What Makes a Qualified Interpreter?

When you need an interpreter in important conversations — perhaps at the doctor's office, at the NAV or at the police — it is not enough that the person simply knows two languages well. A qualified interpreter offers much more than language skills.

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More Than Language Proficiency

In public settings, the Interpreting Act requires that interpreters be registered in the National Interpreter Register under IMDi. This means that the interpreter has completed formal education or passed an authorization exam, thereby gaining professional knowledge of the interpreting field.

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A qualified interpreter also understands the ethical framework that governs the profession and is bound by confidentiality. They are trained to handle demanding situations where precise communication is crucial. These are skills that require training and experience — not something one learns just by being bilingual.

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Categories Explained

The National Interpreter Register has five qualification levels, from A to E, with A being the highest. Here is an overview of all the categories:

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• Category A: State Authorization and Bachelor's Degree
• Category B: Bachelor's degree or state authorisation and basic subject (30 credits)
• Category C: State Authorisation
• Category D:
  • For Spoken Language Interpreters: Basic subject (30 credits interpreting in the public sector)
  • For Sign Language Interpreters: Interpreting education completed before the Bachelor of Sign Language was introduced.
• Category E: The Bilingual Test and Course (TAO) or Certified Translator/Professional Translator and Course (TAO)

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Security for All Parties

IMDi holds the professional responsibility for the register and ensures transparency around interpreter qualifications in more than 70 languages. This provides security both for you as the service provider and for the person receiving the interpretation.

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When you choose a qualified interpreter, you gain documented competence and professional integrity. It’s not only about accurate interpreting — it’s about creating space for genuine understanding and respect across language barriers. In situations where communication can affect your rights and opportunities, a qualified interpreter is your guarantee to be heard and understood.