Bilingual Interpreting Examination (BIE) Registration & Important Information
Registration for the Bilingual Interpreting Examination will be open July 1–July 24, 2026. No additional registrations will be accepted after the deadline, and no further opportunities will be available for 2026. All registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
New and Returning Candidates
The 12 Certified Spoken Languages in California
If your preferred language is not listed among California’s certified languages, please refer to the Candidate Information Guide to learn how to become a Registered Court Interpreter, or click Register for the OPE.
You may be eligible to register if you meet both of the following requirements:
- You have passed the Written Examination, and your score is still within the valid eligibility period.
- At least six (6) months have passed since your last attempt of the Bilingual Interpreting Examination (BIE) or any NCSC oral interpreting examination, regardless of the state in which it was taken, including California.
To become a California certified court interpreter, candidates must first pass the Written Examination before taking the Bilingual Interpreting Examination (BIE).
Steps for Becoming a Certified Court Interpreter in California
Cost of the exam:
$380
2026 Testing Schedule
Location: Regus Offices, 580 California Street, Financial District, San Francisco, CA 94104
Location: Regus Offices, 655 N Central Ave, 17th Floor, Glendale, CA 91203
Location: Regus Offices, 6 Centerpointe Dr #700, La Palma, CA 90623
The registration process is simple:
Complete the registration form below
Select your preferred city and testing date
Submit your payment through our online platform to confirm your registration
Ready to Register?
Please note the following:
- Candidates must wait a minimum of six (6) months between oral examination attempts nationwide, including attempts taken in California.
- Candidates must have a valid Written Examination score at the time of registration for the Bilingual Interpreting Examination (BIE).
Not sure if you're eligible? Please contact us before submitting your registration—we're happy to assist!
E-mail: exams@delamorainstitute.com
Phone: 407-287-5313
Important Note:
All registration fees are non-refundable.
If you have taken an oral examination anywhere in the country within the last six (6) months, your registration will be deemed invalid and the examination fee will not be refunded. If you are unsure of your eligibility, please contact us before registering: exams@delamorainstitute.com
Candidates must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their scheduled examination time. Late arrivals will not be admitted and will be required to re-register. Fees are non-refundable.
In the event of an emergency on the day of your examination, please contact us as soon as possible. Official documentation may be required to evaluate eligibility for rescheduling.
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Yes. Exam results obtained through the prior testing vendor remain valid, provided they fall within the established validity period outlined in program policy.
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No. The transition to a new vendor does not extend or reset the validity period of previously earned exam scores. Existing validity timelines remain in effect as originally established.
Candidates are encouraged to review their individual score expiration dates and ensure they complete the next required step in their certification pathway within the applicable timeframe.
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Candidates should arrive early and be prepared to present valid identification for check-in. Testing staff will provide instructions prior to the start of the examination, including procedures, timing, and conduct requirements. Candidates should expect a structured, secure testing environment and must follow all testing protocols throughout the session.
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No. Eligible candidates may take the Bilingual Interpreting Examination (BIE) up to two times within a 12-month period, with a required six-month waiting period between attempts. This applies to all BIE attempts, including those taken in California and in other states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on test day?
Watch this short video to learn what to expect on test day so you can feel prepared, confident, and ready.
Ready to Prepare?
Becoming a Certified Court Interpeter
BIE Study Tools
Candidate Information Guide