Proof of professional suitability for translating or interpreting for judicial, official and notarial purposes is an essential requirement for all persons who intend to apply for a public appointment and general swearing-in.

Proof of professional aptitude can be provided

• by completing a course of study as an interpreter or translator or as a graduate language mediator at a German university
• through a training qualification obtained abroad and recognized as equivalent or
• by passing a non-university state examination.

Admission to the examination requires at least a secondary school leaving certificate and several years of training as an interpreter or translator in the language to be examined or several years of relevant professional experience.

Those who pass the examination are entitled to use the professional title "State-certified interpreter" or "State-certified translator".

A certificate is issued for passing the examination, which serves as proof of professional aptitude to the body responsible for public appointment and general swearing-in.