FAQs
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FAQs
Searching by name alone is not a reliable way to verify a practitioner. Many practitioners may share the same or similar names, and some may hold similar credential types. This can make it difficult to confirm you have the correct person.
The most accurate way to verify a practitioner is by using their CPN (Certification Practitioner Number). Every certified practitioner has a unique CPN, which allows you to confirm their current certification status with confidence.
We recommend that you:
- Ask the practitioner for their CPN
- Use the NAATI “Check a Practitioner” tool to verify their credentials
Our public directory is designed to help you find and contact practitioners who have chosen to display their details. Not all practitioners appear in the directory, particularly if they have opted not to show their contact information.
To ensure you are engaging a certified practitioner, always ask for their CPN and verify it using the official tool.
The language list only shows languages where at least one NAATI-certified practitioner has chosen to appear in this directory.
If you cannot see your language, it may be because:
- There are currently no practitioners available in that language, or
- Practitioners in that language have not chosen to display their details in this directory.
We regularly update the directory as practitioners opt in.
Languages in this directory are also generally listed using standard ISO 639-3 language names. This means that some languages may appear under a different, but related, name.
For example, Swahili may be listed instead of Kiswahili.
If you cannot find your language, try searching using:
- A broader language name
- An alternative spelling
If you are still unsure view our guide on: What to do when there are no certified interpreters or translators available or contact us for help.
‘Verified but expired’ means the practitioner was previously certified by NAATI, but their certification is no longer current. NAATI certifications must be renewed every three years through a process called recertification. If they are not recertified, they expire. NAATI cannot confirm that a practitioner with an expired credential meets the current professional standards.
For translations: If a translation is completed by a NAATI-certified translator while they held an active certification, it remains valid indefinitely.
Translations do not have an expiry date. Once a document has been translated by a NAATI-certified translator, it remains valid indefinitely. However, some organisations, such as government agencies, may request a recent translation or confirmation that the content hasn’t changed, so it’s always a good idea to check their specific requirements.
Some information in practitioner profiles is optional and self-reported. NAATI allows practitioners to choose whether to share details such as qualifications, services or areas of expertise. Because of this, the information is not verified by NAATI.
If a field is not displayed, it simply means the practitioner has chosen not to share it. It does not mean they lack training or expertise in that area.
This tool allows you to check whether a translator or interpreter is currently certified by NAATI and view their certification details.
It confirms the practitioner you plan to engage is qualified, certified, and able to provide professional services. Or allows you to check if a translation you have received was completed by a NAATI-certified translator.
If no NAATI-certified practitioner is available, there may be other options depending on the language and situation.
Read our article “What to do when there are no NAATI-certified interpreters or translators available” for practical guidance and next steps.
It depends on your needs. Read our article “Choosing an individual or language service provider” for more guidance.
Domain expertise refers to a practitioner’s knowledge and experience in a specific subject area, such as legal, medical, health, education or community services.
Choosing a practitioner with relevant domain expertise can help ensure the interpreting or translation is accurate, appropriate and fit for purpose. Listing domain expertise in the NAATI online directory is optional and chosen by the practitioner, and is not verified by NAATI. If a practitioner has not listed domain expertise, it does not mean they lack experience in that area.
In some cultures, a person may only feel comfortable speaking with an interpreter of a certain gender. For example, a woman may prefer a female interpreter for sensitive health or legal matters. Providing this option helps clients feel safe and respected, and ensures communication is accurate.
Displaying gender on the online directory is optional and up to the practitioner.
