Hearing Aid Dispenser

Qualifications for Licensure

  1. Must submit to fingerprinting.
  2. Be at least 18 years of age.
  3. Be a high school graduate (or equivalency).
  4. Pass California Hearing Aid Dispensing Written and Practical Examinations.

Pathways to Licensure

Option 1 – Applicant/Written Exam - No License
  • This pathway to licensure requires you to pass both the California written and practical exams to obtain your full license. You are not allowed to work without a license.
Option 2 – Trainee with Supervision - Temporary License
  • This pathway to licensure requires you to find a hearing aid dispenser who has been licensed at least three years in California to become your supervisor. The trainee temporary license is issued for six months and can be renewed two times. As a trainee, you must take the written exam within the first 10 months of issuance.
Option 3 – Licensed in Another State - Temporary License
  • You must possess an active and current hearing aid dispensing license from another state. This temporary license is issued for 12 months and allows you to work as a hearing aid dispenser. It is not renewable. During these 12 months you must take and pass both the California written and practical exams. If you fail either exam, you must immediately surrender your temporary license.

Practical Examination Dates

  • You must pass the written exam before taking the practical exam.
  • The practical exam is offered at a minimum of two times annually but on average three to four times annually.
  • The Practical Exam application fee is $500.
  • Please be advised that you must bring your own equipment & subject to the exam, or you will not be allowed to take the exam. There will be NO sharing of equipment allowed at the exam.
Date of Exam: Location: Filing Periods:
January 30-31, 2026   December 11-24, 2025
March 20-21, 2026   January 29-February 12, 2026
July 24-25, 2026   June 4-18, 2026
September 18-19, 2026   July 30-August 14, 2026
November 6-7, 2026   September 17–October 1, 2026
  • Due to State regulations, applications cannot be received before the first day of the registration period or they will be returned.
  • Results of the practical exam are mailed within four to six weeks.
  • The Board allows reasonable testing accommodations to those who submit the appropriate form and documentation.
Note: If no exam date is listed, the Board has not scheduled an exam. Exam dates are subject to change. Please check the website to confirm that the filing period is still active prior to submitting your application and fee.

Examination Links

Important Links