Are you interested in working as a medical interpreter in Oregon? Whether you’re just starting out or need to renew your qualification, there’s good news: as of July 2025, scholarships are available to help you meet the state’s training requirements.
In this post, we’ll walk you through:
- The requirements to become a certified healthcare interpreter in Oregon
- How to meet each requirement
- Where to apply
- How to access scholarships
- What to do to stay in compliance long-term
Do “Medical Interpreter” and “Healthcare Interpreter” Mean the Same Thing?
Yes. These terms are used interchangeably in Oregon and across the U.S. They both refer to the same profession: interpreters who facilitate communication in medical and healthcare settings between providers and patients with limited English proficiency.
What Are the Requirements to Work as a Healthcare Interpreter in Oregon?
While national certification often requires 40 hours of training, Oregon has its own standards. To qualify for the Oregon Health Care Interpreter Registry, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Not be on the Medicaid Exclusion List
- Complete at least 60 hours of OHA-approved interpreter training
- Demonstrate language proficiency in English
- Demonstrate language proficiency in your non-English language
Step-by-Step: How to Meet the Requirements
✅ Age Verification
You must be 18 or older.
Submit: A copy of your state ID, driver’s license, or passport.
✅ Medicaid Exclusion List Check
You must not appear on the OIG Medicaid Exclusion List.
Submit: A printout showing negative search results.
Search here: https://exclusions.oig.hhs.gov/
✅ Complete a 60-Hour Healthcare Interpreter Training Program
Unlike the national standard of 40 hours, Oregon requires 60 hours of formal training.
Good news: Scholarships are available!
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has awarded funding to Medical Interpreting Training School (MITS) to cover tuition for this required course.
Learn more & apply here:
? https://foremily26.tangiblelaunchpad.com
Submit: Your Certificate of Completion with your application.
✅ Prove English Language Proficiency
You can meet this requirement in one of the following ways:
- Submit a high school diploma, GED, college degree, or transcripts (in English).
- OR take a language proficiency test and earn an Advanced-Mid level score.
We recommend using Language Testing International (LTI) and choosing the OPIc (Oral Proficiency Interview by computer) as the most affordable option.
? https://www.languagetesting.com/certifications-tests/test-information
Other accepted tests include TOEFL and similar standardized exams.
? Full list of accepted tests
✅ Prove Proficiency in Your Non-English Language
You can meet this requirement by:
- Submitting a high school diploma, degree, or transcripts from a school in your non-English language (must be translated into English).
- OR taking a language proficiency test with an Advanced-Mid level score through LTI:
? https://www.languagetesting.com/certifications-tests/test-information
Submitting Your Application
Once you’ve gathered all your documents:
? Download and complete the application:
? Submit via email:
? Or mail to:
Health Care Interpreter Program
Office of Equity and Inclusion
421 SW Oak St., Suite 750
Portland, Oregon 97204
Phone: (971) 673-3378
What Happens After You Apply?
If your application is approved, you’ll be listed on Oregon’s official interpreter registry, and you’ll be authorized to work as a healthcare interpreter in the state.
Maintaining Your Qualification
To keep your registration active, you must:
- Renew your qualification every 4 years
- Submit your renewal 60 days before your qualification expires
- Provide proof of 24 hours of OHA-approved continuing education
Important:
If you don’t renew within 1 year of expiration, you will have to start over as a new applicant.
Scholarships for Continuing Education
The Oregon Health Authority has also awarded funding to MITS to provide scholarships for continuing education.
? Learn more about CEU scholarships here
Need Help or Have Questions?
Contact MITS directly:
? (818) 465-8425
? Visit: https://foremily26.tangiblelaunchpad.com
Or contact the Oregon HCI program:
? (971) 673-3378