Hearing Aid Dealers and Fitting Licensing Board
Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Trainees

1. Is a trainee permit a license?
    

   No. A trainee permit allows you to fit and sell hearing aids under the supervision of a licensed hearing aid dealer. You must pass the written and performance examinations before you can be issued a license.

2. What should my supervisor be doing for me as a trainee?
    

   The duties of the supervisor are outlined in Section 4747-1-14 of the Ohio Administrative Code. You should read the law and rules and discuss them with your supervisor.

3. Does my supervisor have to be with me at all times?
    

   The supervisor must accompany you for the first thirty days, after that he/she must review an co-sign all documents and tests related to the fitting and sale of any hearing aid.

4. How long can I be a trainee?
    

   Your trainee permit is good for one year, and can be renewed one time.

5. When can I take the examination?
    

   You can take the examination anytime, however, if you do not have a trainee permit you can not fit or sell hearing aids until you become licensed.

6. How do I prepare for the examination?
    

   When your trainee permit is issued you are provided with information about the study materials. You can also review at that information under the Examination section on this web site.

7. Can I transfer my permit to another supervisor?
    

   If you transfer supervisors you must submit a new application containing the new supervisors signature. A duplicate permit will be issued with the new supervisor’s name. The application fee for a duplicate permit is $16.00, and the check should be payable to Treasurer, State of Ohio.

8. What if my permit expires and I have not passed the examination?
    

   If you have only had your permit for one year you can renew that permit for one more year. If your permit has been renewed one time you can still take the examination, but you can not fit and sell hearing aids until you become licensed.

9. What if I have lost my permit?
    

   If you lose your permit submit a new application to the Board for a duplicate permit. The application must be accompanied with a check or money order, payable to the Treasure, State of Ohio, in the amount of $16.00.

10. How long does it take to process my application?
     

    Generally, trainee permits are issued within a few days of receipt of the application. Delays are caused if the application is not notarized, it is not signed by the supervisor, there is no physician statement, or the proper fee is not with the application.
     

Last Updated: 9/25/03