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Kentucky Hearing Instrument Specialist — Requirements & Free Practice

US-KY · License preparation

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

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Apprentice Permit

Permit for supervised training to become a licensed specialist in hearing instruments; the post-training qualifying examination leads to the ordinary license.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Licensing Board for Specialists in Hearing Instruments · Application information

Apprentice permit extension after repeated written examination failure
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Extension Limit
Permit extension is no longer than two years from the second examination.
Renewal Fee
Pay the apprentice renewal fee under 201 KAR 7:015.
Training Stage
Revert to and remain in Stage II until passing the failed section.
Written Failure
Fail any written section twice; at least one of the two currently offered written examinations is involved.
Initial apprentice permit
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, photograph, health certificate, references and fee; do not practice before Board approval.
Qualifications
Apply under KRS 334.090(1) and satisfy the applicant qualifications referenced in KRS 334.050; the Board application requests age, education, health and character evidence.
Sponsor
Sponsor must sign the apprentice permit certification and assume responsibility; follow the training stages and supervision in KRS 334.090(2), (3), (6)-(8).
Subsequent License
The qualifying examination under KRS 334.090(4) follows apprenticeship and leads to an ordinary license; it is not a condition of initial permit issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 1996-07-15.

Apprentice permit by military credential recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, photograph, health certificate, references and fee; do not practice before Board approval.
Documentation
(2) The United States military service member, Reserves or National Guard member, veteran, or spouse shall submit: (a) Proof of issuance of a valid license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States that is active or has been expired for less than two (2) years; (b) Proof that the valid license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States is in good standing or was upon the date of expiration; and (c) 1. His or her DD-214 form or other proof of active or prior military service with an honorable discharge, discharge under honorable conditions, or a general discharge under honorable conditions; or 2. Military orders documenting his or her transfer to a military assignment in Kentucky.
Issuance Deadline
Issue within thirty days of a complete qualifying application.
Military Recognition
(1) An administrative body that issues a license, permit, certificate, or other document required to operate within a business, profession, or other occupation in the Commonwealth shall issue within thirty (30) days of receipt of a completed application a license, permit, certificate, or other document to a member of the United States military, Reserves, or National Guard, or to his or her spouse, or to a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, who is seeking a license, permit, certificate, or other document and currently holds or recently held equivalent documentation issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States unless: (a) The license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States has been expired for more than two (2) years; (b) The license, permit, certificate, or other documentation is not in good standing; (c) The holder of the license, permit, certificate, or other document has had the license, permit, certificate, or other document suspended for disciplinary reasons; or (d) The board can show substantive evidence of significant statutory deficiency in the training, education, or experience of the United States military service member, Reserves or National Guard member, veteran, or spouse, which could cause a health or safety risk to the public.
Qualifications
Apply under KRS 334.090(1) and satisfy the applicant qualifications referenced in KRS 334.050; the Board application requests age, education, health and character evidence.
Sponsor
Sponsor must sign the apprentice permit certification and assume responsibility; follow the training stages and supervision in KRS 334.090(2), (3), (6)-(8).
Subsequent License
The qualifying examination under KRS 334.090(4) follows apprenticeship and leads to an ordinary license; it is not a condition of initial permit issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2024-07-15.

Apprentice permit based on qualifying military training
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, photograph, health certificate, references and fee; do not practice before Board approval.
Military Credit
Board discretion under KRS 12.354; military training must satisfy applicable permit qualifications.
Military Eligibility
KRS 12.354(2): qualifying military discharge within two years before application; military training, education or experience satisfying Board requirements; submit DD 214 or satisfactory military training proof.
Qualifications
Apply under KRS 334.090(1) and satisfy the applicant qualifications referenced in KRS 334.050; the Board application requests age, education, health and character evidence.
Sponsor
Sponsor must sign the apprentice permit certification and assume responsibility; follow the training stages and supervision in KRS 334.090(2), (3), (6)-(8).
Subsequent License
The qualifying examination under KRS 334.090(4) follows apprenticeship and leads to an ordinary license; it is not a condition of initial permit issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2017-06-29.

Renewal of apprentice permit after qualifying examination failure
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Examination Evidence
The currently offered qualifying examinations already taken remain leaves; failure is an applicant condition. Retake only the failed sections.
Permit Held
Hold an apprentice permit and have taken and failed the qualifying examination.
Renewal Discretion
KRS 334.090(5): the Board may renew the permit; pay the renewal and reexamination fees.

Specialist in Hearing Instruments License

Individual license for fitting and dealing in hearing instruments in Kentucky.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Licensing Board for Specialists in Hearing Instruments · Application information

Renewal while on active military duty
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Protected Renewal
KRS 12.355: renew without dues, fees or other typically required renewal acts; continuing education relief applies when military duties prevent training and a waiver is requested, or the occupation is performed in military duties documented by DD 214.
Protection Term
Continue the license throughout active duty and at least six months after discharge.
Standing At Activation
At activation, be duly licensed and in good standing with the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2011-06-08.

Annual license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Calibration
201 KAR 7:070 Section 2(1): certificate of audiometric calibration completed within the twelve months before the renewal application.
Continuing Education
201 KAR 7:075: ten hours annually, at least five from listed sponsors in live classroom presentations; no carryover; first-issuance calendar year is exempt; Board may grant annual deferral for illness, incapacity or similar circumstances. Keep records for three years.
Fee
Pay the applicable annual renewal or late-renewal fee.
No Examination
KRS 334.110 prohibits requiring an examination for renewal applications within two years after expiration.
Renewal Deadline
KRS 334.110: annual renewal on or before January 30; a thirty-day grace period carries a late fee and penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2010-12-15.

Renewal of an expired license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Calibration
201 KAR 7:070 Section 2(1): certificate of audiometric calibration completed within the twelve months before the renewal application.
Continuing Education
201 KAR 7:075: ten hours annually, at least five from listed sponsors in live classroom presentations; no carryover; first-issuance calendar year is exempt; Board may grant annual deferral for illness, incapacity or similar circumstances. Keep records for three years.
Expired License
Apply within two years from expiration; renewal after the grace period is subject to Board discretion and the additional fee. An expired license does not authorize practice.
Fee
Pay the applicable annual renewal or late-renewal fee.
No Examination
KRS 334.110 prohibits requiring an examination for renewal applications within two years after expiration.
Renewal Deadline
KRS 334.110: annual renewal on or before January 30; a thirty-day grace period carries a late fee and penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 1994-02-10.

Licensure by examination after apprenticeship
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Exam Timing
Take the first qualifying examination scheduled after completing apprenticeship.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Sponsor
KRS 334.090(8): sponsor must meet the stated licensure, experience, NBC-HIS certification or pre-1993 license alternatives; maximum two apprentices; sponsor responsible for sales, service and monetary reimbursements. NBC-HIS certification is the sponsor qualification, not an applicant NCE requirement.
Training
KRS 334.090: twelve continuous months: Stage I 30 days without fitting/testing, Stage II 150 days under direct supervision, Stage III 180 days under a licensed sponsor. A Board-approved course may substitute for Stages I and II. Unauthorized departure may forfeit seniority and require return to Stage I.
Licensure by military or veteran credential recognition
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Military Recognition
KRS 12.245(1) states: (1) An administrative body that issues a license, permit, certificate, or other document required to operate within a business, profession, or other occupation in the Commonwealth shall issue within thirty (30) days of receipt of a completed application a license, permit, certificate, or other document to a member of the United States military, Reserves, or National Guard, or to his or her spouse, or to a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, who is seeking a license, permit, certificate, or other document and currently holds or recently held equivalent documentation issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States unless: (a) The license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States has been expired for more than two (2) years; (b) The license, permit, certificate, or other documentation is not in good standing; (c) The holder of the license, permit, certificate, or other document has had the license, permit, certificate, or other document suspended for disciplinary reasons; or (d) The board can show substantive evidence of significant statutory deficiency in the training, education, or experience of the United States military service member, Reserves or National Guard member, veteran, or spouse, which could cause a health or safety risk to the public. This mandatory issuance provision lists recognition criteria without an examination demand; KRS 334.080(2) retains successful examination for reciprocity. Under the contract's same-rank rule the registered qualifying examinations remain leaves and this recognition provision is preserved for the applicant to present to the Board.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
Prior Jurisdiction Examinations
Proof supporting an existing license or permit, including another jurisdiction's own examinations, is an applicant condition.
Recognition Deadline
Issue within thirty days after a complete application; statutory disqualifications and compact limitation apply.
Recognition Documents
(2) The United States military service member, Reserves or National Guard member, veteran, or spouse shall submit: (a) Proof of issuance of a valid license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States that is active or has been expired for less than two (2) years; (b) Proof that the valid license, permit, certificate, or other document issued by another state, the District of Columbia, or any possession or territory of the United States is in good standing or was upon the date of expiration; and (c) 1. His or her DD-214 form or other proof of active or prior military service with an honorable discharge, discharge under honorable conditions, or a general discharge under honorable conditions; or 2. Military orders documenting his or her transfer to a military assignment in Kentucky.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Expedited regular licensure for a military spouse
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Electronic Fees
KRS 12.357(4): if an electronic application requires payment, refund eligible fees within thirty days; regular applications must be submitted before the applicable deadline.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Expedited Issuance
KRS 12.357(1): issuance within thirty days without dues or fees.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Military Spouse
Provide proof of marriage to a current Armed Forces member, valid professional license from an eligible United States jurisdiction, and the spouse's assignment to a Kentucky duty station.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Statutory Qualifications
KRS 12.357(1) requires meeting the Board's statutory requirements; qualifying examination requirements under KRS 334.050 to 334.080 are retained.
Regular license renewal for a military spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Calibration
201 KAR 7:070 Section 2(1): certificate of audiometric calibration completed within the twelve months before the renewal application.
Continuing Education
201 KAR 7:075: ten hours annually, at least five from listed sponsors in live classroom presentations; no carryover; first-issuance calendar year is exempt; Board may grant annual deferral for illness, incapacity or similar circumstances. Keep records for three years.
Fee
Pay the applicable annual renewal or late-renewal fee.
Fee Relief
KRS 12.357(4): issue or renew without dues or fees; refund required electronic application fees within thirty days.
Military Spouse
Spouse of a current Armed Forces member; satisfy statutory renewal requirements and apply in the prescribed format before the regular deadline.
No Examination
KRS 334.110 prohibits requiring an examination for renewal applications within two years after expiration.
Renewal Deadline
KRS 334.110: annual renewal on or before January 30; a thirty-day grace period carries a late fee and penalty.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2022-07-14.

Licensure based on qualifying military training
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Discretion
The Board may issue regular or temporary licensure and may refuse where military training or experience fails to satisfy its requirements.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Exam Substitution
KRS 12.354(5) expressly prohibits substituting military training or experience for a prerequisite postsecondary degree or specified examination.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Military Eligibility
KRS 12.354(2): qualifying military discharge within two years before application; military training, education or experience satisfying Board requirements; submit DD 214 or satisfactory military training proof.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Licensure for a qualified audiologist
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Audiology Qualification
KRS 334.080(3): either hold a master's degree in audiology and a license under KRS Chapter 334A, or at least a master's degree from a recognized college or university and ASHA certification of clinical competence in audiology.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Training Waiver
No training or other procedures beyond fees and successful examination under KRS 334.050 to 334.070; the audiology license and ASHA certification are applicant qualifications, not this profession's examinations.
Licensure by reciprocity
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Existing License
Hold a current, unsuspended and unrevoked license from a jurisdiction whose licensing requirements and qualification program the Board finds equivalent or stricter.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Training Waiver
KRS 334.080(2) waives additional training and other procedures; fees and successful examination remain required. Existing examinations of another jurisdiction are applicant evidence, not Kentucky examination leaves.
Reinstatement of a revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Investigation
The Board investigates and may reinstate only upon finding compliance with any terms it prescribed and renewed ability to practice fitting hearing instruments.
Board Terms
KRS 334.180(1) does not identify an examination; case-specific terms are applicant conditions, not an invented examination leaf.
Petition
A person whose license has been revoked may petition the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 1992-07-14.

Temporary License

Temporary licensure authorized for qualified military service members or veterans under KRS 12.354 and for qualified military spouses under KRS 12.357; the spouse temporary license expires six months after issuance and cannot be renewed.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Licensing Board for Specialists in Hearing Instruments · Application information

Temporary licensure for a military spouse
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Electronic Fees
KRS 12.357(4): if an electronic application requires payment, refund eligible fees within thirty days; regular applications must be submitted before the applicable deadline.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Expedited Issuance
KRS 12.357(1): issuance within thirty days without dues or fees.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Military Spouse
Provide proof of marriage to a current Armed Forces member, valid professional license from an eligible United States jurisdiction, and the spouse's assignment to a Kentucky duty station.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.
Statutory Qualifications
KRS 12.357(1) requires meeting the Board's statutory requirements; qualifying examination requirements under KRS 334.050 to 334.080 are retained.
Temporary Term
KRS 12.357(3): expires six months after issuance and is not renewable.
Temporary licensure based on qualifying military training
Age
KRS 334.050(2): twenty-one years of age or older.
Application
Submit the Board application and required fees; approval is required before practicing.
Board Discretion
The Board may issue regular or temporary licensure and may refuse where military training or experience fails to satisfy its requirements.
Board Written Implementation
February 8 and April 11, 2024 Board minutes accept the ILE passing score for written earmold and audiology/audiometry, retaining practical testing. April minutes state: Mr. Patrick presented to the board the resolution to omit the examinations of written earmold and written audiometry and reflect that examination from their national ILE exam. Mr. Clark mentioned the resolution looked great, except place written in front of the earmold and audiometry exams for no confusion since there will still be practical portions for both subjects. Mr. Patrick will correct the document to add written. The current 201 KAR 7:040 Section 3(2) still lists ear molds and audiometry, so the published state written outline retains both.
Character
KRS 334.050(1): good moral character.
Education
KRS 334.050(3): high school diploma or general education development certificate.
Exam Equipment
201 KAR 7:040 Section 2: two forms of identification (one photo), audiometer capable of air, bone and speech testing, calibration proof, audiogram, earmold materials, human subject, case history sheet and otoscope.
Exam Substitution
KRS 12.354(5) expressly prohibits substituting military training or experience for a prerequisite postsecondary degree or specified examination.
Health
KRS 334.050(5) and 201 KAR 7:020: free of contagious or infectious disease; furnish a physician statement.
Immigration
KRS 334.050(4): United States citizenship or legal alien status.
Military Eligibility
KRS 12.354(2): qualifying military discharge within two years before application; military training, education or experience satisfying Board requirements; submit DD 214 or satisfactory military training proof.
Passing Scores
201 KAR 7:040 Section 4: seventy percent on each section; retake sections failed.
References
201 KAR 7:020 Section 1(3) and the application: furnish references, age verification and supporting information requested by the Board.

Qualifying Examination — Practical Examination

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Kentucky Licensing Board for Specialists in Hearing Instruments
Format
Practical demonstration of ear impressions, audiometric testing and defective hearing instruments
Passing score
70 percent on each section; failed sections must be retaken.
Examination outline
  • Ear impressions
  • Audiometric testing
    • Pure tone audiometry, including air conduction testing and bone conduction testing
    • Speech audiometry, including live voice or recorded voice speech evaluations which include speech reception threshold testing, most comfortable listening level, loudness discomfort level, and speech discrimination testing
    • Masking when indicated
    • Recording and evaluation of audiograms and speech audiometry to determine proper selection and adaption of a hearing instrument
  • Defective hearing instruments
Examination sources

Qualifying Examination — Written Examination

Provider
Kentucky Licensing Board for Specialists in Hearing Instruments
Format
Written examination
Passing score
70 percent on each section; failed sections must be retaken.
Examination outline
  • Written examination on Kentucky law, rules, conduct, ear molds, and audiometry
    • The provisions of KRS Chapter 334 relating to specialists in hearing instruments
    • The provisions of administrative regulations governing the practice of specialists in hearing instruments, codified in 201 KAR Chapter 7
    • Conduct required or prohibited by KRS 334.120, 334.130, and the code of ethics established by 201 KAR 7:090
    • Ear molds
    • Audiometry
Examination sources

International Licensing Examination for Hearing Healthcare Professionals

Provider
International Hearing Society (IHS); scheduled and paid through the TestWise system at testing centers
Format
Practice-based computer-delivered multiple-choice examination; most questions present a scenario; a few questions require selecting two (or three) correct answers to earn one point; dichotomous right/wrong scoring
Exam questions
105 multiple-choice questions: 80 scored and 25 unscored pilot questions
Time limit
120 minutes (two hours)
Passing score
Pass/Fail on the overall raw score against the IHS-recommended passing score; the licensing agency makes the final decision
Exam fee
$260.00 (USD) per examination appointment, including re-takes, plus applicable taxes
Examination outline
  • Domain 1. Conduct Patient/Client Assessment (21%) (21%)
    • Objective 1.1 Apply infection control protocols (5%). Includes but is not limited to choosing appropriate infection control processes for tools and equipment; observing universal precautions for infection control; distinguishing between single- and multiple-use items; differentiating among sanitization, disinfection and sterilization processes; and identifying personal protective equipment.
    • Objective 1.2 Apply otoscopic inspection protocols (5%). Includes but is not limited to observing safety protocols during otoscopy; identifying anatomical structures; identifying abnormalities through otoscopic inspection; and recognizing the presence of referral criteria. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform otoscopy.
    • Objective 1.3 Utilize audiometric testing protocols (11%). Includes but is not limited to performing air and bone conduction threshold and suprathreshold testing; performing speech audiometry; performing effective masking; and applying principles to include interpreting results of tympanometry/immittance audiometry. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform audiometric testing and application of tympanometry.
  • Domain 2. Interpret and Apply Assessment Results (22%) (22%)
    • Objective 2.1 Interpret and explain audiometric results (11%). Includes but is not limited to demonstrating an understanding of referral criteria; interpreting pure tone and speech testing results; identifying the need for additional testing; identifying the degree and configuration of hearing loss; and identifying the type of hearing loss.
    • Objective 2.2 Determine candidacy for amplification (11%). Includes but is not limited to interpreting the case history and outlining contraindications to hearing instrument use.
  • Domain 3. Select Hearing Devices (18%) (18%)
    • Objective 3.1 Select style and type of hearing instruments (9%). Includes but is not limited to establishing fitting goals and selecting specific hearing instruments based on test results, case history, and individual patient/client preferences and lifestyle; selecting electroacoustic and physical properties; and evaluating the need for accessory devices.
    • Objective 3.2 Select earmold or other acoustic coupler (9%). Includes but is not limited to assessing physical properties of the outer ear, taking ear impressions, critiquing ear impressions, and selecting coupler based on patient/client needs.
  • Domain 4. Fit and Dispense Hearing Devices (20%) (20%)
    • Objective 4.1 Utilize protocols to fit hearing instruments and other devices (10%). Includes but is not limited to confirming physical and acoustic integrity of hearing devices; programming and adjusting hearing devices; verifying physical fit and acoustic comfort; orienting patient/client to hearing instruments; and orienting patient/client to assistive devices. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to program and dispense hearing instruments and other devices.
    • Objective 4.2 Verify fitting (5%). Includes but is not limited to selecting verification method based on patient/client; assessing physical and acoustic integrity of hearing devices; interpreting and explaining verification results; and modifying physical and acoustic parameters of device. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform fitting verification (e.g., speech mapping, REM).
    • Objective 4.3 Validate fitting (5%). Includes but is not limited to selecting validation method based on patient/client; interpreting and explaining validation results; and modifying physical and acoustic parameters of device. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to perform fitting validation (e.g., questionnaire, self-assessment).
  • Domain 5. Provide Continuing Care (19%) (19%)
    • Objective 5.1 Implement aural rehabilitation and counseling (8%). Includes but is not limited to demonstrating an understanding of the psychology of the hearing impaired; defining and managing patient/client expectations for improved communication; defining and managing family/caregiver expectations for improved communication; and identifying communication strategies.
    • Objective 5.2 Apply instrument maintenance and troubleshooting protocols (9%). Includes but is not limited to employing hearing instrument cleaning procedures; performing listening checks on hearing instruments; troubleshooting acoustic properties of hearing instruments; and adjusting based upon changes in patient/client hearing loss and/or listening needs. This objective helps provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to maintain and troubleshoot instrument performance.
    • Objective 5.3 Interpret electroacoustic analysis results (2%). Includes but is not limited to identifying need for electroacoustic analysis and comparing electroacoustic analysis of patient’s/client’s hearing instruments to fitting specifications.
Examination sources