General Licensing Information

There are three ways in which one can become licensed as a hearing aid dispenser -- ALL of them include taking and passing the written and practical examinations. Please read the following information and determine under which option you will apply.

OPTION 1 - You may submit your completed application package, take the written and practical examinations, and become licensed upon passing the exams and submitting the fee for a permanent license, WITHOUT receiving a temporary license. This option requires the submission of the following completed forms:

• Hearing Aid Dispenser License Application
• Completed second copy of "Request for Live Scan Service"* or two fingerprint cards
• Appropriate fees (See Fee Schedule)

OPTION 2 - You may obtain a temporary-trainee license under B&P Code Section 3357 with proof that you will be supervised by a licensee who has been licensed in California for at least 3 years. You may not work until your application is approved and you receive the license. You are required to take the written examination within 10 months from the issue date of the license. Prior to taking the exams, 20% direct supervision is required. If you fail either the written or practical examination, you must be supervised 100% of the time. This option requires submission of the following completed forms:

• Hearing Aid Dispenser License Application
• Completed second copy of "Request for Live Scan Service"* or two fingerprint cards
• Temporary-Trainee License Application Addendum (Carefully read #6 on the form)
• Application to Supervise a Trainee (Completed by your supervisor)
• Appropriate fees (See Fee Schedule)

OPTION 3 - You may obtain a temporary license under B&P Code Section 3356 if you are licensed in another state to dispense hearing aids and have dispensed hearing aids for the two years immediately preceding submission of your application. The license enables you to practice while you take the exams, is valid for one year, and is not renewable. If you fail either the written or practical examination, you must obtain a supervisor under the provisions of B&P Code Section 3357 and be supervised 100% of the time if you wish to continue dispensing hearing aids until you pass the exam. This option requires submission of the following completed forms/information:

• Hearing Aid Dispenser License Application
• Completed second copy of "Request for Live Scan Service"* or two fingerprint cards
• License verification from the state licensing agency. This must be an official certification (no photo copies will be accepted) from the licensing body, and include any disciplinary action and the dates of such action.
• Documentation from your employer stating your dates of employment and a description of your duties. If you were self-employed, you may submit a notarized personal statement.
• Appropriate fees (See Fee Schedule)

You may include payment for all relevant fees in one check. Make your check or money order payable to the Hearing Aid Dispensers Bureau (HADB). Do not send cash.

*See Live Scan Fingerprint Information and Procedures Fact Sheet