The sworn translator examination versus the reality of professional practice: a critical voice in connection with the verification of sworn translator candidates’ competences

Abstract

The paper attempts to critically evaluate the sworn translator examination in the light of the reality of professional practice. The analysis will cover the following components: assessment criteria, including the relatively low rating of the information transfer criterion and lack of the critical (fatal) error criterion, prohibition to use reference materials (encyclopaedic dictionaries, legislation) and a limited possibility to use dictionaries, lack of access to the Internet, and the need to hand-write the examination. These elements will be correlated with the EMT model of translation competencies and the realities of professional practice. The paper proposes eight postulates which can improve the translation part of the sworn translator examination by adjusting it to a greater degree to skills and competences required of sworn translators on the job. Finally, it is suggested to separate translation from interpreting certifications and to introduce specialisations.