What is the process of becoming a professional translator?

The following Translator Q & A is part of our Translator FAQ Series.


Question: What is the process of becoming a professional translator?

Answer: The process is relatively simple at a high level, here it is:

  1. Become bilingual - master another language to the point where you can write, translate into and out of and speak the second language as it it was your own.
  2. Practice translating passages daily and start working for clients for free or within internship positions to build your experience.
  3. Complete the Certified Translation Professional (CTP) program to become a certified translator in the industry
  4. Complete additional paid translation work and decide whether to work for a translation agency or work within a freelance capacity for yourself
  5. Constantly learn more about the cultures behind your target languages so that you can combine this with your work experience to become an excellent translator

Learn more:
  1. What important ethics should be considered within translation projects?
  2. Where can I find more translation internships?
  3. What are the benefits of being a translator?
  4. What is the difference between a interpreter and translator?
  5. How can I become a successful translator?
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