The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) offers four written tests for various certifications including the NAD-RID National Interpreter Certification Knowledge Test, Oral Transliteration Certificate Written Test, the Certified Deaf Interpreter Written Test and the Specialist Certificate: Legal.
The performance test is the second half of the four certification tests; it asks interpreters to sign for a tester to determine their proficiency at communication through ASL. Each test is designed to put aspiring interpreters through the ringer to make sure they are field ready. Difficulty largely depends on preparedness. However, the tests certify only top level interpreters.
RID realizes that some people, including those that may make great interpreters, simply do not test well. For this reason, they have created the Alternative Pathway to Eligibility, a multistep process over years of work that grants certification to interpreters. This process includes full-time work experience, interpreter-related training and specific volunteer services to RID. While the stress of passing a test is eliminated, the alternative pathway asks for many more requirements over a longer time, making it an equally trying experience.
The amount of experience, practice and study time each tester has prior to taking the NIC test accounts for the level of difficulty that person experiences when taking the test. Dedicating yourself to becoming a qualified interpreter is no easy process, but with ample preparation and confidence, the NIC test is nothing to fear.