license is received, you need to submit your last quarterly report and CLEARLY state this will be the last quarterly report done, up to the date you received your original license.

  • Application submitted
  • Pass a competency examination or hold certification as defined by board rule
  • Obtained High School diploma or equivalent
  • License fee paid

  • Quarterly reports are due on or before:

    • January 10th
    • April 10th
    • July 10th
    • October 10th

    If the permit has not been in effect for the entire quarter, the report is due for that portion of the quarter in which the permit was in effect. It does not matter if you were actively interpreting or not, a report is due if your license was active during the quarter.

    If quarterly reports are not received by the specified due date, are inadequate, or document inadequate progress or incompetent practice the permit may be suspended or revoked upon notice and an opportunity to be heard.

    Quarterly reports must be on forms approved by the Board, attested to and signed by the permit holder and approved supervisor(s), and include:

    • a log of weekly supervisor contact
    • supervisor’s statement of completed training assignments by the permit holder
    • certification of attendance of any workshop or training sessions

    IDOPL Forms

    See Rule and name the section

  • A provisional permit holder must be supervised by a licensed interpreter in good standing.

    Meetings between supervisor and permit holder must occur weekly throughout the period of the permit, see application form for details.

    Supervisor Responsibilities

    • The supervisor is responsible for all approved practice of the permit holder.
    • Identify each setting in which the applicant may be allowed to work.
    • Review and sign quarterly reports
    • Be familiar with all laws and rules regarding sign language interpreting.
    • Relationship of a permit holder and their supervisor is public information.

    See Rule

    See Application form

If you provide services in Idaho, whether in person or through virtual services to Idaho clients, you must hold a valid Idaho license or out-of-state registration. See Interpreting In Idaho flowchart for license options.

In VRS settings, follow the requirements of the state you are physically located. If you are working in Idaho, whether at home or from a call center, you must hold a valid Idaho license. Idaho does not require interpreters working VRS from another state to hold an interpreting license.

The state of Idaho has allocated funding for the professional development of Idaho interpreters. See IdahoRID and the State Interpreter Education Coordinator [link to Educational Interpreter page] for more workshop information.

An interpreting license expires annually on your birthday. The first year, it expires one year from your next birthday (12+ months). 

Provisional permits expire 2 years after being granted.

Out-of-state registration expires December 31st of each year. Interpreters need to reapply for the registration annually. 

Check Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses website under license search to confirm when you need to renew your license.

No! You must apply for a license to interpret in Idaho. Your certification may serve as the credential to qualify for the license. 

Likewise, if you are licensed, you cannot claim to be certified unless you hold a current certification from another entity.

No! The law CLEARLY defines what constitutes interpreting, regardless of the job title. If someone is functioning as an interpreter, they need to be licensed.

A violation of the the license law constitutes a misdemeanor and any person convicted thereof shall be fined an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), or imprisoned in a county jail for a period not to exceed six (6) months, or shall be punished by both such fine and imprisonment.

Interpreters FAQs

Direct Contract: an entity may contract directly with licensed interpreters. The requesting entity has power to select interpreters with specific specializations or credentials and is responsible to ensure compliance with all applicable laws. This approach is generally associated with a lower cost and gives entities the ability to develop an ongoing relationship with an interpreter but is not suitable for urgent requests.

Agency: agencies that specialize in ASL interpretation work with the requester to coordinate all aspects of hiring and scheduling. Agencies use a network of interpreters that may include many of the same interpreters who contract directly as well as those who exclusively work through agencies. They ensure compliance (adhere to?) with applicable laws, will work with the requestor to provide continuity when possible, manage last minute replacements, and are more capable of filling urgent requests.

Small business tax credit

Medicaid code

DV Centralized Fund

Flat rate up to two hours

Teaming Practices

Cancellation policy

Interpreter Services FAQs

More Information Coming Soon.
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If you have any more questions regarding the Idaho code, please fill this out:

Effective July 1, 2018 changes were made to the “Speech and Hearing Services Practice Act” (IC § 54-2901 – IC § 54-2927) that could impact what you do when using a signed language interpreter in the State of Idaho. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter but when a signed language interpreter is used for communication, that interpreter is required to hold a valid license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL).

What is this about?

Effective July 1, 2018 signed language interpreters are required to have a valid license from the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL) to interpret in the State of Idaho, with few exceptions. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter

Where does this requirement come from?

This requirement is from IC § 54-2904(5)

Can I ask if the interpreter is licensed?

Yes, you can ask if the interpreter is licensed.

Can I ask the interpreter to show me their license?

Yes, the interpreter must have their license on them while working, either in paper format or digital format (a photo on their phone).

Can I bring my own interpreter? (Family member, friend, child)

No, interpreters must be licensed unless an exemption applies.

When are interpreters exempt from needing a license in the State of Idaho?

  • ITP Students work under the supervision of licensed interpreters
  • Deaf Interpreter (Must be registered)
  • Certified Out-of-state Interpreters (Must be registered & not to exceed 30 days)
  • Religious setting such as a church, synagogue, or other worship setting
  • Private, non-commercial, family event
  • Inconsequential situation: level of significance is such as that a licensed interpreter would not be deemed necessary for effective communication
  • Temporarily in exigent/ emergency circumstance
  • Courts and court services (abide by ICAR Rule 52)

Effective July 1, 2018, changes were made to the “Speech and Hearing Services Practice Act” (IC § 54-2901 – IC § 54-2927) that could impact what you do when using a signed language interpreter in the State of Idaho. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter but when a signed language interpreter is used for communication, that interpreter is required to hold a valid license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL).

What is this about?

Effective July 1, 2018, signed language interpreters are required to have a valid license from the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL) to interpret in the State of Idaho, with few exceptions. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter

Where does this requirement come from?

This requirement is from IC § 54-2904(5)

How do I know if I have to hire a licensed interpreter?

An interpreter must always have a license from IDOPL, unless an exemption applies.

Do I always have to hire a signed language interpreter?

No. Hiring a signed language interpreter depends upon individual preferences, accommodation requests, and organization policy. Please review your organizations policy regarding communication access.

When are Signed Language Interpreters exempt from licensure?

  • Interpreting for school aged students in education and are authorized under the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act (IC § 33-1301 – IC § 33-1304)
  • Court (must abide by ICAR Rule 52)
  • Inconsequential situations (ordering food at a restaurant)
  • Private events (weddings, funerals, etc.)
  • Religious settings

How can I find out if an interpreter is licensed?

  • You can ask the interpreter to show their license, it is required for them to have their license on them while working as an interpreter. You can also visit theIdaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses website – license search
  • 3 types of licenses:
    • SIGNP – Sign Language Interpreter Provisional
    • SIGNT – Sign Language Interpreter Out of State
    • SIGN – Sign Language Interpreter License
  • Deaf Interpreters are language specialists and are required to register with the State of Idaho – there is no license search for these specialists.

Can we just change the job title of that interpreter to something else?

No. The statute CLEARLY defines what constitutes someone who is interpreting regardless of the job title. If that person is functioning as an interpreter, they need to be licensed.

We have an employee who can sign, do they need to be licensed?

No. If the individual can sign, that is considered direct communication, NOT the act of interpreting.

What about emergency situations? Must I find a licensed interpreter before proceeding?

No. IC § 54-2905(h) states that in “exigent emergency circumstances,” you may use “temporary interpreting services until a qualified interpreter can be obtained.”

When I need a signed language interpreter, where can I find one?

  • The Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing has an interpreter directory that provides information to directly contact interpreters for services, found further down on this page.
  • The Idaho Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf also has an interpreter directory you can find interpreters and contact them directly.
  • Depending on your area and availability of local interpreters, you may contact the Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for additional contacts.

If the person who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing brings a friend, family member, or child with them to interpret, can they serve as a client-appointed interpreter?

No. If the client-appointed interpreter goes forth with interpreting, they could potentially edit the client’s message, add their own opinions, answer for the individual, or impede the development of the client relationship. A minor child cannot be used except in an emergency involving imminent threat to the safety or welfare of an individual or the public.

Effective July 1, 2018 changes were made to the “Speech and Hearing Services Practice Act” (IC § 54-2901 – IC § 54-2927) that could impact what you do when using a signed language interpreter in the State of Idaho. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter but when a signed language interpreter is used for communication, that interpreter is required to hold a valid license through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL).

What is this about?

Effective July 1, 2018 signed language interpreters are required to have a valid license from the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (IDOPL) to interpret in the State of Idaho, with few exceptions. This Act does not mandate the use of a signed language interpreter.

Where does this requirement come from?

This requirement is from IC § 54-2904(5)

General License Information

What are the requirements for obtaining a license?

  • Application submitted
  • 18 years of age
  • Pass a competency examination or achieved certification as defined by board rule
    • Both written and performance tests
  • Obtained High School diploma or equivalent
  • No felonies
  • License fee paid

What credentials do I need to get a license from the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses to interpret in Idaho?

Certifications accepted – must be current and valid

  • RID
  • NAD
  • BEI
  • Utah: Professional or Master level

Accepted Exams: Require BOTH Written and performance – Can mix-and-match

  • Written
    • NIC, CDI, EIPA, or any state-issued interpreting generalist written exam
  •  Performance
    • EIPA 4.0+ or RID recognized exam, passed within past 10 years

I’m certified, which means I’m licensed, right?

No, you are required to apply for a license in addition to your certification to interpret in the state of Idaho.

How do I apply for a license?

  • Go to IDOPL Forms
  • Select and complete the form that corresponds with the license you are applying for

What proof of documentation is needed for credentials?

  • If submitting a certification recognized by RID (excludes Ed:K-12), a copy of your current RID membership card is acceptable
  • If submitting certifications or passed exam results, these results need to be sent directly from the issuing body.

What is the cost of a license?

  • Original License
    • Application fee:  $25.00
    • License fee:  $70.00
  • Provisional License
    • Application fee:  $25.00
    • Provisional Permit fee:  $70.00
  • Out of State (Endorsement) License
    • Application fee:  $25.00
    • License fee:  $70.00
  • Deaf Interpreter Registration
    • No charge
  • Out of State Registration (work up to 30 days)
    • Registration fee:  $10.00

Am I required to obtain Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for my license?

Yes, interpreters are required to obtain 10 hours every year

When does my license expire?

The Original license will expire on your birthday with the exemption of the first year obtaining the license. Provisional licenses will expire 1 year after it was granted, and Out of State licenses will automatically expire December 31st of the year it was granted for. Check Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses  website under license search to confirm when you need to renew your license.

When are interpreters exempt from needing a license in the State of Idaho?

  • ITP Students work under the supervision of licensed interpreters
  • Deaf Interpreter (Must be registered)
  • Certified Out-of-state Interpreters (Must be registered & not to exceed 30 days)
  • Religious setting such as a church, synagogue, or other worship setting
  • Private, non-commercial, family event
  • Inconsequential situation: level of significance is such as that a licensed interpreter would not be deemed necessary for effective communication
  • Temporarily in exigent/ emergency circumstance
  • Courts and court services (abide by ICAR Rule 52)

Can my job title be changed, and I won’t need a license?

No. The statute CLEARLY defines what constitutes someone who is interpreting regardless of the job title. If someone is functioning as an interpreter, they need to be licensed, exemptions apply.

Provisional Permit

I recently received my provisional license and there is a quarterly report due. Do I need to submit a quarterly report?

If your license was granted during any time of the quarter the report is due for, yes. It does not matter if you were actively interpreting or not, a report is due if your license was active during the quarter.

Where do I find the quarterly reports? How do I submit them?

  • Go to IDOPL Forms
  • Follow the directions on the form to submit your quarterly report

What settings can a provisional interpreter interpret?

The settings allowed for an interpreter who is provisionally licensed depends entirely on the supervisor and provisional license holder’s agreement. This information can be found here

How do I transition from a provisional license to an original license?

  • You need to submit an original license application with appropriate documentation and full license fee
  • When your original license is received, you need to submit your last quarterly report and CLEARLY state this will be the last quarterly report done up to the date you received your original license.

Out of State License

If certified or licensed in another state, you may work in Idaho up to 30 days/year.

  • Must register BEFORE working: $10/year
  • Must report after every DAY, or TIME PERIOD worked, within 5 days after working
    • Please note: Failure to report may result in disciplinary action
  • May apply for Idaho license to work without restriction

*Out of State licenses follow the calendar year and ALL Out of State Licenses will expire December 31st of each year. (i.e. Out of State license was approved in November 2019, license will still expire December 31st, 2019)

What is the difference between an endorsement license and out of state registration?

  • Applying for an endorsement license is the method for those who have a current license in another state with requirements substantially similar to Idaho’s. Those seeking licensure in Idaho for the first time and do not hold or have not ever held a license in another state should fill out the original license application.
  • Out of state registration allows work in Idaho up to 30 days per year and requires reporting each DAY worked in Idaho.

Educational Interpreters

Educational interpreters must meet requirements mandated by the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act (IC § 33-1301 – IC § 33-1304). If requirements by EIA are met, working in educational setting for school aged students is waived from licensure requirement

  • Interpreting for public school-aged STUDENTS only
  • Adults: License is required

Working outside an educational setting for school aged students in public school requires a general license or exemption. If an interpreter does not meet the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act requirements, it is unlicensed practice

Do educational interpreters need to pass a written knowledge test?

The Idaho Educational Interpreter Act (IC § 33-1301 – IC § 33-1304) does not require a written test comment. Therefore, interpreters in educational settings working with school aged students are not required to have passed a written knowledge exam. However, as stated above, if interpreting for adults or outside of a public school setting, a license is required.

Can educational interpreters, who meet qualifications for the Educational Interpreter Act, but are not licensed, interpret for adults who are Deaf or hard of hearing in a public school, K-12 setting? (IEP meetings, assemblies, parent-teacher conferences, etc.)

No. The Idaho Educational Interpreter Act clearly defines an educational interpreter as “a person employed in the Idaho public schools, working with school aged students, to provide interpreting services to students who are deaf, hard of hearing or DeafBlind.”

Can an educational interpreter interpret for school sponsored “after-school” and extracurricular activities?

Yes. If the interpretation is ONLY for students.

Can School Districts just change the job title of an educational interpreter to avoid following the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act?

No. The statute CLEARLY defines what constitutes someone who is interpreting regardless of the job title they hold. If the employee functions as an interpreter, they need to meet the requirements in the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act.

Who can interpret for a student in preschool?

As of July 1, 2020, the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act now includes preschool aged students. Meaning all interpreters that work with students in a public school setting that is school aged now follow the Idaho Educational Interpreter Act (IC § 33-1301 – IC § 33-1304)

Can someone with a provisional permit from IDOPL interpret for adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in an educational setting? (IEP meetings, assemblies, parent-teacher conferences, etc.)

  • Each provisional permit holder will have a plan with their supervisor specifying what settings and situations the provisional permit holder can interpret in. If there are no restrictions interpreting in these settings, then that is acceptable. For the list of Provisional Permit holders and their approved settings, that information can be found here
  • Please remember that an IEP meeting is a procedure to complete legally binding document and falls under a legal setting.

Additional Resources

Download PDF

Regardless of reimbursement through Medicaid, providers are required by law to provide interpretive services at the request of a Deaf or Hard of Hearing participant or their companion to ensure meaningful access and effective communication in accordance with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act; and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. This document is provided for information purposes at the time of posting; check the Idaho Medicaid information for the most current guidance. 

How do I bill Medicaid when there are multiple interpreters? 

  • Many situations can require the use of multiple interpreters to ensure effective access and occupational safety. Some contributing factors include the duration and intensity of an appointment, in addition to the linguistic needs present. 
  • When there are multiple interpreters, follow appropriate documentation process as described in the Idaho Medicaid Provider Handbook 9.10.1. 
  • Bill for the total number of interpreting service minutes, in 15-minute increments, for all interpreters. 
  • Example: A 90-minute appointment requires two interpreters, each providing 90 minutes of service. Bill Medicaid for 180 minutes of service rendered. 

Is my sign language interpreter a “Qualified Medicaid Provider”? 

  • Interpreters are not a category of “Qualified Medicaid Providers”. The only documentation that the interpreter needs to supply is limited to their name, title, and signature. Only the patient and the Medicaid provider rendering services need to hold Medicaid documentation.  
  • You may ask to see interpreters’ license to practice in the State of Idaho for verification of their credentials to interpret.  

The interpreter submitted an invoice with a flat fee or a 2-hour minimum. Don’t they have to follow Medicaid guidelines to bill in 15-minute increments? 

  • Interpreters’ billing practices usually do not align with Medicaid reimbursement guidelines. Your office is responsible for covering any remaining costs associated with hiring interpreters. 
  • Medicaid may be billed for interpreting services rendered in conjunction with a Medicaid billable service, in 15-minute increments. Interpreters will bill for their total time according to their terms of service, which will include time outside of provider minutes. 
  • In addition to Medicaid reimbursement, there are tax benefits that defray the cost of providing accommodations.  

 

Can a family member interpret at the participant’s request in accordance with 9.10. of the Medicaid Providers’ Handbook? 

  • A participant may waive their right to an interpreter (follow your organizational protocol) however they may NOT have an unlicensed friend or family member render sign language interpreting services in accordance with IC§54-29, “Interpreters and translators must meet state and professional licensure requirements and be at least eighteen years of age,” (9.10.3). 

 

Can interpreters render services for telehealth appointments? 

  • Yes, interpreters can provide HIPAA-compliant interpretation via telehealth. Medicaid will reimburse for these services at the standard rate. See Idaho Medicaid Provider Handbook 9.12. 
  • Regardless of the place of residence for an interpreter providing virtual services, they must be licensed to interpret in the state of Idaho in accordance with IC§54-29. 

 

Will Medicaid reimburse interpretive service if the patient is not who requires an interpreter? 

  • If the participant is a child under the age of 18 years and is receiving a Medicaid reimbursed service, interpretive services are allowed for communicating with the child’s parent/guardian. 
  • If the participant is not under the age of 18 or under guardianship, but a companion requires interpretive services, you cannot bill Medicaid. However, you must still provide interpretive services to maintain compliance with accessibility laws.  

Since it is in the IEP, can classroom interpreting services be billed to Medicaid? 

  • No. Educational Services are not reimbursable: Services provided in buildings, rooms, or areas designated or used as a school or an education setting, which are provided during the specific hours and time periods in which the education instruction takes place in the school day, and period of time for these students, which are included in the individual educational plan (IEP) for the student. 

 

Can I receive reimbursement through Medicaid for learning American Sign Language (ASL) or providing direct service in ASL? 

  • No. Reimbursement is specific to interpretive services rendered by non-institutional providers.  

What procedure code do I use to bill for interpretive services? 

  • T1013-CG – Sign Language Interpretive Services 
  • Interpretive services are reimbursed in 15-minute increments. 

7-1-1

To use relay services in Idaho, simply dial 7-1-1. Or call one of the toll free numbers below:

Idaho Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

TTY/ASCII 1.800.377.3529 Voice: 1.800.377.1363 Speech-to-Speech: 1.888.791.3004 Spanish-to-Spanish: 1.866.252.0684 If you have suggestions, comments, or concerns, please contact: Hamilton Relay Hamilton Relay provides traditional relay services for the state of Idaho including TTY, Voice Carry Over (VCO), Hearing Carry Over (HCO), Speech-to-Speech, Spanish-to-Spanish, and CapTel. When you connect with Idaho Relay, a Communication Assistant (CA) will connect on the phone with you. Simply give the CA the number you wish to call and your call will be processed promptly, professionally and accurately.

CapTel

Idaho offers CapTel through the Idaho Relay Service.  CapTel is a new technology developed by Ultratec, Inc., Madison, Wisconsin that allows individuals with hearing loss to view word-for-word captions of their telephone conversations.  This service is perfect for individuals who have good speech but do not hear well over the phone.

Internet Relay

Internet Relay (or IP Relay) gives those who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech disabled the ability to place a relay call directly from a web browser.  Consumers can use any service provider they choose.  Below is a list of Internet Relay providers in alphabetical order:

Video Relay Service (VRS)

VRS uses communication assistants who are skilled interpreters to relay calls in sign language, rather than communication assistants to relay calls in text. Consumers can use any service provider they choose.  Below is a list of VRS providers in alphabetical order:

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a service utilizing video cameras to provide sign language interpreting services without an interpreter present. A typical VRI setup involves a deaf and hearing user at one location with a camera and television screen, and an interpreter at another location, typically a call center, who also has a camera and television screen. Both cameras offer video and audio connectivity, and the interpreter facilitates communication between the deaf and hearing users who are located together. The hearing person can be heard by the remote interpreter, who interprets into sign language that the deaf person can see on the television monitor. In turn, the deaf person signs to the camera and the interpreter can see what is being said, and then voices it for the hearing person to hear. The terms Video Remote Interpreting and Video Relay Service should not be confused. The latter was originally called Video Relay Interpreting, but the name was changed and now the terms refer to two separate and distinct services.

Video Remote Interpreting Service Directory

State and Federal Laws FAQs

Read about ADA Compliance as it applies to your organization on the Resources page.

You can file an ADA Complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice alleging disability discrimination against a State or local government or a public accommodation (including, for example, a restaurant, doctor’s office, retail store, hotel, etc.) online, by mail, or fax.

You can file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Opportunities Commission if you believe you have been discriminated against by an employer, labor union, or employment agency when applying for a job or while on the job because of your deafness. EEOC has a video phone system for the deaf and hard of hearing community to communicate with the agency directly. The VP number is (844) 234-5122. The VP line is open 7AM – 6PM EST.

How to File a Complaint?

For information on how and where to file a complaint, please contact our office. CDHH provides guidance and referrals to help navigate the complaint process. CDHH does not provide legal advice or file on your behalf.

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An interpreting license expires annually on your birthday. The first year, it expires one year from your next birthday (12+ months). Provisional permits expire 2 years after being granted. Out-of-state registration expires December 31st of each year. Interpreters need to reapply for the registration annually. Check Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses website under license search to confirm when you need to renew your license.
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