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North Carolina Hearing Instrument Specialist — Requirements & Free Practice

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Apprentice Registration Certificate

Supervised authority to fit and sell hearing aids during apprenticeship.

Licensing authority: North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board · Application information

Renewal after failing one or more examination parts
Application
Within 20 days of the Official Notice of Examination Results, submit F1 and F1 affidavit, calibration, photograph, background check, $150 renewal fee, and licensure/exam application to take the next examination; subsequent failed-exam renewals repeat that procedure.
Certificate expiry
Certificate expires 30 days after the latest Official Notice of Examination Results.
Failed result
Renewing apprentice failed to pass all examination parts.
Previous parts
Retain previously passed valid parts and transfer an existing ILE score where applicable; Part D does not expire.
Renewal after initial 365 day apprenticeship certificate
Application deadline
Within 14 days, submit the licensure/exam application under .0503(a)(2) to take the next scheduled exam.
Certificate expiry
Renewed certificate expires 30 days after the latest Official Notice of Examination Results under .0303(e).
Good cause
G.S. 93D-9(d) permits nonrenewal if an applicant age 18 or older fails to take the succeeding examination after one full year, except good cause satisfactory to the Board.
Initial expiration
Initial apprentice certificate expired after 365 cumulative days.
Previous parts
Previously passed parts need not be retaken while valid; all currently offered examinations the renewal route involves remain leaves.
Progression from personal to general supervision
Continued supervision
Registered Sponsor remains responsible and may still require direct or personal supervision during the rest of apprenticeship.
Existing certificate
Holds a valid apprentice registration certificate and Registered Sponsor.
Passed parts
Parts A, B and C must have been passed and their Official Notice of Examination Results received by the sponsor before general supervision begins.
Initial apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
F1, F1 affidavit, calibration, passport-style photo, background check and $100 fee under 21 NCAC 22F .0301(b).
Duration
Initial certificate and replacements within the first year expire after a cumulative 365 days holding a valid certificate under .0303(a).
Minimum age
17 or older under G.S. 93D-9(a).
Sponsor
Registered Sponsor must supervise and train the apprentice.
Supervision
Personal supervision until Parts A, B and C have been passed under .0301(g). Initial registration itself precedes examination.
Supplemental information
Board may request case-specific recommendations, affidavits, transcripts or an appearance under .0301(d).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Replacement apprentice certificate after change of sponsor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
New sponsor
F1 replacement/change-of-sponsor application and affidavit identify the new Registered Sponsor; provide calibration, photograph, fees and required background check.
Report
Return old certificate and submit the termination/experience report within 14 days under .0304(c).
Termination
Old certificate becomes invalid immediately on termination; stop practice until the Board issues a valid replacement certificate.
Time credit
Replacement within the first year counts toward the same cumulative 365 days of valid certification under .0303(a); supervision follows existing verified exam results.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • chapter-22-rules.pdf

    21 NCAC 22F .0301, passage beginning (b) In order to complete, ending before (f) An apprentice may

  • chapter-22-rules.pdf

    21 NCAC 22F .0304, passage beginning (a) If the apprentice or registered sponsor, ending before (b) If the apprentice fails

  • chapter-22-rules.pdf

    21 NCAC 22A .0403, passage beginning (a) F1 Form, ending before (b) F4 Form

Hearing Aid Specialist License

License to undertake activities within the hearing aid specialist scope under Chapter 93D.

Licensing authority: North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board · Application information

Annual license renewal
Annual fee
Pay the annual renewal fee, currently $250, before April 1 under G.S. 93D-11 and 21 NCAC 22A .0501.
Calibration
Submit calibration proof dated within the preceding 12 months under 21 NCAC 22I .0108(b); the nonpracticing affidavit waiver may apply for at most three consecutive renewal years under .0108(c), and practice cannot resume until calibration proof is furnished.
Continuing education
Ordinarily complete and record 10 hours/1.00 CEU of Board-approved Category 1 continuing education in the preceding calendar year; report by January 10. Under 21 NCAC 22F .0202(c), passing the licensing exam during that accrual period satisfies CE for the corresponding renewal, so current examinations remain leaves as that alternative, not a demand to sit them every year. Self-study course examinations are education conditions, not separately identifiable licensing examinations.
Prior ile
A current ILE passing score remains an examination leaf; Part D results do not expire and previously passed scores may be transferred under the adopted examination rules.
Licensure by equivalent out of jurisdiction credentials
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application fee
Application fee set by the Board, not exceeding $150 under G.S. 93D-6.
Board faq
The September 4, 2026 Board FAQ states: "NC currently does not have reciprocity with any other state." and "In order to be licensed in NC, the Board requires anyone seeking a license, to sit for and pass all four parts of the Board’s exam.". The statute expressly exempts an applicant accepted under G.S. 93D-6 from the examinations and procedures of G.S. 93D-5; the Board’s stated practice is retained as a condition, not substituted for the statutory exemption.
Current license
Current, unsuspended, unrevoked license or certificate in that jurisdiction.
Equivalency
Board determines the other jurisdiction’s licensing requirements and qualification-determination program are at least equivalent; issuance is discretionary under G.S. 93D-6.
Experience
One full year of experience satisfactory to the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after five or more years
Application
Application for reinstatement, good cause, renewal fee and $50 late penalty under G.S. 93D-11.
Ce exam
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0121(b), satisfactory annual CE evidence consists of passing the Board’s qualifying examination; the special continuous out-of-jurisdiction license route is recorded separately.
Expiration
License expired five or more years.
Prior ile
Previously passed ILE remains a leaf; its score does not expire.
Reinstatement after five or more years with continuous out of jurisdiction licensure
Part C: Laws and Regulations Multiple-Choice Examination
Application
Application, good cause, renewal fee and $50 late penalty under G.S. 93D-11.
Expiration
North Carolina license expired five or more years.
Limited exam
21 NCAC 22F .0121(c) requires only the regulatory-issues portion, identified as Part C by .0105(3).
Other license
Continuously held a valid license to fit and sell hearing aids in another state or jurisdiction for the five consecutive years before seeking reinstatement.
Reinstatement after more than 60 days but less than five years
Ce alternative
21 NCAC 22F .0121(a) permits the applicant to satisfy annual CE by passing the qualifying examination; CE may be supplied instead, and this discretion is an applicant condition rather than deletion of the examination leaves.
Expiration
License expired more than 60 days but less than five years.
Good cause
Application, good cause, renewal fee and $50 late penalty under G.S. 93D-11.
Prior ile
Passing ILE score may be transferred; Part D results do not expire.
Reinstatement within 60 days after expiration
Annual fee
Pay the annual renewal fee, currently $250, before April 1 under G.S. 93D-11 and 21 NCAC 22A .0501.
Calibration
Submit calibration proof dated within the preceding 12 months under 21 NCAC 22I .0108(b); the nonpracticing affidavit waiver may apply for at most three consecutive renewal years under .0108(c), and practice cannot resume until calibration proof is furnished.
Continuing education
Ordinarily complete and record 10 hours/1.00 CEU of Board-approved Category 1 continuing education in the preceding calendar year; report by January 10. Under 21 NCAC 22F .0202(c), passing the licensing exam during that accrual period satisfies CE for the corresponding renewal, so current examinations remain leaves as that alternative, not a demand to sit them every year. Self-study course examinations are education conditions, not separately identifiable licensing examinations.
Expiration
License expired for no more than 60 days after default in fee payment.
Good cause
Board may reinstate on good cause for late payment, renewal fee payment, and $25 late penalty under G.S. 93D-11.
Prior ile
A current ILE passing score remains an examination leaf; Part D results do not expire and previously passed scores may be transferred under the adopted examination rules.
Licensure by examination after apprenticeship
Application
Duly made F4 license/exam-registration application, notarized affidavit, audiometer calibration, passport-style photo, background check and applicable fees; out-of-state applicants also provide F6/F7 documentation and IHS score transfer when applicable. Apply at least 45 days before the examination under 21 NCAC 22A .0503.
Apprenticeship
One full year unless a statutory or military waiver applies; 27 clock hours per week for 50 weeks and a valid apprentice certificate for 365 days within 24 consecutive months under 21 NCAC 22A .0401(c)(7).
Education
Education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school under G.S. 93D-5(a)(3).
License issuance
Pay the $25 certificate fee within ten business days of receiving exam results; non-apprentice applicants provide a North Carolina business street address and audiometer calibration with the application or within 90 days after passing, as stated in the November 2026 official announcement.
Minimum age
18 years or older under G.S. 93D-5(a)(2).
Moral character
Good moral character, established to the Board’s satisfaction under G.S. 93D-5(a)(1).
Previous ile pass
A previously passed ILE remains a leaf; an out-of-state, military-trained or military-spouse applicant may submit the IHS ILE score-transfer letter rather than retake Part D under 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3).
Score validity
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0107, Parts A–C expire 31 months after initial apprenticeship registration for an applicant completing the apprenticeship, or 19 months after the exam for exempt applicants or exams taken more than 31 months after initial registration. Part D results do not expire.
Renewal while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
Annual fee
Pay the annual renewal fee, currently $250, before April 1 under G.S. 93D-11 and 21 NCAC 22A .0501.
Calibration
Submit calibration proof dated within the preceding 12 months under 21 NCAC 22I .0108(b); the nonpracticing affidavit waiver may apply for at most three consecutive renewal years under .0108(c), and practice cannot resume until calibration proof is furnished.
Continuing education
Ordinarily complete and record 10 hours/1.00 CEU of Board-approved Category 1 continuing education in the preceding calendar year; report by January 10. Under 21 NCAC 22F .0202(c), passing the licensing exam during that accrual period satisfies CE for the corresponding renewal, so current examinations remain leaves as that alternative, not a demand to sit them every year. Self-study course examinations are education conditions, not separately identifiable licensing examinations.
Military extension
License is in good standing; applicant serves in the Armed Forces and qualifies for the tax-return extension referenced by 21 NCAC 22F .0123(g). Board waives renewal and CE reporting fees and grants up to one additional year to complete/report CE; examination substitution remains available.
Prior ile
A current ILE passing score remains an examination leaf; Part D results do not expire and previously passed scores may be transferred under the adopted examination rules.
Military licensure by proficiency examination
Application
F10, F4 affidavit, calibration, photograph, background check, proof of military training, and IHS score transfer if applicable under 21 NCAC 22A .0503(a)(3).
Documentation
Official notarized military specialty certification and occupational experience documentation, such as DD-214.
Failure
After failure, the Board may require the equivalent training and experience conditions of G.S. 93B-15.1(a).
Fees
No initial application fee under G.S. 93B-15.1(k); third-party actual costs and ordinary renewal charges may remain.
Prior ile
Previously passed current ILE remains a leaf and may be transferred rather than retaken; Part D results do not expire.
Routine proficiency exam
G.S. 93B-15.1(a2) says a routinely offered proficiency examination satisfies this pathway; the adopted 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3)/.0105 identify the Board’s four-part examination for military-trained applicants.
Military spouse licensure by endorsement
Application
F10, F4 affidavit, calibration, photograph, background check, F6/F7 verification and IHS score transfer if applicable under 21 NCAC 22A .0503(a)(4).
Competency
G.S. 93B-15.1(b)(2) permits competency methods determined by the Board, such as continuing education or two of five years of recent practice; the Board’s .0104(3) and linked spouse instructions require the four-part examination.
Fees
No initial application fee under G.S. 93B-15.1(k); third-party actual costs and ordinary renewal charges may remain.
Good standing
Good standing, no disqualifying acts, no discipline by the issuing agency, and no pending complaints under G.S. 93B-15.1(b)(3)-(4).
License
Current occupational license, certification or registration from another jurisdiction whose requirements are substantially equivalent to or exceed North Carolina requirements.
Marriage
Board-linked military-spouse instructions request evidence of marriage to an active U.S. military member.
Prior ile
A transferred passing ILE score may excuse retaking Part D; the currently offered examination remains a leaf.
Timing
Current statute provides 15-day issuance or unmet-criteria notice under G.S. 93B-15.1(b1).
Licensure through equivalent military training and experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exam demands
21 NCAC 22F .0104(3) says "(3) The applicant shall pass all parts of the Board's licensing exam as set forth in 21 NCAC 22F .0105. In the event an out of state applicant, military trained applicant, or military spouse applicant has previously taken and passed Part D of the Board's licensing exam, this applicant shall submit an ILE score transfer letter from the IHS so as not to re-take Part D; and". The Board-linked Basic Requirements military-audiologist instructions also say "(3) Has passed Parts B, C & D of the Board’s exam;". Current G.S. 93B-15.1(a) mandates issuance on its stated military-training and experience conditions notwithstanding other law; these lower-ranked examination demands are displayed as conditions.
Fees
No initial application fee under G.S. 93B-15.1(k); ordinary renewal and third-party costs may remain.
Military training
Military occupational specialty, completed training, testing or equivalent training and experience, and performance substantially equivalent to or exceeding North Carolina requirements. Military training tests or examinations of another profession are qualifications, not leaves.
Professional fitness
No act constituting grounds for denial, suspension or revocation, and no pending complaints under G.S. 93B-15.1(a)(3).
Recent practice
Active occupational practice for at least two of the five preceding years; count relevant full-time, part-time, paid and volunteer official-duty experience as G.S. 93B-15.1(c) directs.
Timing
Current G.S. 93B-15.1(a1) gives 15 days for issuance or notice specifying unmet criteria; the older rule’s 30-day wording does not replace the statute.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • gs-93b-15-1.html

    G.S. 93B-15.1(a), mandatory experience pathway

  • chapter-22-rules.pdf

    21 NCAC 22F .0123, passage beginning (a) The Board shall issue a license to a military-trained, ending before (b) The Board shall issue

Annual renewal with nonpracticing calibration waiver
Annual fee
Pay the annual renewal fee, currently $250, before April 1 under G.S. 93D-11 and 21 NCAC 22A .0501.
Calibration
Submit calibration proof dated within the preceding 12 months under 21 NCAC 22I .0108(b); the nonpracticing affidavit waiver may apply for at most three consecutive renewal years under .0108(c), and practice cannot resume until calibration proof is furnished.
Continuing education
Ordinarily complete and record 10 hours/1.00 CEU of Board-approved Category 1 continuing education in the preceding calendar year; report by January 10. Under 21 NCAC 22F .0202(c), passing the licensing exam during that accrual period satisfies CE for the corresponding renewal, so current examinations remain leaves as that alternative, not a demand to sit them every year. Self-study course examinations are education conditions, not separately identifiable licensing examinations.
Nonpracticing
Affidavit that the applicant is not engaged in or compensated for licensed fitting or selling; Board may waive the calibration-renewal requirement for up to three consecutive years; no resumption of practice until recent calibration is furnished.
Prior ile
A current ILE passing score remains an examination leaf; Part D results do not expire and previously passed scores may be transferred under the adopted examination rules.
Licensure by examination after full time otolaryngologist supervision
Application
Duly made F4 license/exam-registration application, notarized affidavit, audiometer calibration, passport-style photo, background check and applicable fees; out-of-state applicants also provide F6/F7 documentation and IHS score transfer when applicable. Apply at least 45 days before the examination under 21 NCAC 22A .0503.
Apprenticeship
Worked full-time for one year fitting or selling hearing aids in an otolaryngologist’s office under that physician’s direct supervision under G.S. 93D-5(c)(5); provide the Board’s otolaryngologist affidavit.
Education
Education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school under G.S. 93D-5(a)(3).
License issuance
Pay the $25 certificate fee within ten business days of receiving exam results; non-apprentice applicants provide a North Carolina business street address and audiometer calibration with the application or within 90 days after passing, as stated in the November 2026 official announcement.
Minimum age
18 years or older under G.S. 93D-5(a)(2).
Moral character
Good moral character, established to the Board’s satisfaction under G.S. 93D-5(a)(1).
Previous ile pass
A previously passed ILE remains a leaf; an out-of-state, military-trained or military-spouse applicant may submit the IHS ILE score-transfer letter rather than retake Part D under 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3).
Score validity
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0107, Parts A–C expire 31 months after initial apprenticeship registration for an applicant completing the apprenticeship, or 19 months after the exam for exempt applicants or exams taken more than 31 months after initial registration. Part D results do not expire.
Licensure by examination with three year out of jurisdiction apprenticeship waiver
Application
Duly made F4 license/exam-registration application, notarized affidavit, audiometer calibration, passport-style photo, background check and applicable fees; out-of-state applicants also provide F6/F7 documentation and IHS score transfer when applicable. Apply at least 45 days before the examination under 21 NCAC 22A .0503.
Apprenticeship
Continuously licensed to fit or sell hearing aids in another state or jurisdiction for the immediately preceding three years under G.S. 93D-5(c)(4); F6 affidavit and F7 license verification are required.
Education
Education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school under G.S. 93D-5(a)(3).
License issuance
Pay the $25 certificate fee within ten business days of receiving exam results; non-apprentice applicants provide a North Carolina business street address and audiometer calibration with the application or within 90 days after passing, as stated in the November 2026 official announcement.
Minimum age
18 years or older under G.S. 93D-5(a)(2).
Moral character
Good moral character, established to the Board’s satisfaction under G.S. 93D-5(a)(1).
Previous ile pass
A previously passed ILE remains a leaf; an out-of-state, military-trained or military-spouse applicant may submit the IHS ILE score-transfer letter rather than retake Part D under 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3).
Score validity
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0107, Parts A–C expire 31 months after initial apprenticeship registration for an applicant completing the apprenticeship, or 19 months after the exam for exempt applicants or exams taken more than 31 months after initial registration. Part D results do not expire.
Voluntary hearing aid specialist licensure by examination with permanent audiologist waiver
Application
Duly made F4 license/exam-registration application, notarized affidavit, audiometer calibration, passport-style photo, background check and applicable fees; out-of-state applicants also provide F6/F7 documentation and IHS score transfer when applicable. Apply at least 45 days before the examination under 21 NCAC 22A .0503.
Apprenticeship
Holds a permanent North Carolina audiologist license under G.S. 93D-5(c)(2). G.S. 93D-14(b) exempts a holder of a valid unrestricted audiologist license from compulsory licensure under Chapter 93D; this route applies if that person seeks a separate hearing aid specialist license.
Education
Education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school under G.S. 93D-5(a)(3).
License issuance
Pay the $25 certificate fee within ten business days of receiving exam results; non-apprentice applicants provide a North Carolina business street address and audiometer calibration with the application or within 90 days after passing, as stated in the November 2026 official announcement.
Minimum age
18 years or older under G.S. 93D-5(a)(2).
Moral character
Good moral character, established to the Board’s satisfaction under G.S. 93D-5(a)(1).
Previous ile pass
A previously passed ILE remains a leaf; an out-of-state, military-trained or military-spouse applicant may submit the IHS ILE score-transfer letter rather than retake Part D under 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3).
Score validity
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0107, Parts A–C expire 31 months after initial apprenticeship registration for an applicant completing the apprenticeship, or 19 months after the exam for exempt applicants or exams taken more than 31 months after initial registration. Part D results do not expire.
Reissuance after suspension: more than 90 days through two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application window
Apply after 90 days have expired and within two years after suspension.
Fee
Reissuance fee set by the Board, not exceeding $200.
Public welfare
Board must be satisfied that reissuance will not endanger public health and welfare; issuance is discretionary.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reissuance more than two years after suspension
Application window
Application is made more than two years after suspension.
Examination
G.S. 93D-13(b) directs reissuance under G.S. 93D-8; the Board implements that examination through Parts A, B, C and the ILE.
Prior ile
Previously passed ILE score remains a leaf and does not expire; applicable score-transfer provisions are retained.
Licensure by examination with supervised temporary audiologist waiver
Application
Duly made F4 license/exam-registration application, notarized affidavit, audiometer calibration, passport-style photo, background check and applicable fees; out-of-state applicants also provide F6/F7 documentation and IHS score transfer when applicable. Apply at least 45 days before the examination under 21 NCAC 22A .0503.
Apprenticeship
Holds a temporary North Carolina audiologist license and has completed 250 hours fitting or selling hearing aids under a Registered Sponsor’s direct supervision under G.S. 93D-5(c)(3). A valid unrestricted audiologist license is exempt from compulsory Chapter 93D licensure under G.S. 93D-14(b).
Education
Education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school under G.S. 93D-5(a)(3).
License issuance
Pay the $25 certificate fee within ten business days of receiving exam results; non-apprentice applicants provide a North Carolina business street address and audiometer calibration with the application or within 90 days after passing, as stated in the November 2026 official announcement.
Minimum age
18 years or older under G.S. 93D-5(a)(2).
Moral character
Good moral character, established to the Board’s satisfaction under G.S. 93D-5(a)(1).
Previous ile pass
A previously passed ILE remains a leaf; an out-of-state, military-trained or military-spouse applicant may submit the IHS ILE score-transfer letter rather than retake Part D under 21 NCAC 22F .0104(3).
Score validity
Under 21 NCAC 22F .0107, Parts A–C expire 31 months after initial apprenticeship registration for an applicant completing the apprenticeship, or 19 months after the exam for exempt applicants or exams taken more than 31 months after initial registration. Part D results do not expire.

Temporary Practice Permit

Military temporary authority while satisfying permanent-license requirements.

Licensing authority: North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board · Application information

Temporary practice permit for a military spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Uses the same information as the permanent-license application; statute directs issuance no later than 15 days after receipt.
Complaints
May be denied or revoked for a pending complaint after statutory notice.
Eligibility
A military spouse licensed, certified or registered in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards, while satisfying G.S. 93B-15.1(a) or (b).
Fees
No initial application fee under G.S. 93B-15.1(k).
Older board document
The Board-linked Military Endorsement instructions describe a supervised "military applicant certificate" expiring 30 days after exam results and at most seven months. The adopted March 1, 2018 .0123(d) and current statute instead expressly prescribe the temporary practice permit retained here; the older instruction is not used to create a second current credential.
Term
Valid for the later of one year or the profession’s required renewal date, or until a license is granted, in the words of G.S. 93B-15.1(f).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary practice permit for a military trained applicant
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Uses the same information as the permanent-license application; statute directs issuance no later than 15 days after receipt.
Complaints
May be denied or revoked for a pending complaint after statutory notice.
Eligibility
A military-trained applicant licensed, certified or registered in another jurisdiction with substantially equivalent standards, while satisfying G.S. 93B-15.1(a) or (b).
Fees
No initial application fee under G.S. 93B-15.1(k).
Older board document
The Board-linked Military Endorsement instructions describe a supervised "military applicant certificate" expiring 30 days after exam results and at most seven months. The adopted March 1, 2018 .0123(d) and current statute instead expressly prescribe the temporary practice permit retained here; the older instruction is not used to create a second current credential.
Term
Valid for the later of one year or the profession’s required renewal date, or until a license is granted, in the words of G.S. 93B-15.1(f).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Registered Sponsor Certificate

Certificate for a registered sponsor supervising an apprentice seeking licensure.

Licensing authority: North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board · Application information

Approval as a Registered Sponsor for a permanent hearing aid specialist licensee
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board lists F8 sponsor registration, F8 affidavit, photograph, calibration and verification where applicable; the $150 annual registration charge is identified by G.S. 93D-3(c)(14)g and .0501(3) for a sponsor not otherwise licensed under Chapter 93D.
Certificate
Obtain Board-issued Registered Sponsor Certificate before accepting any apprentice.
Duties
Perform sponsorship duties, assist with applications and reports, be responsible for apprentice conduct, and provide the personal/general supervision and training specified in .0302.
Permanent license
Holds this Board’s permanent license for at least two years before sponsoring an apprentice under .0302(a).
Supervision limits
At most one apprentice under personal supervision and one under general supervision at any time under .0302(e).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • chapter-22-rules.pdf

    21 NCAC 22F .0302, passage beginning (a) The registered sponsor shall obtain, ending before (b) In accepting

Part A: Hearing Test Simulator

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board
Format
Computer-simulated hearing test with audiogram recording
Time limit
60 minutes
Passing score
0 procedural errors and at most 4 recording errors; 1 and at most 3; or 2 and at most 2. Three procedural errors or five recording errors fail.
Examination sources

Part B: Ear Impression Practicum

Provider
North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board
Format
Live-model ear-impression procedure, candidate stock-impression questions and anatomy labeling, and professional evaluation of one selected impression
Passing score
At least 70/100 on both Procedure and Evaluation; specified omitted safety procedures cause automatic failure.
Examination outline
  • PROCEDURE: Safety Practices and Ear Impression Technique
    • Cleaned ALL instruments before use
    • Began instruction before performing the otoscopic exam
    • Began instruction before breaking the seal of the impression
    • Gloves were worn throughout the procedure
    • Perform a pre-impression otoscopic exam using an appropriate light source
    • Use appropriate bracing using the otoscope during the pre-impression otoscopic exam
    • Use appropriate bracing while initially inserting the otolight/penlight in the ear canal
    • Use appropriate bracing maintained while adjusting otoblock
    • Perform an otoscopic exam using an appropriate light source after inserting or adjusting the otoblock/cotton block in the model’s ear
    • Use appropriate bracing while using the otoscope during the otoscopic exam
    • Use appropriate bracing while initially inserting impression instrument into the ear canal
    • Appropriate bracing maintained while impression material fills the ear canal
    • Visibly determine the readiness of the impression material
    • Break the seal before removing the impression and otoblock
    • Perform a post-impression otoscopic exam using an appropriate light source
    • Use appropriate bracing while using the otoscope for the post-impression otoscopic exam
  • IMPRESSION EVALUATION: STOCK MOLD (SM)
    • Is the otoblock flush with the material at the medial end of the impression (canal end)?
    • Has the impression material seeped around the otoblock (blow-by)?
    • Is the impression of an adequate length to show the second bend of the ear canal?
    • Which ear is this an impression of?
    • Is the impression appropriate for a CIC hearing aid fitting?
  • IMPRESSION EVALUATION: Human Ear Anatomy Labeling
    • Helix
    • Triangular Fossa
    • Scaphoid Fossa
    • Antihelix
    • Helix Crus
    • External Auditory Canal
    • Concha
    • Tragus
    • Antitragus
    • Intertragal Notch
    • Lobe
  • IMPRESSION EVALUATION: PROFESSIONAL EVALUATION (PE)
    • Has the impression material started to seep around the otoblock?
    • Does the impression of the ear canal clearly show the beginning of the 2nd bend?
    • Is the concha adequately defined?
    • Is the tragus adequately defined?
    • Is the area between the tragus and helix adequately defined?
    • Is the helix adequately defined?
    • Are there any impression-taking anomalies, including but not limited to weld marks, located in critical regions of the impression? (i.e., concha, tragus, helix, and/or area between tragus and helix)
    • Is the impression adequate for a full-shell ear mold for an 80 db HL flat hearing-loss?
Examination sources

Part C: Laws and Regulations Multiple-Choice Examination

Provider
North Carolina State Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitters Board
Format
Multiple-choice examination
Exam questions
50 questions
Time limit
90 minutes
Passing score
70% correct (35/50)
Examination outline
  • Chapter 93D of the General Statutes of North Carolina
  • Title 21, North Carolina Administrative Code, Chapter 22
  • Federal Trade Commission Regulations: 16 CFR 429.0 and 429.1
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration Regulation: 21 CFR 801.422
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