CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

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CAOHC Practice Test

Updated for November 2026
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Becoming a CAOHC Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) is a significant step for professionals dedicated to preventing noise-induced hearing loss in the workplace. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the CAOHC Exam format to effective CAOHC Training strategies. Whether you are seeking initial CAOHC Certification or preparing for CAOHC Recertification, our resources are designed to help you succeed on your first attempt.

Our guide includes a complete CAOHC Study Guide, interactive practice questions, and detailed information on CAOHC Certification Courses. We break down the complex requirements for NIOSH and CAOHC Training, ensuring you understand the critical components of a hearing conservation program. With the right preparation, passing the CAOHC Test becomes a manageable and rewarding goal for aspiring CAOHC Professional Supervisor candidates and technicians alike.

The CAOHC Certification is the gold standard for Occupational Hearing Conservationists (OHCs). It verifies that you have the knowledge and skills to conduct audiometric testing, fit hearing protection, and educate workers about noise hazards. Successful candidates often combine Online CAOHC Training with hands-on practice to master the CAOHC Hearing Conservation Manual concepts. Practice with the free CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (7 questions with answer explanations).

  • The CAOHC initial certification exam consists of 50 questions.[1]
  • The CAOHC recertification exam consists of 30 questions.[1]
  • The CAOHC initial certification exam has a time limit of 75 minutes.[1]
  • The CAOHC recertification exam has a time limit of 45 minutes.[1]
  • A passing score of 70% or higher is required to pass the CAOHC certification exam.[1]
  • Registration fees for the CAOHC course and exam vary by location and Course Director.[2]
  • Course Directors may charge a proctoring fee to retake the CAOHC exam.[1]
  • Candidates may retake the CAOHC exam up to two times within 30-day windows, and must retake the entire course if they fail three times.[1]
  • The CAOHC certification expiration date is set for 5 years from the date of course completion.[3]

Numbers in brackets link to the official sources listed under Sources & last verified. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.

CAOHC Exam at a Glance

ItemDetailSource · Verified
Number of questions (Initial certification)50 questions[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Number of questions (Recertification)30 questions[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Time limit (Initial certification)75 minutes[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Time limit (Recertification)45 minutes[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Passing score70% or higher[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Exam feeVaries by location and Course Director[2]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Retake feeCourse Director may charge a proctoring fee[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Retake policyUp to 2 retakes (3 total attempts) within 30-day windows; full course retake after 3 fails[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Validity5 years from course completion date[3]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
RenewalEvery 5 years via 8-hour recertification course and exam[4]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
DeliveryOnline exam in the CAOHC Learning Center on the course's final day, plus practical exams during the course[3]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
EligibilityNo prerequisites; complete CAOHC-approved 20-hour course and pass exam[2]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Score releaseImmediate score upon submission; official results via email within 48 business hours[1]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026
Registration opensRegister directly with Course Director; CAOHC does not manage registration[2]Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation · Oct 27, 2026

What changed for CAOHC in 2026

Free CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Study Tools

Interactive CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:

According to Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation, “For initial certifications, the exam is 75 minutes and consists of 50 questions.”[1]

CAOHC Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

CAOHC Audiogram Review and STS
CAOHC Exam Questions covering Audiogram Review and STS. Master CAOHC Test concepts for certification prep.
CAOHC Audiometric Testing Procedures
CAOHC Mock Exam on Audiometric Testing Procedures. CAOHC Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.
CAOHC Federal Regulations and Standards
CAOHC Questions and Answers on Federal Regulations and Standards. Free CAOHC practice for exam readiness.
CAOHC Hearing Conservation Programs
Free CAOHC Quiz on Hearing Conservation Programs. CAOHC Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.
CAOHC Hearing Protection Device Fitting
CAOHC Practice Questions for Hearing Protection Device Fitting. Build confidence for your CAOHC certification exam.
CAOHC Hearing Protection Devices
CAOHC Test Online for Hearing Protection Devices. Free practice with instant results and feedback.
CAOHC Medical Referral Criteria and Follow-up
CAOHC Study Material on Medical Referral Criteria and Follow-up. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.
CAOHC Noise Measurement and Control
Free CAOHC Test covering Noise Measurement and Control. Practice and track your CAOHC exam readiness.
CAOHC Occupational Hearing Loss
CAOHC Exam Questions covering Occupational Hearing Loss. Master CAOHC Test concepts for certification prep.
CAOHC Physics of Sound and Anatomy
CAOHC Test Prep for Physics of Sound and Anatomy. Practice CAOHC Quiz questions and boost your score.
CAOHC Recordkeeping and Program Management
CAOHC Mock Test covering Recordkeeping and Program Management. Online CAOHC Test practice with instant feedback.
CAOHC Worker Training and Education
CAOHC Practice Questions for Worker Training and Education. Build confidence for your CAOHC certification exam.
CAOHC Workplace Safety
CAOHC Test Online for Workplace Safety. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

Worked examples: how to reason through CAOHC questions

These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.

Example 1

Question: How do reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to chemical ototoxicity?

  1. Ototoxic chemicals generate ROS that damage cochlear cell membranes and DNA
  2. ROS protect hair cells from chemical damage
  3. ROS are only produced by noise, not chemicals
  4. ROS improve blood flow to the cochlea during chemical exposure

Answer: A. Ototoxic chemicals generate ROS that damage cochlear cell membranes and DNA

Explanation:

The correct answer is that ototoxic chemicals generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which damage cochlear cell membranes and DNA. Oxidative stress of this kind is a common pathway of chemical injury to hair cells and the stria vascularis.

The option saying ROS protect hair cells has the effect backwards, because ROS are the harmful agent here. The option saying ROS come only from noise is wrong because chemicals can produce them as well. The option saying ROS improve blood flow to the cochlea is wrong because the effect is damage, not improved circulation.

Rule to remember: chemical ototoxicity often works through oxidative damage, so chemical exposure can harm hearing even without loud noise, and the two exposures can add to each other.

Example 2

Question: Which type of hearing protection device generally provides the highest level of noise reduction?

  1. Cotton balls
  2. Earplugs
  3. Earmuffs
  4. Both earplugs and earmuffs used together

Answer: D. Both earplugs and earmuffs used together

Explanation:

The correct answer is both earplugs and earmuffs used together, often called double protection. Each device attenuates sound alone, and combining them gives the highest level of noise reduction. It is recommended where noise is extreme and a single device may not give enough attenuation.

Cotton balls are wrong because they give little reliable protection and are not a hearing protection device. Earplugs alone and earmuffs alone are both useful, but neither matches the two worn together.

Rule to remember: when single protection is not enough, add a second device rather than relying on a makeshift option. Proper fit still matters, because a poorly seated plug or muff loses much of its benefit.

Example 3

Question: After a worker is found to have a confirmed STS, the employer must take which of the following steps if the worker is not already under physician care for hearing loss?

  1. Immediately reassign the worker to a quieter department
  2. File an OSHA 300 recordable entry within 24 hours
  3. Refer the worker to a physician or audiologist at no cost to the worker
  4. Retest the worker every week for 90 days before referral

Answer: C. Refer the worker to a physician or audiologist at no cost to the worker

Explanation:

The correct answer is to refer the worker to a physician or audiologist at no cost to the worker. When a standard threshold shift (STS) is confirmed and the worker is not already under physician care for hearing loss, the employer is responsible for the referral and its cost.

Reassigning the worker to a quieter department is wrong because it is not the required step. The 24 hour OSHA 300 entry is wrong because that timing is not the rule being tested. Weekly retesting for 90 days is wrong because it would delay the referral and is not a requirement.

Rule to remember: a confirmed STS leads to follow-up care arranged and paid for by the employer, along with other follow-up actions such as notification and protection review.

How to use these practice tests

Start with the official CAOHC exam guide so you know the format, time limit and retake rules. Then use the practice sets to find where you are weakest.

Take a first pass through the basics: Physics of Sound and Anatomy, Occupational Hearing Loss and Noise Measurement and Control. Next work through the practical side with Audiometric Testing Procedures and Audiogram Review and STS, since the course also tests audiometry in practice.

Then move to program topics: Hearing Protection Devices, Hearing Protection Device Fitting, Federal Regulations and Standards and Recordkeeping and Program Management.

Our questions are written by us and are not real exam questions, so use them to build understanding, not to memorise answers.

START CAOHC PRACTICE TEST

CAOHC Flashcards

Quick review for the CAOHC Certification Test

📚 👂What is the primary goal of a CAOHC hearing conservation program?
To prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in the workplace through testing and education.
🎯 🔄How often is CAOHC Recertification required?
Every 5 years. COHCs must complete a CAOHC Recertification Course before expiry.
💡 📊What is a Standard Threshold Shift (STS)?
An average change of 10 dB or more at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz in either ear.
📚 📉What is the "Action Level" for noise exposure?
85 decibels (dBA) time-weighted average (TWA) over an 8-hour shift.
🎯 🩺Who supervises the CAOHC Certified Technician?
A CAOHC Professional Supervisor, typically an audiologist or physician.
CAOHC EXAM QUESTIONS

CAOHC Study Guide & FAQ

Explore our detailed CAOHC Study Guide designed to answer your most pressing questions about the exam. From understanding the CAOHC Certification Cost to finding the best CAOHC Certification Classes, these tabs provide essential insights for your preparation. Whether you are looking for CAOHC Certification Online Free resources or details on CAOHC Recertification Classes, we have you covered.

ℹ️ CAOHC Basics

What is CAOHC Certification?
CAOHC Certification validates a technician's ability to manage hearing conservation programs. It is essential for conducting audiometric tests and ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations.
Who needs CAOHC Certified status?
Professionals conducting hearing tests in industrial settings, including nurses, technicians, and safety managers, often require CAOHC Certified status.
Are there Online CAOHC Training options?
Yes, Online CAOHC Training is available, though practical components usually require hands-on verification. Look for approved CAOHC Certification Courses Online.
What is the CAOHC Hearing Conservation Manual?
The CAOHC Hearing Conservation Manual is the primary textbook for the course, covering noise physics, anatomy of the ear, and audiometric testing procedures.

📝 CAOHC Format

How many questions are on the CAOHC Test?
The CAOHC Test typically consists of 50 to 75 multiple-choice questions derived from the course curriculum.
What topics does the CAOHC Exam cover?
The CAOHC Exam covers noise measurement, hearing protection fitting, audiometric testing, and record-keeping, as detailed in the CAOHC Study Guide.
Is the CAOHC Practice Test helpful?
Absolutely. Taking a CAOHC Practice Test helps identify weak areas and familiarizes you with the question format found in the actual CAOHC Certification Test.
What is the passing score for CAOHC?
Candidates must typically score 70% or higher to pass the CAOHC Certification Test Questions section and demonstrate practical competency.

📅 CAOHC Registration

How do I register for CAOHC Training?
You can find approved CAOHC Training providers through the official CAOHC website or by searching for "CAOHC Certification Courses" near you.
What is the CAOHC Certification Cost?
The CAOHC Certification Cost varies by course provider but typically ranges from $500 to $900, including training materials and exam fees.
Can I find CAOHC Recertification Classes?
Yes, CAOHC Recertification Classes are widely available for current COHCs needing to renew their credential every five years.
Are there CAOHC Jobs available?
Yes, having this credential opens doors to many CAOHC Jobs in occupational health, industrial safety, and mobile testing clinics.

📊 CAOHC Results

When do I get my CAOHC results?
Results for the CAOHC Exam are often provided immediately after computer-based testing or within a few weeks for paper exams.
How do I perform a CAOHC Certification Lookup?
You can verify credentials using the CAOHC Certification Lookup tool on the Council's official website to confirm a technician's status.
What if I fail the CAOHC Test?
If you fail, you may retake the CAOHC Test, often requiring a re-examination fee. Reviewing CAOHC Test Questions and study materials is recommended.
How do I get CAOHC Certification Verification?
Employers can request CAOHC Certification Verification directly from the Council or ask the technician for their current COHC card.

💡 CAOHC Tips

Any tips for the CAOHC Exam?
Focus on the CAOHC Hearing Conservation Manual and practice with CAOHC Sample Test Questions to improve your retention of key concepts.
Is CAOHC Recertification difficult?
CAOHC Recertification is generally shorter than the initial course (8 hours vs 20 hours) and focuses on updates and refresher topics.
Where can I find a CAOHC Study Guide?
We provide a comprehensive CAOHC Study Guide online, and your course instructor will provide the official manual during training.
What is the role of a CAOHC Professional Supervisor?
A CAOHC Professional Supervisor (audiologist/physician) oversees the program, reviews problem audiograms, and determines work-relatedness of hearing loss.

The official CAOHC Hearing Conservation Manual is your bible for this exam. Pay close attention to the chapters on audiogram review and standard threshold shifts (STS), as these are frequent topics in CAOHC Test Questions.

CAOHC PRACTICE EXAM

Expect to invest between $600 and $1,000 for your initial CAOHC Certification, including the course, exam, and materials. Many employers cover these CAOHC Certification Cost expenses.

START CAOHC TEST PREP

CAOHC Career Opportunities

Being CAOHC Certified opens doors to various specialized roles in occupational health.

CAOHC TEST PRACTICE

CAOHC Test Day Checklist

Valid Government ID
Course Completion Cert
Exam Confirmation Email
Review Study Guide
Arrive 30 Mins Early
Leave Electronics in Car
Bring No. 2 Pencils (if paper)
Positive Attitude!

Ready to Get CAOHC Certified?

Join thousands of occupational health professionals who have passed their exams with our free resources. Start your CAOHC Practice Test now and secure your certification.

Sign up for CAOHC Recertification Classes at least 3-6 months before your expiration date. Employers often require active CAOHC Certification Verification for employment.

Pros

  • Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
  • Increases job market competitiveness
  • Provides structured learning goals
  • Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

Cons

  • Study materials can be expensive
  • Exam anxiety can affect performance
  • Requires dedicated preparation time
  • Retake fees apply if you don't pass

Pros and Cons at a Glance

ProsCons
Validates your knowledge and skills objectivelyStudy materials can be expensive
Increases job market competitivenessExam anxiety can affect performance
Provides structured learning goalsRequires dedicated preparation time
Networking opportunities with other certified professionalsRetake fees apply if you don't pass

Sample CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

  1. What is the primary role of a CAOHC-certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (OHC)?

    • A. To diagnose hearing disorders and prescribe treatment
    • B. To conduct audiometric testing and assist in administering hearing conservation programs
    • C. To perform medical examinations for hearing loss claims
    • D. To serve as an OSHA compliance officer

    Answer: B. To conduct audiometric testing and assist in administering hearing conservation programs

    OHCs conduct pure tone audiometric testing and assist with HCP administration under the supervision of a licensed audiologist or physician.

  2. How many contact hours of continuing education does CAOHC require for OHC recertification over the 5-year cycle?

    • A. 10 hours
    • B. 20 hours
    • C. 40 hours
    • D. 50 hours

    Answer: B. 20 hours

    CAOHC requires OHCs to complete 20 contact hours of approved continuing education during each 5-year recertification period.

  3. How often must a CAOHC-certified OHC renew their certification to remain active?

    • A. Every 2 years
    • B. Every 3 years
    • C. Every 5 years
    • D. Every 10 years

    Answer: C. Every 5 years

    CAOHC certification is valid for 5 years and requires renewal through continuing education and a recertification process.

  4. What is the maximum permissible ambient noise level for the 500 Hz octave band in an audiometric test room according to ANSI S3.1?

    • A. 40 dB SPL
    • B. 50 dB SPL
    • C. 25 dB SPL
    • D. 60 dB SPL

    Answer: A. 40 dB SPL

    ANSI S3.1 specifies maximum permissible ambient noise levels (MPANLs) for audiometric testing rooms. For the 500 Hz octave band, the MPANL is 40 dB SPL when testing to 0 dB HL using supra-aural earphones.

Take the full CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation practice test

CAOHC Questions and Answers

What is the CAOHC certification exam?

The CAOHC (Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation) exam certifies Occupational Hearing Conservationists to perform audiometric testing in workplace hearing conservation programs. It validates competency in pure-tone air conduction testing, otoscopic inspection, and OSHA 1910.95 compliance. Certification is required under OSHA's Hearing Conservation Amendment for technicians conducting employee audiograms.

What is the format of the CAOHC certification exam?

The CAOHC exam is a written multiple-choice test administered at the end of an approved 20-hour initial certification course. It includes both a written knowledge assessment and a practical hands-on demonstration of audiometric testing skills. Candidates must pass both components under the supervision of a CAOHC-approved Course Director.

How many questions are on the CAOHC exam?

The CAOHC written exam typically contains 50 multiple-choice questions covering hearing conservation fundamentals, audiometry procedures, and regulatory requirements. The practical portion requires candidates to demonstrate proper audiometer calibration checks, otoscopic examination, and a complete audiometric test on a live subject. Exam length varies slightly by Course Director.

What topics are covered on the CAOHC exam?

Topics include anatomy and physiology of the ear, noise-induced hearing loss, sound measurement, OSHA noise standards, audiometer operation and calibration, pure-tone air conduction testing, otoscopic inspection, standard threshold shift calculations, hearing protector selection, and employee training requirements. The curriculum follows CAOHC's standardized core content outline for Occupational Hearing Conservationists.

Who is eligible to take the CAOHC exam?

CAOHC certification is open to nurses, industrial hygienists, safety professionals, medical assistants, technicians, and other personnel responsible for workplace audiometric testing. There are no formal education prerequisites, but candidates must complete an approved 20-hour initial course taught by a CAOHC-certified Course Director. Audiologists and physicians are exempt from certification requirements.

How do I register for the CAOHC exam?

Registration is handled directly through CAOHC-approved Course Directors rather than a central CAOHC testing portal. Candidates locate an approved course via the CAOHC directory at caohc.org, contact the Course Director, and enroll in the 20-hour training session. The exam fee is typically bundled into the course tuition charged by the provider.

How long is CAOHC certification valid?

CAOHC certification is valid for five years from the date of successful completion. To maintain certification, technicians must complete an 8-hour CAOHC-approved recertification course before their expiration date. Recertification reviews updates to OSHA regulations, audiometric best practices, and refreshes hands-on testing competencies with a Course Director.

What are the best tips to prepare for the CAOHC exam?

Review OSHA 1910.95 hearing conservation standards, study ear anatomy and audiogram interpretation, and practice calculating standard threshold shifts with age corrections from Appendix F. Familiarize yourself with audiometer daily biological checks and proper headphone placement. Take timed practice tests covering decibel math, noise dosimetry, and hearing protector attenuation ratings before course day.

What is the passing score for the CAOHC?

Candidates need a score of 70% or higher to pass the CAOHC COHC exam. (Verified Oct 18, 2026 against Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation.)

How much does the CAOHC cost?

CAOHC does not set one national price for the COHC course: registration fees vary by location and Course Director. (Verified Oct 18, 2026 against Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation.)

Sources & last verified

  1. Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation — number of questions, time limit, passing score, retake fee (official source). “For initial certifications, the exam is 75 minutes and consists of 50 questions.” Verified Oct 27, 2026 · source checked Oct 18, 2026.
  2. Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation — exam fee, eligibility, registration opens (official source). “Registration fees vary by location and Course Director.” Verified Oct 27, 2026 · source checked Oct 18, 2026.
  3. Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation — validity, delivery (official source). “The COHC certification expiration date is set for 5 years from the date you complete the course, not the exam.” Verified Oct 27, 2026 · source checked Oct 18, 2026.
  4. Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation — renewal (official source). “Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) must renew their credentials every 5 years.” Verified Oct 27, 2026 · source checked Oct 18, 2026.

How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.

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