Court Reporter Certification: Requirements to Complete a Court Reporter Certification Program

Published Aug 18, 2009

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Certification programs for Court Reporters are offered by national professional associations and state certification boards. Requirements generally include passing a written exam and a practical exam and earning continuing education requirements.

Court Reporter Certification Programs

Professional organizations, such as the National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA), www.nvra.org, and the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), www.ncraonline.org, offer certification for Court Reporters. These groups might require completion of a training workshop in addition to the exams. Some states have their own Court Reporters Certification Boards offering certification exams.

Court Reporter Exams

Most Court Reporter certification programs require passing both a written and a practical exam. Prior completion of a Court Reporting training program can be beneficial in passing the exam, which might cover transcript production, recording, ethics and industry practices. State board exams might additionally cover state statutes and rules related to court reporting. The practical exam tests speed and accuracy of an actual transcription. Minimum standards must be met for certification.

Continuing Education

Most Court Reporter certification programs require continuing education credits in order to maintain certification. A variety of continuing education opportunities are offered, including courses and workshops offered by professional organizations or educational institutions. Requirements vary by certifying organization. The NCRA requires three credits earned within a 3-year period.

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