How to Become a Licensed Hearing Aid Dealer
Licensed hearing aid dealers are responsible for dispensing and servicing a wide array or hearing aid devices and instruments. Licensed hearing aid dealers have to complete licensure required by a state board of review. Dealers must have successfully completed the state's required educational and training requirements, and examination certification before beginning operation.
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Things You'll Need
- Money for required courses, application and licensure fees Felony free background check Ability to physically accomplish all required tasks
Instructions
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A hearing aid is legally described as any wearable device that enhances hearing, or related hearing aid instruments, attachments and parts. Hearing aid dealers are also charged with fitting, measuring, and testing both the devices and the hearing of the customers. Training on the proper use of an audiometer is also required prior to receiving licensure to become a hearing aid dealer. Apprenticeship under a licensed hearing aid dealer is required in some states.
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A Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Licensing Board processes proposed candidates within 60 days of receiving a completed application packet. A fee of approximately $280 is charged for accreditation. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, not have any type of infectious disease, have a clean background check and have a passing score on the state board examination. Licenses have to be renewed annually. Ten hours of continuing education courses must be completed each year.
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Classes for hearing aid licensure dealers vary by state, but most cover a similar set of course work. Students complete classroom and hands-on training from an accredited learning institution during the coursework process. Topics generally covered during training include the physics of sound, function of hearing aids, anatomy and physiology of the human ear, tone audiometry, air conduction, bone conduction, speech audiometry, speech reception, masking techniques, reading and scoring audiograms and ear mold impression techniques.
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Hearing aid dealer candidates must show proof of either a high school diploma or equivalent. Upon entering an accredited training program, an application fee of approximately $150 must be paid to the governing state controlling board. Permits to begin classes expire one year after being issued. A permit to study and be seated for an examination does not allow adult learners to begin the practices associated with a hearing aid dealer.
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The state governing board determines specific complaint and disciplinary procedures and punishments for infractions. Questions concerning both the prohibited acts, structure for dealing with complaints, and exemptions are featured on the licensing examination. Acts committed by a licensed hearing aid dealer that can result in license revocation and criminal prosecution include bartering or selling a hearing aids license to another, purchase or attempt to buy a license from a hearing aid dealer, attempt to use a license which has be purchased or counterfeited, altering a license or permit in any way or knowingly making a false statement on any document or form.
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Resources
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