Facts verified Oct 28, 2026 against American Translators Association. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Facts verified Oct 28, 2026 against American Translators Association. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 3 passages of 225–275 words; translate 2 | American Translators Association |
| Time limit | 3 hours, open-book, proctored | American Translators Association |
| Exam fee | $525 per exam | American Translators Association |
| Retake policy | Can retake, but not in the same calendar year | American Translators Association |
| Validity | Valid while ATA membership and CE requirements are maintained | American Translators Association |
| Delivery | Online on demand (worldwide) or in person in the U.S. | American Translators Association |
| Eligibility | ATA members only | American Translators Association |
| Score release | Up to 16 weeks to grade (pass/fail only) | American Translators Association |
| Next exam date (In-person exam) | October 28, 2026, 9:00 am–12:00 pm PDT, Hyatt Regency San Francisco | American Translators Association |
Facts verified Oct 28, 2026 against American Translators Association. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Interactive Translation resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
Prepare for the Translation exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Translation credential is recognized by employers and industry professionals | Preparation requires significant time and study commitment |
| Higher earning potential compared to non-credentialed peers | Associated costs for exams, materials, and renewal fees |
| Expanded career opportunities and professional advancement | Continuing education needed to maintain credentials |
| Structured learning path builds comprehensive knowledge | Competition for advanced positions can be challenging |
| Professional development that stays current with industry standards | Requirements and standards may vary by state or region |
Try these questions from our free Translation practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
What is 'back translation' used for in medical translation quality assurance?
Answer: A. Translating a document from the target language back into the source to check for errors
Back translation involves translating the target text back to the source language to identify discrepancies and verify accuracy.
In medical translation, what does 'IFU' stand for and why is its translation critical?
Answer: A. Instructions for Use — critical because users rely on them for safe and effective use of medical devices
Instructions for Use (IFU) are documents accompanying medical devices and must be accurately translated so users can operate them safely.
In literary translation, what is a 'ghost translator'?
Answer: B. An uncredited translator whose work is published under another's name
A ghost translator does the translation work but receives no public credit, with the named translator or author claiming the translation.
What is a 'translation memory'?
Answer: A. A database of previously translated segments
Translation memory stores past translations to reuse for matching segments.