Advisory Council on Hearing Aids - License Information

Education and Training

The following documents describe the training requirements for licensure (520 hours of practical training and completion of the International Hearing Society's Distance Learning Program for Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences under direct supervision):

• Step-By-Step Guide to Become a Hearing Aid Specialist
  
• Hearing Aid Specialist Training Program Information
  

Examination Information

The Health Licensing Office and the Advisory Council on Hearing Aids have approved three exams which must be passed in order to obtain licensure as a Hearing Aid Specialist in the State of Oregon. They are:

• The International Hearing Society (IHS) Written International Licensing Examination (ILE); and
• The state-prepared written laws and rules exam; and
  
• The state-prepared practical exam.
  

Written International Licensing Examination

The ILE consists of 80 scored and 25 non-scored (pilot) practice-scenario-based, multiple-choice test questions. Pilot (non-scored) questions allow the IHS to collect data on new test questions. Candidates are given two hours to complete the exam.

The exam is separated into 10 competency areas based on knowledge, skills and abilities required of Hearing Aid Specialists for safe and effective practice. Competency areas and recommended reference materials are listed in the IHS study guide. IHS textbooks are available for purchase at www.ihsinfo.org.

The ILE is offered at authorized testing centers located throughout Oregon. Applicants must obtain authorization from the HLO to proceed with registration through the IHS to sit for the ILE.

Official documentation of ILE results must be sent directly by the IHS to the HLO. Candidates will be notified by the HLO of a pass/fail based on their overall examination performance.

State-prepared Written Laws and Rules Exam

The state-prepared Oregon laws and rules exam consists of 20 multiple-choice questions. The time limit is 30 minutes. Passing the exam requires a score of 70 percent or higher.

HLO testing hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The state-prepared examination covers regulations for Hearing Aid Specialists listed within the Advisory Council on Hearing Aids Oregon Administrative Rules. Chapter 331, Division 601 is solely for the purpose of preparing for the exam and is not inclusive of all the regulations governing Hearing Aid Specialists in Oregon. The Administrative rules are posted online.

• Hearing Aid Oregon Laws and Rules Examination Information Bulletin

State-prepared Practical Exam

The state-prepared practical examination is used to determine the qualification, fitness and ability of an applicant to practice as a hearing aid specialist.

The practical exam is given by appointment only. The exam application and all application requirements must be received at the HLO 30 days prior to the scheduled practical exam date.

Time allotted for each section is as follows:

The practical examination consists of four sections with one section containing three segments: Audiometric Posting, Testing and Masking (P1A, P1B and P1C) section; Earmold Impressions (P2) section; Hearing Aid Fitting and Selection (P3) section; and the Hearing Aid Verification (P4) section.

Time allotted for each section of the practical is as follows:

• P1A - Audiogram Posting: 15 minutes
• P1B - Audiometric Testing: 50 minutes
• PIC - Masking: 40 minutes
• P2 - Earmold Testing: 20 minutes
• P3 - Hearing Aid Fitting and Selection: 20 minutes
• P4 - Hearing Aid Verification: 15 minutes

Practical Exam Schedule

State-prepared Laws and Rules Exam Retakes

• After first failed attempt, applicant may not retake until the office's next business day
• After second failed attempt, applicant may not retake until the office's next business day
• After third failed attempt, applicant may not retake until the office's next business day
• After fourth failed attempt, applicant may not retake for seven calendar days
• After fifth failed attempt, applicant may not retake for seven calendar days
• After sixth failed attempt, applicant may not retake for seven calendar days
• After seventh failed attempt, ability to retake, requirements for retake, or both, will be determined by the office or appropriate board or council on a case-by-case basis

This requirement does not apply to professions that have their own examination retake requirements.

Application Process

In addition to completing an application, paying fees and providing documentation regarding proof of age, identification and secondary education, applicants must provide the following:

Trainee Registration

Applicants must complete a Trainee Registration Agreement and Declaration of Responsibility required by ORS 694.065(2).

Temporary License

Individuals who have obtained the required training may apply for a temporary license, which allows them to practice under the supervision of a licensed specialist until they are able to pass the written and practical examinations. A Certification of Training form ( see below) must be completed before an application for a temporary license may be submitted.

Hearing Aid Specialist Forms

Identification Requirements

See the Identification Requirements page for details.

Continuing Education

Licensees must complete and attest to 12 hours of continuing education each year. Learn more on the continuing education page.