Skip to content
LexBuild

38 CFR § 21.152 - Interpreter service for the hearing impaired. 

---
identifier: "/us/cfr/t38/s21.152"
source: "ecfr"
legal_status: "authoritative_unofficial"
title: "38 CFR § 21.152 - Interpreter service for the hearing impaired."
title_number: 38
title_name: "Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief"
section_number: "21.152"
section_name: "Interpreter service for the hearing impaired."
chapter_name: "DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS"
part_number: "21"
part_name: "VETERAN READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION"
positive_law: false
currency: "2026-03-24"
last_updated: "2026-03-24"
format_version: "1.1.0"
generator: "[email protected]"
cfr_part: "21"
---

# 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 pertaining to the use of relatives as attendants.