A discussion about translation services, translators, and translation software

I received a comment from someone wanting to know how to become a "certified" translator.  A good question merits a precise and helpful reply.  Without any desire to offend, I give this precise answer; to become a certified translator, get someone to give you a certificate.  Now for the helpful part.

Some institutions (universities, for example) offer a series of classes that culminate in the awarding of a certificate of translation.  Graduates thus become "certified" translators with evidence of their education and capabilities.  Certain entities, such as state judicial offices, certify translators via exams of their own making.  Pass their exam and you become "certified", but only for their work.  (Others might respect that certification as evidence of your abilities, but don't count on it.)  Finally, there are accreditation or certification exams offered by professional organizations such as the American Translators Association (ATA).  Pass their exam and they give you a certificate, and you are recognized widely as a competent translator.

The ATA exams are offered periodically and in a variety of places.  The 2006 Exam Sitting calendar (9 dates announced, with more to be added) can be seen via the ATA site.  It also gives the language pairs to be tested.  Most of the major ones are there for into and out of English.  The cost for the exam is $160 US plus travel costs to get to the site of the exam.

I welcome feedback from those who have taken the ATA exam.  Tell us about the experience.