---
kind: "section"
citation: "38 C.F.R. § 21.152"
title: "38"
number: "21.152"
heading: "Interpreter service for the hearing impaired."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/38/21.152"
---

# §21.152. Interpreter service for the hearing impaired.

- (a) **General.** The main purpose of interpreter service for the hearing impaired is to facilitate instructor-student communication. VA will provide interpreter service as necessary for the development and pursuit of a rehabilitation program. This service will be provided if:
  - (1) **A VA physician determines that—**
    - (i) The veteran is deaf or his or her hearing is severely impaired; and
    - (ii) All appropriate services and aids have been furnished to improve the veteran's residual hearing; or
  - (2) **A VA physician determines that the veteran—**
    - (i) Can benefit from language and speech training; and
    - (ii) **Agrees to undertake language and speech training.**
- (b) **Periods during which interpreter service may be provided.** Interpreter service may be furnished during:
  - (1) Initial evaluation or reevaluation;
  - (2) Extended evaluation;
  - (3) Rehabilitation to the point of employability;
  - (4) Independent living services; or
  - (5) **Employment services, including the first three months of employment.**
- (c) **Selecting the interpreter.** Only certified interpreters or persons meeting generally accepted standards for interpreters shall provide interpreter service. When an individual is not certified by a State or professional association, VA shall seek the assistance of a State certifying agency or a professional association in ascertaining whether the individual is qualified to serve as an interpreter.
- (d) **Relatives.** Interpreter service at VA expense may not be provided by a relative of the veteran. The term relative has the same meaning as under [§ 21.374](/cfr/38/21.374.md) pertaining to the use of relatives as attendants.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 38 U.S.C. 501(a), chs. 18, 31, and as noted in specific sections.

### Source

Source: 49 FR 40814, Oct. 18, 1984, unless otherwise noted.