The California Court Interpreter Workforce Pilot Program was approved by the Judicial Council in May 2024 and as of April 2025, it had engaged 117 participants across 19 courts.
The program offers an incentive to candidates by reimbursing them for their interpreting training expenses and examination fees, covering up to three exams. It also requires participants to agree to a minimum three-year employment period with the courts upon passing their exams and registering with the Judicial Council.
The first cohort began the program in January 2025, and the second cohort followed in March 2025. On April 15, 2025, Stanislaus County Superior Court announced it had joined the program and that it is hiring Spanish and Punjabi interpreters.
Prospective candidates must prove bilingual proficiency in a language for which the California Courts offer certification or registration. Those aspiring to interpret in American Sign Language must already hold an ASL Generalist Credential, such as the RID Generalist Certification.
Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years of age, possess authorization to work in the United States, establish residency in California, and pass a successful background check. Once admitted to the program, participants are required to submit progress reports to the Program Manager every six months.
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The program description specifies that it “is not a school and does not provide interpreting classes. The Pilot Program does provide participants with a training plan which has extensive education resources that the participant may select from to prepare for the interpreter examinations.”
While participating courts will offer positions to successful candidates, these opportunities are contingent upon available openings and funding.
Aspiring interpreters have until the end of 2026 to successfully complete all necessary qualifications.