4 answers
Valerie
Student
Englewood, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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What are the steps I first need to take to become licensed to be a Hearing Aid Specialist ?
I have had zero college but have been a straight A student at a privileged high school. I have been a caregiver all my life and have a passion for taking care of elderly being a home caregiver. But now I want a higher paying job, which I thought hearing aid specialist would be perfect for me being that I’m going to be dealing with caregivers and the elderly. Besides speaking English, I’m also fluent in Spanish. Living in Denver, Colorado, there is also a need for Spanish speaking services. How do I get started without going back to a University/College?
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4 answers
Jackie Cooper
Hearing aid dispenser
1
Answer
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
A hearing aid dispenser license is a state license.
Since your profile says "Colorado", I researched that state's process.
Go to dpo.colorado.gov/hearingaid
Select "Apply for a New License"
There you will find a pretty comprehensive guide through the licensing process.
It looks like you can apprentice under someone then take your exams.
Since your profile says "Colorado", I researched that state's process.
Go to dpo.colorado.gov/hearingaid
Select "Apply for a New License"
There you will find a pretty comprehensive guide through the licensing process.
It looks like you can apprentice under someone then take your exams.
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Valerie
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Valerie,
It is great to hear that you have a lot of experience in something that you are trying to pursue a career in. In order to gain the position you desire, see if a degree is required. If not, you can start to volunteer or intern with a hearing air specialist. The place you work at now might have some in house and if not might be able to put you in contact with someone who can help. Tell them you are looking to learn and that you have some experience. Be sure to send your resume and cover letter sharing your story, passion, skills, and eagerness to learn. Reach out by email first, then if not by phone, then if not in person. If you get enough experience, there is a chance you can work for them in the future. If not, you can take that experience elsewhere for work.
It is great to hear that you have a lot of experience in something that you are trying to pursue a career in. In order to gain the position you desire, see if a degree is required. If not, you can start to volunteer or intern with a hearing air specialist. The place you work at now might have some in house and if not might be able to put you in contact with someone who can help. Tell them you are looking to learn and that you have some experience. Be sure to send your resume and cover letter sharing your story, passion, skills, and eagerness to learn. Reach out by email first, then if not by phone, then if not in person. If you get enough experience, there is a chance you can work for them in the future. If not, you can take that experience elsewhere for work.
Thank you for your insight and reminding me that utilizing my resources is important! ;-)
Valerie
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Valerie,
A hearing specialist is a licensed professional who evaluates hearing issues and fits hearing aids. They usually work in retail clinics and focus on common adult hearing loss but can't diagnose medical conditions related to hearing. That's what audiologists do. Audiologists can identify, assess, and treat hearing and balance disorders. They also fit hearing aids, program cochlear implants, and offer communication help.
SEE https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/hearing-aid-specialist-training
Those who want to become hearing aid specialist fitters can pursue an associate's degree in Hearing Instrument Sciences or complete a specialized certificate program, which typically takes 1-2 years. Many states also require a supervised apprenticeship, often lasting 6-12 months, before candidates can sit for licensure exams.
Take care!
A hearing specialist is a licensed professional who evaluates hearing issues and fits hearing aids. They usually work in retail clinics and focus on common adult hearing loss but can't diagnose medical conditions related to hearing. That's what audiologists do. Audiologists can identify, assess, and treat hearing and balance disorders. They also fit hearing aids, program cochlear implants, and offer communication help.
SEE https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/hearing-aid-specialist-training
Those who want to become hearing aid specialist fitters can pursue an associate's degree in Hearing Instrument Sciences or complete a specialized certificate program, which typically takes 1-2 years. Many states also require a supervised apprenticeship, often lasting 6-12 months, before candidates can sit for licensure exams.
Take care!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
480
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Valerie - it is great that you want to expand on your caregiving experience. With the Baby Boomers aging, there surely will be a need for hearing aid specialists.
The first link below gives general information about becoming a hearing aid specialist. The two routes seem to be getting an associates degree, which could be two years of study, or becoming an apprentice. If you choose the apprenticeship route, which should take 6-12 months, be sure you are with a program recognized by your state. Also be sure that it provides enough content to help you pass the licensing exam.
The second link for the State of Colorado has further information about your state with links to further information. The third link provides general information about hearing aid specialist salaries in your region.
I hope the helps - good luck!
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/hearing-aid-specialist-training
State of Colorado - https://dpo.colorado.gov/HearingAid/Applications
Glassdoor salary info - https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/denver-hearing-aid-specialist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IM234_KO7,29.htm
The first link below gives general information about becoming a hearing aid specialist. The two routes seem to be getting an associates degree, which could be two years of study, or becoming an apprentice. If you choose the apprenticeship route, which should take 6-12 months, be sure you are with a program recognized by your state. Also be sure that it provides enough content to help you pass the licensing exam.
The second link for the State of Colorado has further information about your state with links to further information. The third link provides general information about hearing aid specialist salaries in your region.
I hope the helps - good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Valerie
You're welcome!
Martha Kramer
I really liked the links you've attached and have already started looking into each! Thank you
Valerie