1100 Introduction

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This policy establishes the standards, requirements, and administration of the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI). Texas BEI and BEI both refer to the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters program.

1110 General Provisions

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Legal Authority

The BEI program exercises its powers and duties under the following statutes:

• Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 81;
• Texas Government Code, Chapter 57;
• Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, §21.003; 
• Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 38.31(g);
• Texas Government Code, §2001.055;
• Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53; and
• Texas Administrative Code, Title 26, Chapter 360

Purpose

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) administers the BEI program.  The program evaluates interpreter competency, issue certifications at multiple proficiency levels, and maintains a statewide registry of qualified interpreters.

The program certifies qualified interpreters who can facilitate communication between people who are deaf or hard of hearing and people who are hearing.

Registry of Qualified Interpreters

The program maintains a public registry of qualified BEI certified interpreters available to serve people who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

The program provides current lists of certified court interpreters to each state court.

BEI Advisory Board

The BEI Advisory Board helps the program evaluate and certify interpreters to ensure competency across proficiency levels.

The BEI Advisory Board recommends certification standards to the program based on interpreter proficiency.

1120 Certification Eligibility and Requirements

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This subchapter discusses requirements that apply to all applicants, regardless of the level or type of certification sought. More requirements specific to each certification type are provided in 2000, Generalist Certification, 3000, Court Interpreter Certification, 4000, Medical Interpreter Certification and 5000, Trilingual Certification.

General Program Eligibility

The program requires all applicants to be: 

• at least 18 years old;
• hold a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have no criminal convictions that would disqualify the applicant from certification.

Criminal Background Check and Attestation

BEI conducts criminal background checks on applicants and certificate holders. Applicants and current BEI certificate holders must fully and accurately self-disclose any criminal conviction, deferred adjudication or pending adjudication:

• at the time of application for testing or certification;
• during annual renewal;
• as part of the five-year recertification process;
• at any time such information arises after submission of an application or issuance of certification; or
• at the request of BEI.

The program reviews disclosed information to determine if:

• the offense is relevant to the duties of a BEI-certified interpreter; and 
• certification or continued certification would pose a risk to the public's health, safety or welfare.

Failure to disclose required information or to respond to requests may result in denial of certification, administrative closure, forfeiture of fees or disciplinary action. Criminal conviction records are maintained and used only as authorized by rule and per confidentiality and records-management requirements.

Additional criminal conviction review procedures are outlined in 1180, Criminal Conviction Records.

Ethical Standards

The BEI program requires all applicants and current certificate holders to follow the ethical standards identified in the Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) set forth by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID): 

• Interpreters follow standards of confidential communication.
• Interpreters possess the professional skills and knowledge required for the specific interpreting situation.
• Interpreters conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to the specific interpreting situation.
• Interpreters demonstrate respect for consumers.
• Interpreters demonstrate respect for colleagues, interns and students of the profession.
• Interpreters maintain ethical business practices.
• Interpreters engage in professional development.

Visit www.RID.org for a full explanation of the Code of Professional Conduct.

1130 Provisional Certificates

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

BEI may issue provisional certificates to applicants certified in another jurisdiction who:

• have at least two years of certification in good standing;
• have passed a BEI-recognized test; and
• are sponsored by a BEI-certified interpreter.

The program reserves the right to waive the sponsorship requirement upon a determination of hardship.

Provisional certificates remain valid until the program approves or denies full certification.

The program issues a final determination on a complete application not later than the 90th calendar day after the date the program receives all required application materials. This is unless extended due to pending test results.

The program may close the application if the applicant fails to provide required materials documentation or information requested by the program on time.

An applicant whose application is closed may submit a new application per current program requirements. This includes payment of any applicable fees. 

All decisions about provisional certificates are final and not subject to appeal.

1140 BEI Testing

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Testing Sites

Testing sites are managed by BEI or by a contracted service provider. All performance tests are currently proctored in Austin.

Confidentiality Statement

Applicants must sign a confidentiality statement before their test, which prohibits discussing or divulging the contents of the test. The commitment to confidentiality includes topics, subject matter or specific vocabulary.

Breach of the confidentiality statement, cheating, or compromising the integrity of the tests are grounds for denying an application, suspending or revoking an interpreter’s certificate. 

Anyone found to have gained unauthorized access to, or divulged confidential testing materials, is responsible for recovering the costs necessary to redevelop new testing materials.

Test Administration

Written Tests

The assigned proctor provides instructions and testing materials for written tests. This includes a test packet and an answer sheet. 

Record all responses on the answer sheet before time expires. Additional time is not granted. Answers not recorded on the answer sheet are scored as incorrect or unanswered.

All testing materials must be returned to the proctor at the end of the written test session. Test materials or notes may not be removed from the testing room.

The applicant may reapply and pay the fee again six months after the failed attempt if they did not receive a passing score.

Performance Tests

An assigned proctor administers and records the applicant’s test session for performance tests. Once testing has begun, the recording may not be stopped, rewound or replayed. Testing materials may be paused briefly only after the completion of a section and before the next section begins. Applicants are prohibited from rewinding or reviewing their recorded performance. 

After the test has started, applicants may not leave the testing room. They must remain present for the duration of the test.

Request for Accommodations

Applicants requesting reasonable accommodations submit the request and required supporting documentation no later than 30 calendar days before the requested test date. Requests submitted after this timeframe may delay scheduling.

Requests must include current documentation from a certified diagnosing professional dated within the past two years.

Email requests to DHHS BEI.

BEI determines accommodations after a verification of disability eligibility made by the HHSC Office of Civil Rights (OCR). Decisions are final.

Rescheduling Tests

Applicants who need to reschedule their test date must do so within 30 days of the approved cancellation. Testing must be completed within 90 days of the cancellation.

Test Results

Written Tests

Written test results are available no later than 30 days after the test is administered. The applicant is notified by email if there are more delays. 

Applicants who do not receive a passing score must:

• wait to retake the test at least six months after the test was administered;
• submit a new application and fee to retake the test; and
• comply with all eligibility requirements.

Performance Tests

The evaluation coordinator must report test results within 40 days after the test is administered for performance tests. Program notifies the applicant by email within 10 days following the 40th day if there are more delays.

Applicants awarded certification are notified of the results and:

• added to the database of certified interpreters; and
• mailed a wallet-sized card with information about the requirements for annual certificate maintenance and five-year certificate renewal.

Unsuccessful applicants are notified of the results and must:

• wait to retake the test at least six months after the test was administered;
• submit a new application and fee to retake the test; and
• comply with all eligibility requirements.

The notification letter has test results and provides information about retaking the performance test.

1150 Renewal and Recertification

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Validity

BEI certificates are valid for five years and are subject to annual renewal.

Certificate Renewals

A certificate holder must renew their certificate annually by paying the certificate renewal fee online at the BEI Registry before the expiration date. The program sends certificate renewal notification emails at least 60 days before the expiration date. A certificate holder's failure to receive notice does not prevent the expiration of a certificate.

Late renewal fees apply based on the duration of expiration.

Certificates expired for one year or more require reapplication.

Certificate Expiration

Certification expires on the due date. 

A certificate holder's certificate expires if the annual renewal fee is not paid by the expiration date. When a certificate expires due to nonpayment of the annual renewal fee, the certificate holder is emailed an expiration notice. 

Continuing to interpret when an interpreter certificate is required and the only certification held is an expired BEI certificate is always a violation of HHS rules.

Certificate Reinstatement

An eligible person may renew an expired certificate by completing an Annual Certificate Renewal, or Multiple-Certificate Annual Renewal application. They do this online at the BEI Registry by paying the applicable fee. 

The following restrictions apply:

• A person whose certificate is expired for 90 days or less may renew the certificate by paying the program a renewal fee online. The fee is equal to one and a half times the normally required renewal fee.
• A person whose certificate is expired for more than 90 days but less than one year may renew the certificate. They must pay the program a renewal fee online equal to two times the normally required renewal fee.
• A person whose certificate is expired for one year or more may not renew the certificate. The person may get a new certificate by complying with the requirements and procedures. This includes the testing requirements to get a certificate.

Multiple Certificates

A person with more than one Texas BEI certificate must comply with all annual certificate renewal, five-year recertification, and continuing education requirements to maintain their certifications. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) applied toward one certificate may not be used to satisfy the requirements of another certificate.

When a current BEI certificate holder is awarded another BEI certificate, the current and new certificates are assigned a single, new five-year certification cycle. The new cycle starts on the award date of the most recently issued certificate(s). 

CEUs earned before the multiple certificate award date are void.

Recertifications

Five-Year Recertification

Certificate holders must earn the required CEUs for their certificate type during each five-year certification cycle. CEU credit for the same workshop or training activity may not be awarded more than once within the same five-year certification cycle.

To maintain certification, certificate holders must apply for recertification at the end of each five‑year period to extend it for five more years. The program will issue a recertification notification to eligible certificate holders approximately 60 days prior to the certificate expiration date; however, failure to receive notification does not extend or prevent certificate expiration.

Prior to the expiration date, certificate holders must complete all recertification requirements through the BEI Registry, including:

• submission of a Five‑Year Recertification or Multiple‑Certificate Five‑Year Recertification request; 
• payment of the required renewal fee online; and
• documentation verifying completion of required CEUs for program review.

Recertification is not complete until all required components have been submitted and approved by the program. All CEUs must be completed within the applicable five-year certification period, and only CEUs earned during that period are eligible for credit.

Insufficient CEUs for Recertification

Failure to complete all required recertification components by the expiration date results in certificate expiration.

Five-Year Certificate Expiration

A certificate holder's certification expires if they fail to earn the required amount of CEUs by the five-year recertification due date. If the certificate expires, they become a lapsed certificate holder.

A lapsed certificate holder has 364 days from the expiration date to resolve recertification deficiencies and submit all required documentation and fees. 

A lapsed certificate holder may not provide interpreting services in settings requiring BEI certification. They will be removed from the Public BEI Registry until certification is restored.

Failure to resolve deficiencies within the applicable timeframe will require reapplication and compliance with all current certification requirements.

Recertification by Testing

A person with an expired certification may get a new certificate by meeting all:

• current eligibility; 
• application; and 
• testing requirements in effect at the time they reapply.

1160 Continuing Education for Interpreters (CEUs)

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Certificate holders must complete CEU requirements for each certificate held. They must make sure all CEUs applied toward recertification are earned within the active certification cycle.

Continuing Education Requirements for Recertification

Certificate holders must complete CEU requirements related to their certificate type(s) every five-year cycle.

CEUs used to satisfy the requirements for one BEI certificate may not be applied to satisfy the requirements for any other BEI certificate.

Refer to the following of this document for certificate-specific requirements:

• 2, Generalist Certification;
• 3, Court Interpreter Certification;
• 4, Medical Interpreter Certification; and 
• 5, Trilingual Certification.

CEUs

One CEU equals 10 clock hours of participation in an organized professional development activity. Partial CEUs may be awarded in proportion to documented instructional time.

CEU activities must support interpreter competency, ethical practice, professional development, or specialty-specific knowledge relevant to the certificate held.

Certificate holders must submit enough documentation for program to verify participation and instructional time. The program reserves the right to approve or deny CEU credit submitted.

Activities lacking sufficient documentation, measurable instructional time, or professional relevance do not qualify for CEU credit.

Academic coursework, dissertation study, thesis work, practicum participation, independent study, and institutionally recognized research activities from an accredited university may qualify for CEU consideration. It must be supported by sufficient documentation that demonstrates instructional time and CEU category relevance.

The program may request supplemental documentation to verify research-related activities or academic credit reflected on a transcript or institutional record.

Refer to the BEI Rubric (PDF) for examples of qualifying activities and documentation standards. 

1170 Program Fees

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

All BEI Program fees collected are non-refundable. The program accepts payment online through the public BEI Registry.

Test results and certificates are withheld until payment is received in full. Applications are closed, and fees are forfeited if not completed within 30 days. This includes selecting a test slot offered by the program.

Annual certificate renewal or five-year recertification fees not paid in full will result in the certificate expiring and late fees being assessed.

Testing Fee Schedule

Program administered testing fees are listed below:

Renewal Fee Schedule

Fees for annual certificate renewal and five-year recertification are as follows:

Fee Forfeiture

Testing fees are forfeited if:

• the applicant fails to appear for their confirmed appointment; or
• in the case of a rescheduled appointment, does not reschedule within 90 days of their initial test date.

Exceptions to Fee Forfeiture

An applicant may cancel or reschedule a testing appointment without forfeiture of fees if approval is granted by the program. Approval is contingent on the applicant providing documentation justifying the unforeseeable and unavoidable circumstance that directly prevented attendance at the scheduled test appointment.

Proctoring Fees

Test sites other than BEI-HHSC locations may charge a proctoring fee to be paid by the applicant.

Military Applicant Fee Waiver

The program may waive applicable certification fees for a military applicant who meets all certification eligibility requirements and submits documentation demonstrating qualifying military status.

A qualifying military applicant may include:

• an active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces or the Texas Military Department serving in good standing;
• a veteran who was honorably discharged or discharged under honorable conditions; or
• the spouse of an active-duty service member, reserve member, National Guard member or qualifying veteran.

Acceptable documentation may include:

• a current military identification card; 
• official military orders discharge records;
• DD Form 214; 
• veteran identification; or
• other documentation the program determines is enough to verify status.

The program may request more information as necessary to confirm eligibility for a fee waiver.

A fee waiver does not waive test, training, conduct, continuing education, or any other certification requirement unless otherwise authorized by law or policy.

The program reserves the authority to review each request individually and determine eligibility based on the documentation provided and applicable requirements.

1180 Criminal Conviction Records

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Introduction

The program is authorized to receive, review, and evaluate criminal conviction record information per the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Title 26, Rule 100.735 and Rule 360.227. This allows them to determine eligibility for interpreter testing, certification, renewal, recertification, and continued compliance with BEI program requirements.

Criminal conviction record information is maintained per applicable confidentiality, privacy, and records-management requirements.

Criminal History Review Authority and Disclosure Requirements

Applicants and certificate holders must disclose criminal conviction information per 1120, Certification Eligibility and Requirements.

This disclosure obligation applies whether the offense occurred in Texas or another jurisdiction.

Criminal conviction record information must be disclosed to BEI at the following times:

• at the time of application for interpreter testing or certification;
• during annual certificate renewal;
• as part of the five-year recertification process;
• at any time after submission of an application or issuance of certification when new criminal conviction information arises; and
• upon request by BEI.

The BEI program may review:

• criminal convictions;
• deferred adjudications;
• pending criminal charges;
• plea agreements; 
• registry findings; and 
• other relevant background information per applicable federal and state law, HHSC policy and professional standards.

The BEI program holds discretion to determine how such resources are applied. BEI is not required to adopt any external matrix, guidance, or standard in whole or in part.

Applicants and certificate holders must fully disclose criminal history information requested by HHSC or the BEI program. They must provide supporting documentation on request.

Failure to disclose requested information, providing incomplete information, or providing false or misleading information may result in denial, suspension, revocation, refusal of renewal or other disciplinary action.

Criminal History Determinations

The BEI program may:

• deny an application or test eligibility;
• refuse renewal; 
• suspend, revoke, restrict, condition, or otherwise take disciplinary action about a certification based on criminal history information.

This includes:

• Convictions; deferred adjudications; pleas of guilty or nolo contendere;
• pending criminal matters; or 
• other relevant conduct, when such conduct is determined to be substantially related to the duties, responsibilities, ethics, or professional fitness required of a certified interpreter.

Criminal conduct may be related to the interpreting profession when it impacts a person’s ability to:

• maintain confidentiality;
• exercise professional judgment;
• communicate accurately and ethically;
• interact safely and appropriately with people using interpreting services;
• uphold public trust; or
• provide services to vulnerable populations in medical, legal, educational, governmental or community settings.

Th BEI program may consider the following convictions with review thresholds unless otherwise required by law to evaluate criminal history:

The offenses identified in this section are not exhaustive. They do not limit the authority of the BEI program to evaluate any other criminal history relevant to professional fitness, protection of people using interpreting services or program integrity.

The BEI program reserves the right to: 

• extend or reduce review thresholds when appropriate;
• require more documentation or evidence of rehabilitation;
• conduct individualized reviews for unique circumstances; and
• determine if approval, conditional approval, disciplinary action, or continued certification is appropriate.

Conviction review periods are measured from the date all sentencing requirements, parole, mandatory supervision, probation, or deferred adjudication requirements were successfully completed.

Individualized Review

Per 26 TAC Rule 100.735, when appropriate, the BEI program may conduct an individualized review of criminal history information.

To determine if a criminal conviction directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of a certified interpreter, the program considers each of the following factors:

• the nature and seriousness of the crime;
• the relationship of the crime to the purposes requiring certification and the duties and ethical responsibilities of a certified interpreter;
• the level that certification offers a chance to further engage in the same type of criminal activity that the person was involved in previously;
• the relationship of the crime to the ability, capacity, or fitness required to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of a certified interpreter; and
• any correlation between the elements of the crime and the duties and responsibilities of a certified interpreter.
• completion of probation, deferred adjudication, parole, community supervision, expunction, nondisclosure, or similar legal relief does not guarantee eligibility, certification, or approval.

1190 Interpreter Complaints

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Introduction

This section outlines the BEI policy to receive, review, investigate, and resolve complaints submitted against BEI certificate holders. The policy makes sure every complaint is processed timely and with transparency. It follows the applicable statutes and rules in the Texas Administrative Code (TAC).

The policy only applies to interpreters with a valid Texas BEI certificate at the time of the alleged incident.

Definitions

Business Day: Any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or a state-recognized holiday when the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is open for normal business operations.

Complaint: A formal, written statement submitted to the BEI program. It alleges that a Texas BEI certificate holder may have violated HHSC rules per:

• 26 TAC 100.735 and 360.227; or 
• a standard of conduct from the Code of Professional Conduct for interpreters.

Complainant: Any person, group, or organization that signs and submits a complaint to the BEI program.

Fact-Finding: The process of information collection and review. It helps to determine if enough evidence exists to show a rule or standard was violated.

Program: Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI).

Respondent: The Texas BEI-certified interpreter named in the complaint.

Jurisdiction and Authority

BEI has authority only over interpreters who hold a BEI certificate issued by the Texas BEI program. This authority applies no matter where the interpreter lives when a complaint is made.

Complaints about interpreters certified by another state must be handled by the agency that issued the certification.

Program may review complaints involving court interpreter services if the services were provided without a valid Texas BEI court certification. This is per Texas Government Code 57.026.

Program may help with referrals for complaints about interpreters who are not certified by Texas BEI, as appropriate and as permitted by law. The program may refer complaints to external groups such as the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).

Filing a Complaint

Submit complaints against Texas BEI interpreters using Form 3950, BEI General Complaints. Include: 

• the name and identifying information of the respondent;
• a clear explanation of what occurred;
• the approximate date(s) and location(s) of the incident(s);
• the TAC rule or standard of the Code of Professional Conduct for interpreters or HHSC rules believed to have been violated, if known; and 
• any supporting documentation or evidence available.

Submit complaints within 120 calendar days of the incident. Any new information found after the complaint is submitted may be included in the investigation.

Receipt and Acknowledgement of Complaint

Program does the following within five business days after receiving a complaint about a Texas BEI certificate holder:

• send a notice to the complainant to confirm receipt;
• conduct an initial review of the complaint to confirm if the office has authority over the issue; and
• confirm that all required information is included.

Notification to Respondent of Complaint

Program sends a notice to the respondent within 10 business days of the initial review if a complaint falls under the program’s jurisdiction. The notice includes: 

• a summary or copy of the complaint and supporting documentation;
• a list of the alleged violations;
• copies or links to the relevant HHS rules and the Code of Professional Conduct for interpreters;
• a request for a written response to the allegations;
• the deadline for submitting a response which is within 20 calendar days from the date of notice; and
• the program office’s contact information.

The respondent is advised if disclosure of the complainant’s identity is required to ensure due process.

Fact-Finding and Investigation

The program starts a fact-finding review after receiving the respondent’s written response or after the response deadline has passed. The review helps determine if there is enough evidence that a certificate holder violated a TAC rule or standard of the Code of Professional Conduct for interpreters. 

The fact-finding review will include:

• review of the complaint and respondent’s response;
• review of supporting documentation and other evidence;
• request for more information, if needed; and
• consultation with HHSC Legal Services or the BEI Advisory Board, when necessary.

Time Frame

The fact-finding review should be completed within 60 business days from the date the complaint is received by the program. More time may be needed if the complaint is complex, witnesses are not available, or if other agencies must be involved. The program notifies the respondent within five business days after the 60^th day of the fact-finding review if more time is needed. The program may also notify the complainant, as appropriate, about the status of the review, consistent with confidentiality requirements and applicable law.

Witnesses

Program may contact identified witnesses by email, phone, or other accessible means to request a statement or information about the complaint. Anonymous witness statements may be accepted and considered as permitted by law and due process requirements.

Findings and Determination

Upon completion of fact-finding, the program will determine whether the complaint is: 

• Unsubstantiated, if there is not sufficient evidence of a violation; or
• Substantiated, based on evidence of a violation.

Program sends a notice to the complainant and respondent of the fact-finding review outcome within 15 business days of the determination.

The complaint is closed with no further action for an unsubstantiated complaint.

For a substantiated complaint, program may:

• issue a letter of reprimand;
• enter an Agreed Final Order, with the respondent also known as a voluntary agreement by the certificate holder to accept a disciplinary action; or
• propose formal disciplinary action, including , suspension, probation, or revocation, per 26 TAC Rules 100.735, 100.737  and 100.739.

Refer to 1200, Compliance and Enforcement for information about disciplinary actions.

1200 Compliance and Enforcement

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

BEI Certificate Holder Compliance

Conduct

BEI certificate holders may not:

• accept or interpret assignments requiring certification without the required certification;
• provide interpreting services in a court setting, or in any assignment requiring BEI certification, while their certification is expired, including during any recertification grace period; or
• misrepresent their certification status.

Violations may result in administrative penalties. Certificate holders or applicants who violate the confidentiality statement, engage in cheating, or otherwise compromise the integrity of the BEI tests may be denied certification or recertification. They could also have their certification suspended or revoked.

Name Change

A certificate holder must notify the DHHS BEI program by email if they have a name change. They do this within 30 days of such change. The notification must include a copy of an official document verifying the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court decree, unless an updated copy of an identification (ID) card reflecting the name change is available.

Change in Contact Information

The certificate-holder must notify program within 30 days of email address changes and update their email address details in the BEI Registry promptly. Failure to do so may delay the receipt of correspondence about certificate renewal or five-year recertification. When this happens, the certificate holder is subject to all relevant consequences related to the lack of notification.

Records Retention

The BEI program maintains all applications and applicant-submitted documentation per the record retention requirements defined by Texas Health and Human Services (HHS).

All application materials, including forms, supporting documents, and related correspondence, are preserved for three years from the date of final action on the application.

Records are securely stored and disposed of in strict adherence to applicable HHS policies and confidentiality standards.

Enforcement

Disciplinary Actions

The program may impose disciplinary action for violations of laws, rules, or policies. This includes revocation, suspension, probation, denial or administrative penalties.

Grounds for Disciplinary Action

The program reserves the right to impose disciplinary action. This includes denial, suspension, revocation, probation, and reprimand, for any of the following reasons:

• Breaking the law, including:
  • felonies;
  • certain misdemeanors involving dishonesty, fraud, violence, or moral misconduct; or
  • offenses involving theft or controlled substances.
• Sexually inappropriate behavior or comments toward a consumer or anyone involved in the interpreted situation.
• Drug or alcohol use that affects professional performance.
• Impersonating another interpreter or allowing someone else to use your certificate or renewal documents.
• Misrepresenting certification status or level, including claiming certification that was not awarded by BEI.
• Fraud, cheating, or false statements in an application, test, or certification maintenance or renewal process.
• Violating professional conduct or ethical standards, including applicable Codes of Professional Conduct or Ethics.
• Incompetent, negligent, or irresponsible interpreting, including repeated poor performance.
• Being declared mentally incompetent by a court.
• Harassing, abusing, or intimidating a consumer, board member, evaluator or program staff.
• Sharing or misusing confidential exam information, including test content or materials.
• Failing to meet annual maintenance or renewal requirements.
• Practicing while certification is suspended.
• Submitting false or altered documents for certification renewal.
• Failing to disclose a criminal conviction or providing false or misleading information about one.
• Failing to provide requested information or records needed for certification or renewal.
• Violating BEI statues, rules, policies, or disciplinary orders, including probation suspension conditions.

Administrative Penalties

Disciplinary action may include an assessment of an administrative penalty for court interpreters only, per 26 TAC Section 360.227(b).

Conditional Probation

The program may impose conditions reasonably necessary to address the basis of probation. This includes reporting requirements, practice limitations, or additional professional education.

Emergency Suspension (Non-Court Interpreter Certificates)

The program may issue an emergency suspension when credible evidence demonstrates the certificate holder‘s continued practice presents an immediate threat to public health or safety.

Notice of Proposed Adverse Action

If program proposes suspension, probation, or revocation, the Respondent will receive written notice. The notice will contain: 

• The proposed action;
• The reason for the proposed action;
• Notice of the right to appeal the program determination; and
• Instructions and deadlines for requesting a hearing.

Right to Appeal

If the applicant or certificate holder whose certificate or application was revoked or suspended, or whose eligibility is terminated, does not agree with the program’s decision, the applicant or certificate holder may request a hearing to appeal the decision of the program.

Revocation or Suspension of BEI Certified Court Interpreter Certification

The program may revoke or suspend a BEI certified court interpreter certification under this subchapter only after a hearing.

The program may reissue a court interpreter certificate that was revoked if the person: 

• resubmits an application through the BEI Registry; and
• demonstrates good cause justifying reissuance.

Copies of procedures for applying for reissuance after revocation of a BEI certified court interpreter certificate may be obtained from BEI.

Appeals

If the applicant or certificate holder who had their certificate or application revoked or suspended or eligibility terminated, does not agree with the program’s decision, they may request a hearing to appeal the decision. This must be done in writing and sent to the program no later than 90 days after the date on the disciplinary action decision notice.

A hearing must be held if the program receives a written request for a hearing within 90 days of the date on the disciplinary action decision notice.

If the applicant or certificate holder does not request a hearing within the 90-day period, they give up their right to appeal and the program’s decision becomes final.

Hearings

Hearings are conducted per the Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle A, Chapter 2001, Subchapter A, and the Texas Administrative Code, Title 26, Chapter 100, Subchapter P, Division 4, Rule 100.739.

Email the DHS BEI program within 90 days of the date of the disciplinary action notice to submit a request for a hearing.

2100 Introduction

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This chapter outlines BEI policies for the generalist interpreter certifications offered by the program.

2200 Generalist Interpreter Certification

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

The BEI Generalist Certifications include basic, advanced and master level certificates.

They also include intermediary level III and level V certificates for deaf interpreters.

2300 Eligibility Requirements for Generalist Certificates (Non-Specialty)

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Educational Requirements for Generalist Certificates

Applicants must have earned an associate degree or a minimum of 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university. They should have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Exemptions

• A Texas BEI certificate holder:
  • with an active and valid Texas BEI certificate awarded because of proceedings started before Jan. 1, 2012;
  • is exempt from the educational or degree requirements of this chapter. This exemption only applies while the Texas BEI certificate remains active and valid.

• A Texas BEI certificate holder:

  • with an active and valid Texas BEI certificate;
  • awarded because of proceedings started before Jan. 1, 2012;
  • may be exempt from the education or degree requirements of this chapter when applying for a higher‑level Texas BEI certificate.

  The certificate holder must meet all the following conditions throughout the application and testing process to stay eligible for this exemption:

• maintain an active and valid Texas BEI certificate, including compliance with all annual renewal and five‑year recertification requirements;
• have no active or pending disciplinary actions with the program; and
• meet all other eligibility, application, and testing requirements for the higher‑level Texas BEI certificate.

Testing Requirements

Applicants seeking a certification level of Basic, Advanced, or Master, also known as generalist, must apply for and pass:

Test of English Proficiency (TEP)

Before testing, applicants must have:

• met all the criteria of 1.3, Certification Eligibility and Requirements of this policy; and
• earned at least 30 credit hours from an accredited college or university, with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

BEI Performance Test

Prior to testing, applicants must have

• met all the criteria in 1.3, Certification Eligibility and Requirements of this policy;
• earned a passing score on the Test of English Proficiency,
• earned an associate degree or a minimum of 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, except as provided above.

Prerequisites

The applicant’s current certification status determines eligibility for a performance test. A certified interpreter wanting to take a higher-level Texas BEI performance test must have the following prerequisite certificate from either the BEI or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) for the corresponding Texas BEI performance test. The pre-requisite certificate must be valid and active both at the time of application and on the scheduled test day.

*Subject to availability.

Holders of RID, NIC, or BEI certification from another state authorized to administer the BEI tests must submit a verification letter of their certification. They must also meet Texas educational requirements if applying for an advanced or master performance test.

The applicant must receive approval by BEI before taking the performance test.

2400 Generalist Certification Issuance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements and pass the performance test shall be issued the BEI generalist certification for the respective level.

2500 Generalist Certification Maintenance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Certified generalist interpreters must maintain certification per BEI program requirements.

Within the five-year recertification period, generalist certificate holders must earn a total of 10.0 CEUs (100 clock hours) during the five-year certification period. The amounts and topics are stipulated below:

• 6.0 CEUs (60 clock hours) in interpreting-related topics
• 2.0 CEUs (20 clock hours) in ethics-related topics
• 2.0 CEUs (20 clock hours) in general studies

The requirements for the content are in 1160, Continuing Education Units for Interpreters (CEUs). Further guidance on BEI approved CEUs is in the BEI Rubric (PDF).

Failure to meet maintenance requirements may result in suspension or revocation of certification by BEI.

3100 Introduction

Revision 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This chapter outlines the policies and requirements for court interpreter certification through BEI.

Beginning Sept. 1, 2006, interpreters who perform interpreter services during court proceedings in the state of Texas must hold either a:

• current court interpreter certification issued by the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI); or
• current legal certificate issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID).

Requirements and Eligibility for Court Interpreter Certification

To become a BEI certified Court Interpreter, an applicant must meet all the requirements and qualifications in TAC Section 360.315.

3200 Eligibility Requirements for Court Interpreter Certification

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Certification Requirements by Applicant Group

BEI Court Interpreter Certification is available to both hearing applicants and deaf or hard of hearing applicants. The applicable requirements and testing protocols vary by applicant group. The table below provides a high-level overview.

Qualifying Certifications

Applicants must possess a BEI-approved interpreter certification demonstrating advanced proficiency in sign language interpreting.

Acceptable certifications include:

BEI Certifications

• BEI Level III
• BEI Level IV
• BEI Level V
• BEI Level III – Intermediary
• BEI Level IV – Intermediary
• BEI Level V - Intermediary
• BEI Advanced 
• BEI Master
• BEI Oral: Comprehensive

RID Certifications

Certifications issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) include:

• Certificate of Interpretation (CI)
• Certificate of Transliteration (CT)
• Certified Deaf Interpreter
• Comprehensive Skills Certificate
• Master Comprehensive Skills Certificate
• National Interpreter Certification (Advanced or Master)
• Reverse Skills Certificate

Applicants must maintain the prerequisite certification throughout the court interpreter certification process.

Court Interpreter Written Test (All Applicants)

Both hearing and deaf or hard of hearing applicants must pass the Court Interpreter written test. The written test will assess knowledge in the following areas:

• Legal terminology
• Court procedures
• Interpreter ethics
• Interpreter roles and responsibilities
• Professional standards of conduct

The Court Interpreter Written Test is administered through the Texas Judicial Branch Certification Commission (JBCC) for Texas applicants. Test results may be accepted from other state court systems. This acceptance is when the test is determined equivalent to the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) Written Examination. The program reviews the test content and format to verify equivalency before accepting and processing out-of-state test results.

Court Interpreter Performance Test (Hearing Applicants)

The performance test evaluates the applicant’s ability to interpret legal settings. Applicants must first meet program eligibility requirements and pass the written test before attempting the performance test.

Evaluation criteria include:

• Accuracy and completeness of interpretation
• Ability to interpret between Sign Language and spoken English
• Appropriate pacing and clarity
• Ability to manage complex legal discourse

The Court Interpreter Performance Test is meant for hearing applicants only.

Training (Deaf or Hard of Hearing Applicants)

The court interpreter training must focus on court procedure and interpreting for court proceedings. Court proceedings can be civil, criminal or juvenile. They may include arraignments, mediations, court-mandated arbitrations, depositions, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution.

Deaf or hard of hearing candidates must complete the following hours of training or mentoring:

• a minimum of 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which is the equivalent of 120 clock hours, of BEI-approved courses of instruction in courtroom knowledge and skills;
• a minimum of 120 hours of actual practice provided by a Certified Court Interpreter who has been approved by BEI to act as a mentor; or
• a combined minimum of 120 hours of instruction and mentoring.

Court interpreter training must be related to court proceedings described above and include at least:

• 16 clock hours (1.6 CEUs) on criminal law process;
• 16 clock hours (1.6 CEUs) on civil law process;
• 8 clock hours (0.8 CEUs) on legal terminology; and
• 8 clock hours (0.8 CEUs) on ethical practices for court interpreters.

Refer to the BEI CEU Rubric (PDF) for information on BEI-approved courses.

The following may provide training courses:

• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS);
• a military, public, or private educational facility; or
• other providers approved by DHHS.

3300 Court Certification Issuance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Hearing applicants who pass both the written and performance tests are issued BEI Court Interpreter certification.

Deaf or hard of hearing applicants who complete the required hours of training and mentoring and pass the written test are issued BEI Court Interpreter certification.

3400 Authorized Representation

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Only people holding current and valid court certification issued by the BEI program may:

• represent themselves as certified court interpreters; and
• provide interpreting services in court proceedings requiring certified interpreters.

A person without a valid and current BEI Court Interpreter Certification is prohibited from performing work requiring a certification under Government Code, Chapter 57.

3500 Court Certification Maintenance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

A certified court interpreter must maintain all prerequisite certifications and satisfy the five-year recertification requirements to maintain their certification.

Court interpreters must get 20 hours, which is equivalent to 2.0 Continuing Education Units or CEUs. This relates to court interpreting knowledge and skills that align with the content requirements described in 1160, Continuing Education Units for Interpreters. They must do this in the five-year recertification period. This includes the continuing education requirements for the prerequisite certificate.

Refer to the BEI CEU Rubric (PDF) for guidance on the criteria for CEU submissions.

Failure to meet maintenance requirements may result in suspension or revocation of certification by BEI.

4100 Introduction

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This chapter establishes the requirements and procedures for certification as a medical interpreter through BEI.

This certification makes sure interpreters providing services in health care settings have:

• specialized knowledge; 
• interpreting skills; and 
• ethical competencies necessary to facilitate accurate communication between health care providers and people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

4200 Eligibility Requirements for Medical Interpreter Certification

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

An applicant must meet all requirements and qualifications in TAC Section 360.457 before applying for the performance test.

Qualifying Certifications

Applicants must possess a BEI-approved interpreter certification demonstrating advanced proficiency in sign language interpreting.

Acceptable certifications include:

BEI Certifications

• BEI Level III
• BEI Level IV
• BEI Level V
• BEI Advanced
• BEI Master

RID Certifications

Certifications issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, including:

• Certificate of Interpretation (CI)
• Certificate of Transliteration (CT)
• Comprehensive Skills Certificate (CSC)
• Master Comprehensive Skills Certificate
• National Interpreter Certification (Advanced or Master)

Applicants must maintain the prerequisite certification throughout the medical interpreter certification process.

BEI Approved Training

Applicants must provide documented proof of completion of approved medical interpreter training.  This consists of at least 80 credit hours of medical coursework or instruction approved by the BEI program. The training content must address:

• Medical terminology
• Healthcare systems and procedures
• Interpreting techniques for medical settings
• Professional ethics in healthcare environments

Refer to the BEI CEU Rubric (PDF) for information on BEI approved courses and instruction.

4300 Medical Performance Test

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Applicants must meet program eligibility requirements before testing.  

Evaluation criteria of the performance test include:

• Accuracy and completeness of interpretation
• Appropriate use of medical terminology
• Fluency between Sign Language and spoken English
• Ability to interpret complex medical interactions and procedures
• Adherence to professional interpreting standards

Performance tests are recorded. The recordings are assessed by trained evaluators approved by the BEI program.

4400 Medical Certification Issuance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements and pass the medical performance test are issued the BEI Medical Interpreter Certification.

4500 Medical Certification Maintenance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

A certified medical interpreter must maintain all prerequisite certifications and satisfy the five-year recertification requirements to maintain their certification.

Within the five-year recertification period, medical certificate holders must get 20 hours (2.0 CEUs) related to medical-related topics. Skills must align with the content requirements in 1160, Continuing Education Units for Interpreters (CEUs). This includes the continuing education requirements for the prerequisite certificate.

Refer to the BEI CEU Rubric (PDF) for guidance on the criteria for CEU submissions.

Failure to meet maintenance requirements may result in suspension or revocation of certification by BEI.

5100 Introduction

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

This chapter outlines the polices and requirements and for Trilingual certification through BEI.

This certification makes sure interpreters possess the necessary proficiency to facilitate communication among English, Spanish, and sign language users in professional interpreting settings.

5200 Eligibility Requirements for Trilingual Certification

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

An applicant must meet all the requirements and qualifications in TAC Section 360.405 for the Trilingual Certification.

Qualifying Certifications

Applicants must possess a BEI-approved interpreter certification demonstrating advanced proficiency in sign language interpreting.

Acceptable certifications include:

BEI Certifications

• BEI Level I
• BEI Level II
• BEI Level III
• BEI Level IV
• BEI Level V
• BEI Basic
• BEI Advanced
• BEI Master

RID Certifications

Certifications issued by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, including:

• Comprehensive Skills Certificate (CSC)
• Certificate of Interpretation (CI)
• Certificate of Transliteration (CT)
• Certificate of Interpretation/Transliteration (CI/CT)
• National Interpreter Certification (NIC)
• National Interpreter Certification (Advanced or Master)

Applicants must maintain the prerequisite certification throughout the trilingual certification process.

Trilingual Written Test

Applicants must pass the Test of Spanish Proficiency (TSP). The test makes sure applicants possess sufficient Spanish language proficiency for professional interpreting.

The TSP evaluates:

• Knowledge of formal Spanish registers
• Spanish grammar and vocabulary
• Language comprehension and usage

5300 Trilingual Performance Test

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Applicants must meet program eligibility requirements before testing.

*Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf

**National Association of the Deaf-Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf National Interpreter Certification

RID, NIC, or certification holders from another state who are applying for the advanced or master trilingual performance tests must submit a copy of a verification letter of their certification for verification purposes.

Applicants must pass a trilingual performance test evaluating their interpreting ability across three languages.

Performance test evaluation criteria include:

• Accuracy of interpretation between English, Spanish, and sign language
• Fluency and clarity in language delivery
• Ability to manage complex linguistic interactions
• Professional interpreting techniques and strategies

Performance tests are recorded. The recordings are assessed by trained evaluators approved by the BEI program.

5400 Trilingual Certification Issuance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements and pass the trilingual performance test are issued BEI Trilingual Interpreter Certification.

Certification shows that the interpreter demonstrated the specialized skills required in interpreting among English, Spanish, and sign languages.

5500 Trilingual Certification Maintenance

Revision Notice 26-1; Effective Oct. 5, 2026

A certified trilingual interpreter must maintain all prerequisite certifications. They must satisfy the five-year recertification requirements to maintain their certification.

Within the five-year recertification period, certificate holders must get 30 hours (3.0 CEUs) about trilingual interpreting knowledge and skills. This must align with the content requirements described in 1160 Continuing Education Units for Interpreters (CEUs). This includes the continuing education requirements for the prerequisite certificate.

Refer to the BEI CEU Rubric (PDF) for guidance on the criteria for CEU submissions.

Failure to meet maintenance requirements may result in suspension or revocation of certification by BEI.

For technical or accessibility issues with this handbook, please email the HHS Form & Handbook Request mailbox.

For questions about the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) Handbook, email dhhs.mailbox@hhs.texas.gov.