Hiring a Sign Language Interpreter in Wisconsin: A Quick Guide

If you're working with someone who is Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing in Wisconsin, it's essential to understand your legal responsibilities and how to secure qualified interpreting services. This guide outlines what you need to know.

The Deaf Person’s Legal Right to Communication Access

Under federal laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as Wisconsin state law, Deaf individuals have the right to effective communication in public settings.

It is never the Deaf person’s responsibility to provide or pay for their own interpreter. The obligation, including cost, falls on the service provider, employer, school, or agency involved. It is inappropriate to ask the Deaf person to bring family members to interpret.

In Wisconsin, all working interpreters must be licensed, either by DSPS, or DPI, depending on the setting. Other specific settings may require further certifications and licenses such as legal or mental health settings.

In educational settings, D/HH students are entitled to a qualified interpreter under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA.) In Wisconsin, interpreters serving K-12 students must hold an educational interpreter license [O020] issued by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

If your school district needs to hire a licensed K-12 interpreter, click here.

WI DVR: If you are an employer looking to hire a deaf person or already have deaf employees, here are guidelines on how to work with interpreters

ADA Guide for Law Enforcement,

ADA Guide for Law Enforncement on Communication

ADA Guide for Health Care

ADA Guide for Hotels / Lodging

When an Interpreter is Required

You're likely required to provide an interpreter in the following settings, including, but not limited to:

Setting Examples

Medical Hospitals, clinics, mental health sessions, urgent care

Legal Courtrooms, police interviews, attorney meetings

Educational K-12 schools, colleges, training programs

Employment Job interviews, onboarding, trainings, staff meetings

Public Services Government offices, housing assistance, voting, social services

Public Events Conferences, lectures, community meetings open to the public

Religious Services Worship services, church functions, weddings, funerals

Failure to provide access may result in legal action, fines, or discrimination claims.

The Perspective of the Deaf Client

It’s important to remember that Deaf individuals often have little control or input in scheduling interpreters or the interpreting process. Many times, they may not even know whether an interpreter will be provided until the moment someone shows up, and often a complete stranger (interpreter) is assigned and tasked with (and trusted to) facilitate deeply personal or critical conversations.

Sometimes the interpreter may not be a good language match for their sign language or may lack situational knowledge or vocabulary needed to interpret effectively. The power in the situation lies with the hiring entity, not the Deaf person. That makes it even more important to approach interpreting services with thoughtfulness, respect, and collaboration.

Whenever possible:

Involve the Deaf individual in communication planning when possible. This builds trust and ensures better outcomes for everyone involved.
Confirm in advance that an interpreter will be provided.
If you know the name of the interpreter, share that information with the Deaf individual ahead of time.
If the Deaf individual expresses concerns or has preferences, honor them whenever feasible.
If you have preparation materials (e.g., an agenda, PowerPoint slides, legal documents, or situational materials), provide them to the interpreter ahead of time so they can prepare and ensure effective communication.
Note: Interpreters follow HIPAA and FERPA confidentiality requirements in addition to their professional code of ethics.

Interpreter Licensing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin requires sign language interpreters to be licensed. The correct license depends on the setting in which the interpreter is working. Specialized certifications may be required for certain assignments or settings, such as legal or mental health situations.

Verify licenses before hiring:

How to Hire an Interpreter in Wisconsin

For occasional needs, you can either hire through a reputable agency or directly contract with a freelance interpreter. If you have an ongoing need for your Deaf employees or students, you may consider hiring a staff interpreter. (for tips for K12 schools, click here)

List of Wisconsin Interpreting Agencies: Click here

In more casual or informal settings, such as community picnics, family parties, or informal gatherings, it may be appropriate to use:

Volunteer interpreters who are licensed
Interpreter training program (ITP) students under supervision (for non-critical needs)

While volunteer or student interpreters can be helpful, always ensure the Deaf individual(s) consents and that communication needs are still met.

Other Key Considerations

Types of Interpreters and Communication Needs

Not all Deaf or hard of hearing individuals use the same communication methods. It’s important to ask about preferences and match them with the appropriate interpreter.

Note: Most interpreting agencies will already have language notes on file for repeat Deaf clients. In these cases, you likely won’t need to ask the Deaf individual what kind of interpreter to request. However, if the person expresses a preference, it is essential to honor their request to ensure effective communication.