CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETER
(CDI) SERVICES

A Deaf interpreter for the conversations that need one.

A Certified Deaf Interpreter is a Deaf professional who works alongside a hearing interpreter when the communication is too complex, too high-stakes, or too linguistically specific for a hearing interpreter to carry alone. 5 Star Interpreting coordinates CDI teams across Salt Lake City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Idaho, paired with RID-certified hearing interpreters and matched to the demands of the setting.

ASL INTERPRETING
SERVICES

A CDI is a teaming role, not a delivery format. CDI support is most often paired with on-site sign language interpreting, where the physical presence of both interpreters supports the accuracy the assignment demands. CDI teaming over VRI is possible for some situations, but the same cautions that apply to VRI generally apply with even more weight here: the more complex the communication, the more presence matters.

WHEN A CDI IS THE RIGHT CALL

Some conversations carry a real risk that a single hearing interpreter, however skilled, will not fully bridge.

A CDI is the right call when:

The Deaf individual uses non-standard ASL, regional dialects, or home signs
There is limited formal language exposure or language deprivation
The individual is DeafBlind and requires tactile or close-vision communication
The setting involves trauma, mental health, or crisis communication
Legal accuracy is critical, and any misinterpretation carries consequences
The Deaf individual has a cognitive, developmental, or linguistic profile that affects how they give and receive language
The communication has already broken down with a hearing interpreter alone

In legal and medical settings, especially, the verification a CDI provides is not optional when the stakes are high. The CDI confirms that every question is understood as intended and every response is conveyed accurately, with the hearing interpreter serving as the bridge to the spoken-language participants.

HOW A CDI WORKS WITH A HEARING INTERPRETER

A CDI does not replace the hearing interpreter. The two work as a team.

The hearing interpreter listens to the spoken English and signs it. The CDI receives that and reworks it into language the Deaf individual fully understands, adapting register, dialect, pacing, and visual framing to that specific person. In the other direction, the CDI reads the Deaf individual’s communication, including cues a hearing interpreter may miss, and relays it to the hearing interpreter for voicing. The result is a chain built for accuracy rather than speed, used precisely when accuracy is what matters most. Learn more about when to use a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) in our article.

HOW WE STAFF CDI ASSIGNMENTS

Our scheduling team pairs each CDI with a hearing interpreter matched to the setting, the same way we staff every assignment: on credentials, industry experience, and contextual fit. A CDI assignment is by definition a team assignment, and we coordinate both interpreters together so they can prepare as a unit.

Because CDI assignments are often the most demanding ones we handle, lead time matters. The pool of Certified Deaf Interpreters is smaller than the hearing interpreter pool, and matching the right CDI to a specific linguistic or cultural profile takes coordination. For longer or more cognitively demanding assignments, additional interpreters may be paired so that quality is maintained throughout the session.

Coordinators are available before, during, and after the assignment for changes, last-minute issues, and follow-up scheduling. All interpreters, CDIs, and hearing interpreters alike follow the RID Code of Professional Conduct on confidentiality, accuracy, and professional discretion.

If you are unsure whether your situation calls for a CDI, tell us about the assignment, and we will help you assess it before the appointment. Getting that judgment right ahead of time is part of the service.

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETING (CDI) SERVICE AREAS

Salt Lake City and across Utah
Boise, Idaho
Chicago and throughout Illinois
Atlanta and spanning Georgia

CDI teaming is available for on-site assignments in our primary regions, and coverage outside those regions is possible for scheduled assignments with appropriate lead time.

ADA COMPLIANCE AND CDIS

The ADA requires effective communication, not a specific tool. When a hearing interpreter alone cannot achieve effective communication, because of language deprivation, a DeafBlind communication need, a crisis context, or any of the situations above, a Certified Deaf Interpreter may be the appropriate auxiliary aid.

The Deaf individual has the right to determine what communication method is effective for them, and the responsibility to provide it rests with the covered entity. Our post on ADA compliance for Deaf communication access covers the legal framework in more depth.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Certified Deaf Interpreter?

A Certified Deaf Interpreter is a Deaf professional trained and certified to interpret, who works as part of a team with a hearing interpreter. The CDI brings native fluency and lived Deaf experience to communication that a hearing interpreter cannot fully bridge alone, adapting language to the specific Deaf individual’s dialect, register, and communication style.

When do I need a CDI instead of a standard interpreter?

A CDI is recommended when the Deaf individual uses non-standard signing, has had limited formal language exposure, is DeafBlind, or when the conversation involves mental health, legal risk, or complex medical decisions. A standard hearing interpreter handles most assignments well; a CDI is for the situations where being alone is not enough. If you are unsure, describe the assignment, and we will help you decide.

Does a CDI replace the hearing interpreter?

No. A CDI works alongside a hearing interpreter as a team. The hearing interpreter bridges spoken English, and the CDI bridges to and from the Deaf individual. Both are needed for the team to function.

Is a CDI required under the ADA?

The ADA requires effective communication, not a specific tool. In situations where a hearing interpreter alone cannot achieve that, a CDI may be the appropriate way to meet the obligation. The standard is effectiveness, not the presence of any single interpreter.

How far in advance should I book a CDI?

As early as possible. The pool of Certified Deaf Interpreters is smaller than the hearing interpreter pool, and matching the right CDI to a specific linguistic or cultural profile takes coordination. Same-day and urgent requests are accommodated when possible, but lead time meaningfully improves the match.

Can a CDI work over VRI?

Sometimes, for less complex situations. But because CDI assignments are by nature the more complex ones, on-site is usually the better fit. The more the communication depends on nuance, presence, and visual cues, the more on-site matters.

1,000+ SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

    
 
 
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   Jessica Gurr 
 
 
 
  Prompt, and great service
  
 
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   Benjamin Ballard 
 
 
 
  As both an interpreter and the husband of a Deaf spouse, 5 Star is the best option by far. They are knowledgeable, compassionate, and extremely easy to work with.
  
 
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   Charity Harding 
 
 
 
  Best ASL interpreting services around!
  
 
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   Laura Benge 
 
 
 
  5 Star Interpreting has been the primary provider of American Sign Language - English interpretation for The Sundance Film Festival for the past two years. Their services have been absolutely top notch. The coordination of an exhibition to this scale was eased knowing that 5 Star would take the care to understand our event spaces, screenings, content, clients, etc. to consider the right interpreter for the job. We're proud to work with a Utah local Deaf/CODA owned business that utilizes both the consumer and interpreter perspective throughout all aspects of their operations. Extra big shoutout/referral for Nathan Suitter, who's skill and professionalism has made him our interpreter of choice. Smiles.
  
 
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   Hillary LaFrance 
 
 
 
  5 star is the best!
  
 
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   Camille Jenkins 
 
 
 
  Our agency had a client who requested an ASL interpreter for a meeting so I reached out to 5 Star Interpreting. They were very quick to respond, easy to schedule with and their prices are great. The interpreter they sent was professional and friendly and it was a great experience. We will be using them again.
  
 
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   Chelsea Claus 
 
 
 
  Cody was amazing! He really went above & beyond in helping our college navigate this new & exciting journey. Thank you, Cody! Your passion for helping people truly shines through!
  
 
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   T Barber 
 
 
 
  5 Star has assisted the small business I work for and they have been absolutely amazing!  They are so easy to work with, always attentive to our needs and reliable.  They are reasonably priced for such a great service.  They help our patients feel comfortable and help us provide the best care possible!  I would recommend without hesitation!
  
 
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   Susannah Scheller 
 
 
 
  I work in Texas and had to plan to get ASL interpreters on-site for a Utah-based event this year, although I've never worked with ASL interpreters before. Cody and his team at 5 Star were an absolute pleasure to work with. Highly responsive, quick to help out and explain the different nuances of ASL to a non-signer (without making me feel like an idiot), and extremely professional and helpful. They thought of everything: from their travel, to the interpreter's on-site meals, to their attire, and even convenience of payment after the event. I would highly recommend them if you're looking for a team that will work seamlessly with your event and provide a high-quality interpreting experience with a low-hassle and clearly communicated set-up.
  
 
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   Heather Jensen 
 
 
 
  This agency truly values their interpreters. 5 Star has a wonderful group of people behind the scenes!
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 38 reviews

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETER
(CDI) SERVICES

ASL INTERPRETING
SERVICES

ON-SITE SIGN INTERPRETING

VIDEO REMOTE INTERPRETING (VRI)

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETERS (CDI)

ADDITIONAL SERVICES & AUXILIARY AIDS

WHEN A CDI IS THE RIGHT CALL

HOW A CDI WORKS WITH A HEARING INTERPRETER

HOW WE STAFF CDI ASSIGNMENTS

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETING (CDI) SERVICE AREAS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1,000+ SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETER (CDI) SERVICES

ASL INTERPRETING SERVICES

ON-SITE SIGN INTERPRETING

VIDEO REMOTE INTERPRETING (VRI)

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETERS (CDI)

ADDITIONAL SERVICES & AUXILIARY AIDS

WHEN A CDI IS THE RIGHT CALL

HOW A CDI WORKS WITH A HEARING INTERPRETER

HOW WE STAFF CDI ASSIGNMENTS

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETING (CDI) SERVICE AREAS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1,000+ SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

CERTIFIED DEAF INTERPRETER
(CDI) SERVICES

ASL INTERPRETING
SERVICES