Looking for more information about ATA Certification?
Watch this video for answers to the most frequently asked questions about the exam, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Certification Exam FAQs
Can I use reference books during the exam?
Yes. All printed resources are allowed, but only specific online resources are permitted. See the full list of permitted online resources.
While exams avoid highly specialized terminology, they do include terminology challenges that can be met with a good general dictionary.
Do I need a computer?
Yes. For the in-person exam, you must bring your laptop. For the online exam, you must have a computer with internet access and a webcam. See all software and hardware requirements.
Can I use a tablet or smartphone?
For the in-person exam, no. Exceptions may be made for individuals with disabilities. Contact ATA for pre-approval. For the online exam, you must have a tablet or smartphone with a camera for exam security. See all software and hardware requirements.
Can I use the internet?
Yes. For the in-person exam, ATA provides internet access. For the online exam, you must have your own internet access. See all software and hardware requirements.
Do I need to use a calculator to convert measures, distances, currencies, etc.?
No. You are not expected to make mathematical conversions. You will not be penalized if you choose to do the conversions, but incorrect conversions will be marked as errors and result in a lower score.
What else?
Because exam passages may be used again, candidates are bound by a confidentiality agreement not to discuss or reveal the contents of the examination. Violation of this agreement may be grounds for loss of certification.
Practice Test FAQs
Do I have to take a practice test before I register for the exam?
No. The practice test is strongly recommended, but entirely optional.
When will I get my practice test?
If ordered online, you will receive instructions for downloading your practice test immediately in your confirmation email. Please fully read your confirmation email.
How long does it take the practice test to be graded?
You must allow 6-8 weeks for your practice test to be graded.
May I take more than one practice test?
Yes, but you must select a different test each time. You cannot take the same test twice.
Do I have to be an ATA member to take a practice test?
No.
Will the grader know who I am?
No.
If I pass the practice test, will I pass the exam?
There is no guarantee that you will pass the exam.
If I fail the practice test, will I fail the exam?
The chances are high that you will fail the exam.
What do I do if I fail the practice test?
Look for ways to gain more translation experience and improve proficiency skills. ATA provides strategies, articles, and advice from successful exam candidates and graders. Read more
Why do people fail the practice test?
Important causes of failure are major omissions, major mistranslations where the meaning of the original is lost, or an accumulation of target-language writing errors. Tests taken from the candidate’s mother tongue into a second language account for a high percentage of failures.
Continuing Education FAQs
I am certified in more than one language combination. Do I have to complete 20 CEPs for each?
No. Only 20 CEPs are required, regardless of the number of certifications.
Can I earn CEPs before I am notified that I passed the certification exam?
No. Your reporting period does not begin until you have received notice that you are certified.
Do I have to earn CEPs to keep my voting membership privileges?
No. If you do not meet the continuing education requirement, you will lose your certification but retain your voting member status.
How do I know when I need to report my CEPs?
A notice six months before you need to report your CEPs. ATA will also send you an email one month before you need to report.
Can I report CEPs and submit the required documentation as I gather them?
No. You are required to keep a record of your CEPs and documentation until it is time to report your total CEPs.