Delaware Hearing Aid Dispensing Requirements

The profession of hearing aid dispenser is regulated at the state level and each state maintains its own standards for licensure or registration.

Initial Licensure Requirements

• Met the current standards promulgated by the National Institute for Hearing Instrument Studies or its successor
• Have a high school diploma or its equivalent
• Complete 6 months of training prior to taking the examination
• Passed a written and practical exam
• Provide notarized signature of Delaware-licensed hearing aid dispenser sponsor providing direct supervision and training of applicant

Reciprocity

The Board shall grant a license to an applicant who:

• Presents proof of current licensure in "good standing" in another state, whose standards for licensure are substantially similar to those of this State; or
• Is licensed or registered in a state whose standards are not substantially similar to those of this State must have practiced for a minimum of 5 years after licensure.

Continuing Education

Individuals must obtain a minimum of 30 CEs each two-year license renewal period.

Audiologist Dispensing

Audiologists may dispense under an audiology license.

Board Composition

The Board of Speech-Language Pathologists, Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers consists of 9 members, appointed by the Governor, who are residents of this State: 3 must be licensed speech-language pathologists; 2 must be licensed audiologists, 1 must be a licensed hearing aid dispenser, and 3 public members.

Facilities, Procedures and Instrumentation

Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers shall ensure the annual calibration of the electronic equipment they use to assess hearing. Calibration shall be performed by a certified professional consistent with the standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Trial Period

A hearing aid trial period is not addressed in the law/regulations.

Mail Order

Mail order dispensing is not addressed in the law/regulations.

Resources

The information contained herein was collected and summarized annually. For detailed information on hearing aid dispenser requirements, contact the state board and visit these websites:

Hearing Aid Dispenser Licensing

Hearing Aid Dispenser Law

Hearing Aid Dispenser Regulations

Questions regarding this document? Call ASHA at 800-498-2071 and ask for the State Advocacy Team.