Rhode Island 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
- Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age
- Be of good moral character
- Have an education equivalent to a four-year course in an accredited high school
- Be free of contagious or infectious disease
- Have passed a written and practical exam
Reciprocity
Whenever the Board determines that another state or jurisdiction has requirements equivalent to or higher than those in effect pursuant to the Act and that such state or jurisdiction has a program equivalent to or stricter than the program for determining whether applicants pursuant to the Act are qualified to dispense and fit hearing aids, the Department may issue certificates of endorsement to applicants who hold current, unsuspended and unrevoked certificates or licenses to fit and sell hearing aids in that other state or jurisdiction.
Continuing Education
There are no requirements for continuing education in the law/regulations.
Audiologist Dispensing
Audiologists may dispense under an audiology license.
Board Composition
The Hearing Aid Dealer and Fitter Board shall consist of three (3) hearing aid dealers and fitters; one otolaryngologist; one audiologist; and one lay member who shall be a user of hearing aids and not employed in the practice of fitting and dealing in hearing aids.
Facilities, Procedures and Instrumentation
Facilities, procedures and instrumentation are not addressed by law/regulations.
Trial Period
30 days from the date of delivery.
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 Dealer & Fitter Board Law
Hearing Aid Dealer & Fitter Regulations [PDF]
Questions regarding this document? Call ASHA at 800-498-2071 and ask for the State Advocacy Team.