Certified On-Site ASL Interpreters for Every Setting
Book certified on-site ASL interpreters for medical appointments, legal proceedings, workplace meetings, school events, and personal appointments in Austin, across Texas, and nationwide.
HIPAA COMPLIANT
ADA COMPLIANT
100% CERTIFIED
SECTION 504
SAME-DAY AVAILABLE
THE IN PERSON ADVANTAGE
Face to Face Communication Without Barriers
For complex conversations, sensitive settings, and multi-person exchanges, an in-person ASL interpreter provides a level of access that remote options simply can’t replicate.
Full Visual Access
An in-person interpreter catches every facial expression, body posture, and environmental cue . Details that are easy to miss on a small screen.
No Technology Barriers
In-person ASL interpreting removes the variables: no internet drops, camera angles, or platform glitches that can interrupt critical communication.
Natural Group Dynamics
Side conversations, multi-speaker dynamics, and spontaneous exchanges in meetings, IEPs, and court proceedings flow more naturally with an interpreter on-site.
Right for High Stakes Settings
Medical diagnoses, legal proceedings, mental health appointments, and life events deserve the care and presence that only in-person interpreting provides.
WHAT WE COVER
On-Site ASL Interpreting for Every Setting
We match certified ASL interpreters to your specific setting, subject matter, and communication needs, so every appointment runs smoothly.
Medical & Healthcare
Doctor visits, hospital stays, surgical consultations, therapy appointments, mental health sessions, and emergency care, with interpreters trained in HIPAA-compliant communication.
Legal and Court
Courtroom hearings, depositions, attorney-client meetings, law enforcement interviews, and mediation sessions. We provide certified legal sign language interpreters who understand the weight of accuracy in legal settings.
Business & Workplace
Job interviews, HR meetings, performance reviews, employee training, and onboarding. Workplace ASL interpreting helps employers meet ADA obligations and create a more inclusive environment.
Conference & Events
Keynote presentations, panel discussions, association conferences, corporate events, and award ceremonies. We coordinate team interpreting for longer events when needed.
Personal & Life Events
Weddings, religious services, real estate closings, financial planning meetings, and family gatherings. These are the moments that matter, and we help make sure everyone is included.
Education
Parent teacher conferences, IEP and ARD meetings, academic advising sessions, graduation ceremonies, and campus events. We support schools and colleges across Central Texas with education interpreting services.
Also available: Government services, mental health counseling, emergency response, entertainment & media. Ask about your specific need →
HOW IT WORKS
Schedule an ASL Interpreter in 3 Steps
Simple scheduling, start to finish.
1
Submit Your Request
New Clients fill out our Rates & Policies to get started. Existing customers submit an Interpreter Request Form with your request details.
2
We Match & Confirm
Our team selects the right interpreter based on your setting, subject matter, and any Deaf consumer preferences. You’ll receive confirmation with all the details you need.
3
Meet Your Interpreter
Your interpreter arrives prepared, on time, and briefed on your assignment. From there, our job is to make communication seamless for everyone in the room.
Communication Access Changes Everything
Communication Gaps Create Risk
Critical information may be misunderstood or missed entirely
Deaf participants are often left out of key decisions
Potential ADA compliance violations and legal exposure
Trust erodes when people feel their access needs aren’t taken seriously
Everyone Participates Fully
Accurate, culturally-informed interpretation in real time
Deaf individuals can fully engage, ask questions, and advocate for themselves
ADA-compliant service with documentation available upon request
Better outcomes, stronger relationships, and an inclusive reputation
Certified ASL Interpreters. Rooted in the Austin Deaf Community Since 2010.
3 Bridges isn’t a booking platform. We’re an Austin-based ASL interpreting agency that has been actively involved in the Texas Deaf community since 2010. We know our interpreters, we understand Deaf culture, and we’re accountable to the community we serve.
Credentialed, Vetted Interpreters
RID and BEI credentials, matched to your setting. Certification matters, and so does fit.
Reliable Scheduling & Coordination
Every appointment confirmed. If anything changes, you hear from us. No surprises.
One Team, Start to Finish
Request to billing, one team handles everything. No forwarded calls or chasing contact
Rooted in the Deaf Community
Multi-generational ties to the Texas Deaf community. This work is personal to us.
Understanding ADA Communication Access
The ADA requires businesses, healthcare providers, employers, and government agencies to provide qualified ASL interpreters at no cost to the Deaf individual.
01
Who Is Required to Provide Access?
02
What Does "Effective Communication" Mean?
03
Who Pays for the Interpreter?
Under Title II and Title III of the ADA, state and local government agencies, hospitals, private employers, schools, hotels, and businesses open to the public are all required to provide effective communication access. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act extends these protections to federally funded programs.
Under 28 CFR Sections 35.160 and 36.303, covered entities must provide auxiliary aids and services, including qualified interpreters, when necessary to ensure effective communication. The ADA defines a “qualified interpreter” as someone who can interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially.
The ADA explicitly prohibits passing the cost of an interpreter onto the Deaf individual. Charging a surcharge for a required accommodation is a violation of federal law under both Title II and Title III. The only exception is an “undue burden” — a very high legal bar that rarely applies. Read the full guidance at ADA.gov.
Not sure whether your situation requires an interpreter? We’re happy to help you figure it out. No pressure, no obligation.
COMMON ASL INTERPRETING QUESTIONS
ASL Interpreting FAQs
How do I request an ASL interpreter from 3 Bridges?
Submit your request through the 3 Bridges ASL Interpreter Request Form on our website. Include the date, time, location, type of assignment, expected duration, and any specific requirements or preferences.
Once we receive your request, we’ll process it and send a confirmation email with all details. The confirmation email includes a cancellation link if you need to make changes. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, at least one to two weeks for routine appointments and four to six weeks for conferences or specialized settings.
What certifications do your ASL interpreters have?
All 3 Bridges interpreters hold national or state certification through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI). These certifications require passing rigorous exams covering ASL fluency, interpreting skills, ethics, and Deaf culture.
For legal and court settings, we provide interpreters with specialized BEI Court Certification as required by Texas law. Our interpreters maintain their certifications through ongoing professional development, self-study, mentorship, and active participation in the Deaf community.
How far in advance should I book an ASL interpreter?
Book as far in advance as possible. We recommend at least one to two weeks notice for routine appointments and four to six weeks for conferences, large events, or specialized settings (legal, medical specialty, mental health). Interpreters are in high demand, and scheduling can become challenging when requests exceed available supply.
However, we understand that urgent needs arise. We accept same day and urgent requests with a $30 surcharge for requests made with less than 24 hours notice. Contact us immediately if you have an urgent need and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
What is the cancellation policy for interpreter services?
Cancellations made with more than 24 hours notice incur no charge. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice are charged for the full scheduled time or the two hour minimum, whichever is greater. This policy exists because interpreters reserve their time for your appointment and may have turned down other work.
Cancellations must be made online through the 3 Bridges cancellation page or by clicking the “Cancel Interpreter” link in your confirmation email. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.
Why do some assignments require two interpreters?
Interpreting is cognitively and physically demanding work. Research shows interpreter accuracy declines significantly after 20 to 30 minutes of continuous interpreting. Additionally, sign language interpreters are prone to repetitive motion injuries from the physical demands of signing.
To maintain accuracy and prevent injuries, assignments longer than one to 1.5 hours typically require two interpreters working in 15 to 20 minute shifts. Team interpreting is also standard for legal proceedings, medical consultations, mental health appointments, and conferences regardless of duration due to the complexity and high stakes of these settings. The determination for team interpreting is made at the time of booking.
Can I request a specific interpreter?
Yes, you can request specific ASL interpreters when scheduling services. We understand that individuals may have preferences based on past experiences, comfort level, or personal connections. When making a request, please provide the name of the interpreter you would like to work with.
While we strive to accommodate requests for specific interpreters whenever possible, availability may vary depending on scheduling and other factors. If your preferred interpreter is unavailable, we will work with you to identify an alternative interpreter who meets your needs and preferences.
How do I use an interpreter as a hearing person?
Positioning: Position yourself where the Deaf individual has a clear view of both you and the interpreter. Maintain eye contact with the Deaf person while the interpreter is signing.
Communication: Speak directly to the Deaf individual, not to the interpreter. Say “How are you feeling today?” rather than “Ask her how she’s feeling.” Speak at a normal pace and volume.
Preparation: Provide materials in advance (agendas, documents, specialized vocabulary) to help interpreters prepare and deliver more accurate interpretation.
Clarifications: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the communication, don’t hesitate to ask the interpreter for assistance.
What types of sign language can your interpreters use?
Our interpreters primarily work in American Sign Language (ASL), which is the predominant sign language used by Deaf communities in the United States. Some interpreters are also skilled in Signed English, Pidgin Signed English (PSE), and other communication modalities.
For Deaf individuals who use foreign sign languages or have unique communication needs, we can often arrange for Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) or interpreters with specific language skills. Let us know your needs when booking so we can match you with the appropriate interpreter.
Do you provide emergency or after-hours interpreter services?
Yes, we understand that communication needs don’t always occur during regular business hours. We accept urgent and same day requests and will do our best to accommodate emergency situations. A $30 surcharge applies for same day and urgent requests.
For after-hours emergencies, VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) may be available more quickly than onsite interpreters. Contact us as soon as you become aware of an urgent need and we will work to find a solution.
Why is it important to provide preparation materials to interpreters?
Providing preparation materials significantly improves interpretation quality. Materials such as agendas, presentations, technical terminology, acronyms, and speaker names help interpreters familiarize themselves with content before the assignment.
Interpreters who can prepare in advance deliver more accurate, fluent interpretation and can research specialized vocabulary they may encounter. We recommend sending materials 3-5 days before your assignment whenever possible. The more preparation materials you provide, the higher quality interpretation your Deaf participants will receive.
What should I do to prepare for an onsite interpreter?
To prepare for an onsite interpreter:
- Send any preparation materials (agendas, slides, vocabulary) in advance
- Arrange seating so the Deaf individual can see both the interpreter and the speaker
- Ensure good lighting on the interpreter (no backlighting)
- Brief the interpreter on the setting and any sensitive topics
- Plan for breaks during long assignments
- Have water available for the interpreter
If you have questions about logistics, contact us before the assignment and we’ll help you prepare.
Will the interpreter sign everything I say?
Yes, interpreters are ethically bound to interpret everything that is said, including side conversations, background comments, and environmental sounds that may be relevant. This ensures the Deaf individual has the same access to information as hearing participants.
If you need to have a private conversation that should not be interpreted, step away from the interpreted setting. Similarly, interpreters will voice everything the Deaf individual signs. The interpreter’s role is to facilitate complete, accurate, and impartial communication between all parties.
Need More Help?
Explore Our Full FAQ
Our full FAQ page covers interpreting, billing, scheduling, legal services, and more.
Ready to Schedule an ASL Interpreter?
Contact us today to discuss your ASL Interpreting needs New customers start by completing our Rates & Policies form to get scheduled.