What’s the Difference Between CDI and ASL Interpreters—and When Do You Need Each?

When providing accessible services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, not all interpreting is the same. One of the most common points of confusion? Understanding the difference between American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDI).

At Jeenie, we provide both ASL and CDI interpreting services—because accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s break down the differences so you can choose the right support for your situation.

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ASL Interpreters: The Most Common Form of Support

American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are hearing individuals fluent in both English and ASL. They listen to spoken English and interpret it into ASL for Deaf clients—and vice versa.

When to use an ASL interpreter:

  • The Deaf individual is fluent in ASL.
  • The communication topic is straightforward (e.g., scheduling an appointment, a short meeting, customer service).
  • The setting involves direct two-way communication between a hearing provider and a Deaf individual.

Man with a hearing aid using sign language in a video call, promoting accessibility and inclusion.Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs): A Deeper Layer of Support

Certified Deaf Interpreters are Deaf themselves—and that’s exactly what makes their role so important. Because they share the lived experience of being Deaf, CDIs are uniquely equipped to understand and communicate with Deaf individuals who use non-standard ASL, regional signs, or who have limited formal language exposure.

CDIs are trained and nationally certified to work as part of a team with a hearing ASL interpreter. This is sometimes called a “relay” or “daisy chain” interpreting model.

 

Here’s how it works:

  1. The hearing ASL interpreter listens to the spoken English and interprets it into standard ASL.
  2. The CDI takes that standard ASL and adapts it into a form that matches the communication needs of the Deaf individual—this could be more visual, gestural, tactile (for DeafBlind individuals), or regionally specific.
  3. The Deaf person responds, and the CDI interprets that response back into ASL, which the hearing interpreter then relays in spoken English to the hearing client.

This layered approach ensures accurate, culturally respectful communication—especially in high-stakes, sensitive, or complex interactions.

 

When to use a CDI (alongside an ASL interpreter):

  • The Deaf individual has limited or non-standard ASL skills
  • The person is DeafBlind or has cognitive disabilities Note: DeafBlind clients should have in-person CDI services (for both tactile and field of vision accommodations)
  • The topic is emotionally charged, technical, legal, or medical
  • Communication attempts with a hearing ASL interpreter alone aren’t effective

Scenario

Best Fit
Routine appointment with a fluent ASL user
 ASL Interpreter
Mental health or legal appointment with a Deaf individual who has non-standard ASL CDI + ASL Interpreter
Serving a DeafBlind individual CDI (with appropriate accommodations) (in-person) + ASL Interpreter
Emergency setting with unclear communication needs Start with ASL, escalate to CDI if clarity is limited

 

 

Sign language interpreter wearing a headset, emphasizing accessibility with RID and NAD logos displayed.Jeenie Offers Both ASL and CDI Interpreters

No matter how simple or complex your communication needs are, Jeenie has you covered. We offer:

  • On-demand access to qualified ASL interpreters
  • Scheduled sessions with CDIs and interpreter teams
  • Expert support to help you choose the right service

Not sure what you need? Our team can guide you based on your setting, audience, and goals.

 

Communication matters.
Let’s get it right.

Ready to connect with a qualified sign language interpreter?
Contact Jeenie today to book a demo or log into your account and book a session.