Licenced translator

by Robert White

What is a licenced translator? 

A translator is a person qualified to translate any document into the customer’s desired language so that reader can easily understand the content and recognise the key messages within the original document. Strong writing skills are particularly important for specialised translations of documents for organisations such as hospitals, agencies or businesses to ensure the translated document is articulate and error-free, maintaining its professionalism and accuracy. Every industry has a need for licenced translators. A professional translator must have a diploma in translation of foreign languages, along with the skills to convert any written document to another language.

How to become a licenced translator? 

To become a licenced translator, you should join a linguistic association with official recognition. If you are planning to work as a freelancer, accredited membership with one of these professional organizations will provide you with officially recognised qualification. In the UK, there are multiple standard linguistic associations that offer a range of translation qualifications. For example, the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) offers the Master in Translation, while other linguistic associations are the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), and The Society of Author (SOA). These associations will provide you with the benchmark of being a professional licenced translator once you have earned a relevant qualification from them or undergone a series of evaluation procedures.

What is the Requirement for a licensed translator? 

The key qualification for a translator is to be confident in two languages You must be proficient in both the written and spoken form of each language so readers can understand the translated document easily. If you are not already fluent in a second language, you will need to attain a degree in a second language, and you must also have a bachelor’s degree. A foreign language degree will be particularly beneficial for your career. If you wish to work on translations of more than two languages, you will need a Master’s degree or a Ph.D. in translation. An additional career requirement is to have experience in working as a translator. You can complete internships or volunteer as a translator in order to gain professional experience in the field. Once you have built up your experience, you will boost your chances of becoming successful as a translator. It is recommended that you consistently practice speaking and writing the second language to maintain your proficiency so you can confidently understand and translate any document. This practice will also help you to attain the expertise required for the job. Kings of Translation provides certified translation services to their customers based in the UK and internationally. We will ensure that you follow all the legal guidelines outlined by a variety of government bodies, including educational organisations, consulates, academic institutions, UK NARIC, UK Passport Office, Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Home Office, Courts of Law and a number of other official institutions.


Becoming a licenced translator is not a difficult process. You must follow a few steps to attain the relevant qualifications, including a foreign language certificate, a Bachelor’s degree and some work experience. Kings of Translation provides the services and certification at reasonable prices. Another way to become a licenced translator is to join an accredited linguistic association. Having membership of one of these associations will enhance your credibility while making you part of a professional network of fellow translators.

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