Michigan Licensing Requirements for Hearing Aid Dispensers
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
Hearing Aid Dealer
- be at least 18 years of age
- be of good moral character
- have graduated from an accredited high school or secondary school
- have served as a hearing aid salesperson for a period of two years under the direction and supervision of a licensed hearing aid dealer
- have passed a written exam. The Department of Consumer and Industry Services may accept successful completion of the basic home study course conducted by the national hearing aid society in lieu of the written exam.
Hearing Aid Salesperson
- be at least 18 years of age
- be of good moral character
- have graduatee from an accredited high school or secondary school
- have successfully completed additional training and education as may be required by the Department of Consumer and Industry Services
- have passed a written exam
- have served at least six months as a trainee licensed by the Department of Consumer and Industry Services
Reciprocity
An applicant from another state who possesses a hearing aid license and has taken a written examination may waive portions of the Michigan examination if the Department of Consumer and Industry Services determines that the applicant's state has an equivalent examination to that of Michigan's.
Temporary Licensure
A trainee license will be issued to an applicant working for and under the direct supervision of a licensed dealer on the following conditions:
- The trainee license shall be valid for a 12-month period. A new trainee license may be issued by the board upon the filing of an application.
- The trainee license shall provide that the individual to whom it was issued shall work for and under the direction and supervision of a named licensed hearing aid dealer.
Continuing Education
There are no requirements for continuing education in the law/regulations.
Audiologist Dispensing
Audiologists may dispense under their audiology license.
Board Composition
The Board of Hearing Aid Dealers consist of six members who are qualified hearing aid dealers that have been actively engaged in the sale of hearing aids for at least 3 years. Not more than 2 members of the board shall be employees of, franchised by, or associated exclusively with, the same hearing aid manufacturer.
Trial Period
A hearing aid trial period is not addressed in the law/regulations.
Mail Order/Internet Sales
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:
Board of Hearing Aid Dealers Statutes [PDF]
Questions regarding state advocacy issues? Call ASHA at 800-498-2071 and ask for the State Advocacy Team.