What do you have to do to become a translater?

Answer 1

This is an interesting question... In the 70's I help the United Nations (UN) test people interested in translation positions within the UN. To be actually certified as an official translator was very involved. The applicant needed to be fluent and fully knowledgeable in spoken and written language of choice. The test involved a sealed "story" (usually 3-4 typed pages, that the applicant has never seen, and one of several versions) the applicant was given: note paper, pens and the story to read, then the applicant would rewrite in the translation language. When completed the applicant would be recorded reading the story, out loud, first in one language and then the translated language. The original typed story, the translated version, the recording in the original language and the recording in the translated language were all sealed and sent to be evaluated by experts in both languages. Note: All the tests were timed and no aids were allowed and done in ink. Note paper and pens were supplied and all items were accounted for and returned with the note papers then destroyed, in the presence of the examiner and applicant.