OpenExamsFREE PRACTICE — ANY EXAM

Maryland Hearing Instrument Specialist — Requirements & Free Practice

US-MD · License preparation

353 free questions · Answer explanations · No signup required

Choose what to practice

Start with an exam below. Your examination requirements depend on your application pathway. View licensing requirements

Combined practice

Choose an exam or combined practice to begin.

Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Hearing Aid Dispenser License

Full license to practice hearing aid dispensing in Maryland.

Licensing authority: board of examiners for audiologists, hearing aid dispensers, speech-language pathologists & music therapists · Application information

Application for a new license after the five year disciplinary reinstatement limit
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Disciplinary History
Apply for a new license under §2–317 after the five-year suspension/revocation reinstatement limit; meet current requirements and additional Board conditions. Applicable §2–305/COMAR written/practical waivers remain applicant conditions.
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Licensure by BC HIS based written and practical examination waiver
Law and Regulation Examination
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Certification
Hold current National Board Certification as a Hearing Instrument Specialist (BC-HIS). The state source names certification rather than the National Competency Exam, so certification is a condition.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Be currently licensed in good standing in the state from which applying.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Recent Practice
Have practiced three of the last five years before applying for Maryland licensure.
Written And Practical Waiver
COMAR 10.41.08.03D requires acceptance of qualifying BC-HIS certification instead of the written/practical examinations; the law examination remains required.
Licensure by endorsement and examination waiver based on equivalent out of state licensure
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Current out-of-state hearing aid dispensing license with requirements at least equivalent to Maryland, verified by the originating authority; meet Maryland practice requirements and pay the application fee.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Practical Waiver
The Board evaluates the practical examination given in the other state for equivalence and waiver. That other jurisdiction’s assessment is an applicant condition, not a Maryland examination leaf.
Preliminary Practice
The Board may allow preliminary practice while the completed application is pending under §2–301(b)(2).
Written Waiver
The full-license application states: The Board uses the International Hearing Society (IHS) exam as the written examination for licensure. Applicants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 71%. In order to qualify for a waiver of the written examination, the applicant shall have passed the IHS examination in another state and the practical exam is developed and administered be the Board. The Board will evaluate a practical examination given in another state to see if the applicant qualifies for a waiver of the practical examination.
Reinstatement within five years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 30 Board-approved hours within the two-year license period, including at least one CEU in cultural competency and one in ethics; COMAR 10.41.08.11 governs subject mix, prorating, extensions and waivers.
Criminal History
COMAR 10.41.08.12A requires a new State and national criminal records check every three renewal cycles/every six years.
Equipment Calibration
Supply proof that each audiometer in use was calibrated within the preceding 12 months.
Implicit Bias
Under Health Occupations §1–225, attest to approved implicit-bias and structural-racism training at the first renewal after April 1, 2026.
Lapse
After the thirty-day grace period, apply within five years of expiration, meet §2–308 renewal requirements and pay renewal/reinstatement fees.
Renewal Application
Submit the Board renewal application and renewal fee; remain otherwise eligible for licensure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Routine full license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 30 Board-approved hours within the two-year license period, including at least one CEU in cultural competency and one in ethics; COMAR 10.41.08.11 governs subject mix, prorating, extensions and waivers.
Criminal History
COMAR 10.41.08.12A requires a new State and national criminal records check every three renewal cycles/every six years.
Equipment Calibration
Supply proof that each audiometer in use was calibrated within the preceding 12 months.
Implicit Bias
Under Health Occupations §1–225, attest to approved implicit-bias and structural-racism training at the first renewal after April 1, 2026.
Renewal Application
Submit the Board renewal application and renewal fee; remain otherwise eligible for licensure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement of an existing license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the inactive-status application and fee.
Practice
No hearing aid dispensing may be performed while inactive.
Term
Initial inactive status may not exceed two years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
Failure to renew inactive status or reactivate places the license on nonrenewed status.
Practice
Inactive status does not authorize hearing aid dispensing.
Term
Renew inactive status for no more than two consecutive additional terms.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Retroactive renewal within the thirty day grace period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 30 Board-approved hours within the two-year license period, including at least one CEU in cultural competency and one in ethics; COMAR 10.41.08.11 governs subject mix, prorating, extensions and waivers.
Criminal History
COMAR 10.41.08.12A requires a new State and national criminal records check every three renewal cycles/every six years.
Equipment Calibration
Supply proof that each audiometer in use was calibrated within the preceding 12 months.
Grace Period
Apply within 30 days after expiration, remain otherwise eligible for renewal and pay renewal and late fees.
Implicit Bias
Under Health Occupations §1–225, attest to approved implicit-bias and structural-racism training at the first renewal after April 1, 2026.
Renewal Application
Submit the Board renewal application and renewal fee; remain otherwise eligible for licensure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Transfer of a current limited license to full licensure
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Law Previously Passed
The law examination was required for limited issuance; a complete current limited-license file need not resubmit other documents under the transfer instructions.
Limited Status
The limited license must remain valid and unexpired; submit Form HA5 for every training setting/supervisor and the full-license fee.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Prior Passage
COMAR 10.41.08.05E(3) accepts prior written/practical passage within the preceding two years if the limited license has not expired.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration through BC HIS based examination waiver
Law and Regulation Examination
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Certification
Hold current National Board Certification as a Hearing Instrument Specialist (BC-HIS). The state source names certification rather than the National Competency Exam, so certification is a condition.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Be currently licensed in good standing in the state from which applying.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Recent Practice
Have practiced three of the last five years before applying for Maryland licensure.
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration under §2–309(b); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Written And Practical Waiver
COMAR 10.41.08.03D requires acceptance of qualifying BC-HIS certification instead of the written/practical examinations; the law examination remains required.
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration through equivalent out of state licensure
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Current out-of-state hearing aid dispensing license with requirements at least equivalent to Maryland, verified by the originating authority; meet Maryland practice requirements and pay the application fee.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Practical Waiver
The Board evaluates the practical examination given in the other state for equivalence and waiver. That other jurisdiction’s assessment is an applicant condition, not a Maryland examination leaf.
Preliminary Practice
The Board may allow preliminary practice while the completed application is pending under §2–301(b)(2).
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration under §2–309(b); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Written Waiver
The full-license application states: The Board uses the International Hearing Society (IHS) exam as the written examination for licensure. Applicants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 71%. In order to qualify for a waiver of the written examination, the applicant shall have passed the IHS examination in another state and the practical exam is developed and administered be the Board. The Board will evaluate a practical examination given in another state to see if the applicant qualifies for a waiver of the practical examination.
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration through current new license examination requirements
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement more than five years after expiration under §2–309(b); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Discretionary delayed renewal following overseas uniformed service deployment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 30 Board-approved hours within the two-year license period, including at least one CEU in cultural competency and one in ethics; COMAR 10.41.08.11 governs subject mix, prorating, extensions and waivers.
Criminal History
COMAR 10.41.08.12A requires a new State and national criminal records check every three renewal cycles/every six years.
Deployment
The delay must result directly from deployment outside the United States or its territories; Board permission may excuse penalty/reinstatement fees and allow delayed completion of CE/competency or criminal checks.
Equipment Calibration
Supply proof that each audiometer in use was calibrated within the preceding 12 months.
Implicit Bias
Under Health Occupations §1–225, attest to approved implicit-bias and structural-racism training at the first renewal after April 1, 2026.
Renewal Application
Submit the Board renewal application and renewal fee; remain otherwise eligible for licensure.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed through BC HIS based examination waiver
Law and Regulation Examination
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Certification
Hold current National Board Certification as a Hearing Instrument Specialist (BC-HIS). The state source names certification rather than the National Competency Exam, so certification is a condition.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Be currently licensed in good standing in the state from which applying.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Recent Practice
Have practiced three of the last five years before applying for Maryland licensure.
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed under §2–308.1(g); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Written And Practical Waiver
COMAR 10.41.08.03D requires acceptance of qualifying BC-HIS certification instead of the written/practical examinations; the law examination remains required.
Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed through equivalent out of state licensure
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Current out-of-state hearing aid dispensing license with requirements at least equivalent to Maryland, verified by the originating authority; meet Maryland practice requirements and pay the application fee.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Practical Waiver
The Board evaluates the practical examination given in the other state for equivalence and waiver. That other jurisdiction’s assessment is an applicant condition, not a Maryland examination leaf.
Preliminary Practice
The Board may allow preliminary practice while the completed application is pending under §2–301(b)(2).
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed under §2–308.1(g); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Written Waiver
The full-license application states: The Board uses the International Hearing Society (IHS) exam as the written examination for licensure. Applicants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 71%. In order to qualify for a waiver of the written examination, the applicant shall have passed the IHS examination in another state and the practical exam is developed and administered be the Board. The Board will evaluate a practical examination given in another state to see if the applicant qualifies for a waiver of the practical examination.
Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed through current new license examination requirements
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Reinstatement Basis
Reinstatement after inactive status becomes nonrenewed under §2–308.1(g); meet the corresponding qualification alternative and Board continuing education requirements.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Licensure by examination for an already licensed out of state dispenser without an approved waiver
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Existing License
Hold a current out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; this exempts the six-month pre-examination training requirement, while waiver eligibility is assessed separately.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Preliminary Practice
The Board may grant preliminary practice permission while a completed license application is pending under §2–301(b)(2).
Licensure for a physician intending to sell hearing aids at retail
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Graduate of an accredited two-year postsecondary program with a diploma or degree.
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Medical License
Hold a valid medical license in Maryland or another state. The controlling §2–302.1(d)(2) six-month training exception names only an out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license. The lower-ranked COMAR 10.41.08.03B also states an exception for a medical license: B. Except for an applicant who holds a valid license to provide hearing aid dispenser services in another state or an applicant who holds a valid license to practice medicine in this State or any other state, the applicant shall obtain 6 months training under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dispenser before taking the examination given by the Board.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Practical Request
For an applicant licensed to practice medicine in Maryland or another state who intends to sell hearing aids at retail, COMAR 10.41.08.03C(2) directs the Board to request the practical examination for consumer protection; it does not require practical-examination passage as a licensing prerequisite.
Supervised Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Reactivation during a current inactive status term
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Requirements
Comply with other Board requirements; §2–308.1(e) identifies no examination.
Criminal History
Complete the applicable criminal-history check if not already satisfied, as described in the Board instructions.
Fee
Pay the Board reactivation fee.
Inactive Status
Apply while the inactive-status term remains effective.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Hearing Aid Dispenser Limited License

Limited license for supervised hearing aid dispensing while completing full licensing requirements.

Licensing authority: Maryland State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists · Application information

Initial limited licensure while awaiting the licensing examination
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Health Occupations §2–310.1(b)(1) defers the §2–302.1(c) degree/course requirements. The lower-ranked Board limited checklist nevertheless states: ____ Official College transcript (must show completion of a two-year degree program)
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Purpose
Waiting to take the licensing examination; the current written/practical assessments are involved but passage is deferred until full licensure.
Supervision
Practice only under a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist. The supervisor must satisfy COMAR 10.41.08.06K and assume responsibility for training and ethical conduct.
Term
One-year term; total practice under limited license(s) may not exceed two years.
Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Reapplication for limited licensure after the required waiting period
Application
Submit the signed application, required supporting documentation, passport photograph, privacy form and fee; current Board notices require online submissions.
Character
Good moral character is required by Health Occupations §2–302.1(b).
Criminal History
Complete the State and national criminal history records check; the Board cannot issue a license before receiving the required records.
Curriculum
Before the licensing examination, provide successful completion of the IHS Distance Learning For Professionals in Hearing Health Sciences curriculum or a Board-approved equivalent under §2–302.1(c)(2).
Education
Health Occupations §2–310.1(b)(1) defers the §2–302.1(c) degree/course requirements. The lower-ranked Board limited checklist nevertheless states: ____ Official College transcript (must show completion of a two-year degree program)
Implicit Bias
The application checklist requires implicit-bias training with a structural-racism component.
Military Assistance
Health Occupations §§1–702 and 1–704 provide qualifying active service members, eligible veterans and eligible spouses with credit for Board-determined equivalent military training/experience, an advisor and expedited processing; ordinary licensing requirements remain applicable.
Oral Competency
Demonstrate English oral competency: at least 60 undergraduate credits with English as the language of instruction, or TOEFL at least 105 with at least 26 in Speaking and Listening within two years of application; TOEFL is an applicant condition.
Purpose
Waiting to take the licensing examination; the current written/practical assessments are involved but passage is deferred until full licensure.
Supervision
Practice only under a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist. The supervisor must satisfy COMAR 10.41.08.06K and assume responsibility for training and ethical conduct.
Term
One-year term; total practice under limited license(s) may not exceed two years.
Training
Health Occupations §2–302.1(d)(2) requires six months of training unless the applicant holds a valid out-of-state hearing aid dispenser license; a licensed hearing aid dispenser or audiologist may supervise under that statute. COMAR 10.41.08.06 requires 20 consecutive days of direct continuous supervision followed by at least 40 hours per month for at least six months, with the supervisor immediately available and physically on site.
Waiting Period
Under §2–310.1(g), wait at least one year after failing to obtain full licensure within two years. Section 2–310.1(f) separately caps total practice under limited license(s) at two years.
One time limited license renewal
Application
Submit the limited renewal form and fee; the Board instructions require submission at least 30 days before expiration.
Exam Attempt
Take but fail the licensing examination, or fail to take it for a reason the Board accepts; the attempt/excuse is a condition rather than required passage before renewal.
Law Exam
Law examination passage belongs to original limited issuance; the statutory renewal criteria do not require a new law examination.
Limited Status
Renew once for one additional year; total practice under limited license(s) may not exceed two years.
Supervision
Continue supervised training; if full licensure is not obtained within two years, wait at least one year before applying again.

Law and Regulation Examination

Provider
Maryland State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists
Format
Open-book examination, delivered electronically
Passing score
75% or higher
Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Health Occupations Article, Title 2 — Maryland Audiology, Hearing Aid Dispensing, Speech–Language Pathology, and Music Therapy Act
  • COMAR 10.41.02 — Code of Ethics
  • COMAR 10.41.03 — Licensure and Continuing Education
  • COMAR 10.41.04 — Rules of Procedure for Board Hearings
  • COMAR 10.41.06 — Telehealth
  • COMAR 10.41.08 — Hearing Aid Dispensing
  • COMAR 10.41.09 — Civil Penalties
  • COMAR 10.41.10 — Compelling Purpose Disclosure
  • COMAR 10.41.12 — Supervision of Students
  • COMAR 10.41.13 — Sanctioning Guidelines
  • Commercial Law Article, Title 14, Subtitle 25 — Hearing Aid Sales
Examination sources

Hearing Aid Dispensers (HAD) Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Maryland State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists
Format
Board practical proficiency assessment
Passing score
At least 80 percent
Examination outline
  • Pure tone audiometry, including testing and recording of air and bone conduction
  • Speech audiometry, including speech reception and speech discrimination testing
  • Masking methodology
  • Choice and adaptation of hearing aids
  • Testing of hearing aids
  • Maintenance and basic repair of hearing aids
  • Taking of ear mold impressions
  • Other techniques and procedures that may be required to fit hearing aids
Examination sources

International Licensing Examination for Hearing Healthcare Professionals

Provider
International Hearing Society (IHS); scheduled and paid through the TestWise system at testing centers
Format
Practice-based computer-delivered multiple-choice examination; most questions present a scenario; a few questions require selecting two (or three) correct answers to earn one point; dichotomous right/wrong scoring
Exam questions
105 multiple-choice questions: 80 scored and 25 unscored pilot questions
Time limit
120 minutes (two hours)
Passing score
Pass/Fail on the overall raw score against the IHS-recommended passing score; the licensing agency makes the final decision
Exam fee
$260.00 (USD) per examination appointment, including re-takes, plus applicable taxes
Examination outline
  • Domain 1. Conduct Patient/Client Assessment (21%) (21%)
    • Objective 1.1 Apply infection control protocols (5%). Includes but is not limited to choosing appropriate infection control processes for tools and equipment; observing universal precautions for infection control; distinguishing between single- and multiple-use items; differentiating among sanitization, disinfection and sterilization processes; and identifying personal protective equipment.
    • Objective 1.2 Apply otoscopic inspection protocols (5%). Includes but is not limited to observing safety protocols during otoscopy; identifying anatomical structures; identifying abnormalities through otoscopic inspection; and recognizing the presence of referral criteria. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform otoscopy.
    • Objective 1.3 Utilize audiometric testing protocols (11%). Includes but is not limited to performing air and bone conduction threshold and suprathreshold testing; performing speech audiometry; performing effective masking; and applying principles to include interpreting results of tympanometry/immittance audiometry. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform audiometric testing and application of tympanometry.
  • Domain 2. Interpret and Apply Assessment Results (22%) (22%)
    • Objective 2.1 Interpret and explain audiometric results (11%). Includes but is not limited to demonstrating an understanding of referral criteria; interpreting pure tone and speech testing results; identifying the need for additional testing; identifying the degree and configuration of hearing loss; and identifying the type of hearing loss.
    • Objective 2.2 Determine candidacy for amplification (11%). Includes but is not limited to interpreting the case history and outlining contraindications to hearing instrument use.
  • Domain 3. Select Hearing Devices (18%) (18%)
    • Objective 3.1 Select style and type of hearing instruments (9%). Includes but is not limited to establishing fitting goals and selecting specific hearing instruments based on test results, case history, and individual patient/client preferences and lifestyle; selecting electroacoustic and physical properties; and evaluating the need for accessory devices.
    • Objective 3.2 Select earmold or other acoustic coupler (9%). Includes but is not limited to assessing physical properties of the outer ear, taking ear impressions, critiquing ear impressions, and selecting coupler based on patient/client needs.
  • Domain 4. Fit and Dispense Hearing Devices (20%) (20%)
    • Objective 4.1 Utilize protocols to fit hearing instruments and other devices (10%). Includes but is not limited to confirming physical and acoustic integrity of hearing devices; programming and adjusting hearing devices; verifying physical fit and acoustic comfort; orienting patient/client to hearing instruments; and orienting patient/client to assistive devices. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to program and dispense hearing instruments and other devices.
    • Objective 4.2 Verify fitting (5%). Includes but is not limited to selecting verification method based on patient/client; assessing physical and acoustic integrity of hearing devices; interpreting and explaining verification results; and modifying physical and acoustic parameters of device. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform fitting verification (e.g., speech mapping, REM).
    • Objective 4.3 Validate fitting (5%). Includes but is not limited to selecting validation method based on patient/client; interpreting and explaining validation results; and modifying physical and acoustic parameters of device. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform fitting validation (e.g., questionnaire, self-assessment).
  • Domain 5. Provide Continuing Care (19%) (19%)
    • Objective 5.1 Implement aural rehabilitation and counseling (8%). Includes but is not limited to demonstrating an understanding of the psychology of the hearing impaired; defining and managing patient/client expectations for improved communication; defining and managing family/caregiver expectations for improved communication; and identifying communication strategies.
    • Objective 5.2 Apply instrument maintenance and troubleshooting protocols (9%). Includes but is not limited to employing hearing instrument cleaning procedures; performing listening checks on hearing instruments; troubleshooting acoustic properties of hearing instruments; and adjusting based upon changes in patient/client hearing loss and/or listening needs. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to maintain and troubleshoot instrument performance.
    • Objective 5.3 Interpret electroacoustic analysis results (2%). Includes but is not limited to identifying need for electroacoustic analysis and comparing electroacoustic analysis of patient’s/client’s hearing instruments to fitting specifications.
Examination sources