Oklahoma 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
- be at least 18 years of age
- be of good moral character. A criminal record shall not in itself bar an applicant from licensing, but evidence of such record may be considered along with other information in determining whether or not the applicant is of good moral character.
- have an education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school
- have passed a written and practical exam
Reciprocity
Whenever the state Commissioner of Health determines that another state or jurisdiction has requirements equivalent to or higher than those in effect pursuant to these regulations, and that such state or jurisdiction has a program equivalent to or stricter than the program for determining whether applicants pursuant to these regulations are qualified to dispense and fit hearing aids, the Commissioner may issue a license to applicants who hold current, unsuspended, and unrevoked certificates or licenses to fit and sell hearing aids in such other state or jurisdiction.
Temporary Licensure
An applicant who fulfills the requirements regarding age and character shall be entitled to a temporary hearing aid dealer or fitter permit, which shall entitle the applicant to engage in the fitting and sale of hearing aids for a period not to exceed six months or until the holder has successfully passed the examination required for a license, whichever period is less. A person holding a valid Oklahoma Hearing Aid Dealers' and Fitters' License shall be responsible for the direct supervision and training of such applicant and maintain adequate personal contact. The Commissioner shall not extend a temporary permit more than one time.
Continuing Education
Each applicant for renewal of a hearing aid dealer or fitter license must submit written evidence showing he/she has completed 10 clock hours of continuing education, completed during the previous year and pertaining to the hearing sciences, as approved by the National Institute of Hearing Instruments Studies or an equivalent, or have had the curriculum approved by the Department of Health.
Audiologist Dispensing
Audiologists may dispense under an audiology license.
Board Composition
The Hearing Aid Advisory Council shall consist of seven members consisting of four hearing aid dealers and fitters, one otolaryngologist who is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology or is eligible for such certification, one audiologist, and one lay member.
Trial Period
30 days from date of delivery
Mail Order/Internet Sales
Mail order dispensing and Internet sales are 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 Dealer and Fitter Statute [PDF]
Hearing Aid Dealer and Fitter Regulations [PDF]
Questions regarding state advocacy issues? Call ASHA at 800-498-2071 and ask for the State Advocacy Team.