What is the IHS International Licensing Examination?

The International Licensing Examination (ILE) is developed by the International Hearing Society to assess competency for hearing aid specialists seeking state licensure. It measures knowledge required for safe and effective practice in fitting and dispensing hearing instruments. Many U.S. states accept the ILE as part of their licensing requirements for hearing instrument specialists.

How many questions are on the IHS practice exam?

The ILE written portion contains 150 multiple-choice questions covering hearing instrument sciences and practical application. Candidates are given three hours to complete the written section. A separate practical examination evaluates hands-on skills including otoscopy, audiometric testing, and earmold impressions.

What is the passing score for the IHS exam?

Candidates must achieve a scaled score of 70 or higher to pass the ILE written examination. The practical portion is scored separately and also requires a passing mark. Scores are reported to the candidate and to the state licensing board where the candidate plans to practice.

What topics does the IHS licensing exam cover?

The ILE covers anatomy and physiology of the ear, sound and acoustics, psychology of the hearing impaired, pure tone and speech audiometry, masking, hearing aid selection and fitting, earmold technology, and counseling. It also tests knowledge of federal regulations including FDA requirements for hearing aid dispensing.

Who is eligible to take the IHS exam?

Eligibility requirements vary by state but typically include being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or equivalent, and completing a training or apprenticeship period under a licensed hearing instrument specialist. Some states also require completion of the IHS Distance Learning course before sitting for the exam.

How do I register for the IHS International Licensing Examination?

Registration is handled through the International Hearing Society by submitting an application form along with the required fee and proof of eligibility. Applicants must indicate their state of intended practice so scores can be forwarded to the appropriate licensing board. Exam dates and locations are scheduled through state licensing agencies.

How much does the IHS exam cost?

The ILE examination fee is typically around $325 for the written portion, though costs vary by state and may include additional practical exam fees. Some states charge separate licensing application fees on top of the exam cost. Retake fees apply if a candidate fails and needs to sit for the exam again.

What is the best way to prepare for the IHS exam?

Effective preparation includes completing the IHS Distance Learning course, studying Michael Valente's Audiology textbooks, and working through practice questions covering audiometry and hearing aid fitting. Hands-on apprenticeship experience with a licensed specialist is essential for the practical portion. Reviewing FDA regulations and state-specific dispensing laws is also recommended.

IHS Practice Test

Updated October 2026

Oct 27, 202612 min read

⏱️2 HoursTime Limit

📝120Questions

✅70%Passing Score

💵$250Exam Fee

The IHS exam evaluates the competency of hearing aid professionals in the IHS healthcare field. Success on the ILE test prep journey requires understanding both theoretical hearing science and practical clinical skills. Use our IHS distance learning supplement resources to boost your score.

Ihs Exam - IHS International Hearing Society study guide

IHS Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the IHS - International Hearing Society exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

IHS Auditory Assessment

IHS Exam Questions covering Auditory Assessment. Master IHS Test concepts for certification prep.

IHS Hearing Loss Assessment

Free IHS Practice Test featuring Hearing Loss Assessment. Improve your IHS Exam score with mock test prep.

IHS Acoustics and Sound

IHS Mock Exam on Acoustics and Sound. IHS Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

IHS - International Hearing Society Anatom...

IHS Mock Exam on - International Hearing Society Anatomy and Physiology of Hearing. IHS Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

IHS - International Hearing Society Audiom...

IHS Test Prep for - International Hearing Society Audiometric Testing Procedures. Practice IHS Quiz questions and boost your score.

IHS - International Hearing Society Earmol...

IHS Questions and Answers on - International Hearing Society Earmold and Impression Techniques. Free IHS practice for exam readiness.

IHS - International Hearing Society Hearin...

IHS Mock Test covering - International Hearing Society Hearing Aid Technology. Online IHS Test practice with instant feedback.

IHS - International Hearing Society Hearin...

Free IHS Quiz on - International Hearing Society Hearing Instrument Fitting. IHS Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

IHS - International Hearing Society Hearin...

IHS Practice Questions for - International Hearing Society Hearing Instrument Selection. Build confidence for your IHS certification exam.

IHS - International Hearing Society Patien...

IHS Test Online for - International Hearing Society Patient Counseling and Rehabilitation. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

IHS - International Hearing Society Profes...

IHS Study Material on - International Hearing Society Professional and Ethical Standards. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

IHS - International Hearing Society Troubl...

Free IHS Test covering - International Hearing Society Troubleshooting Hearing Instruments. Practice and track your IHS exam readiness.

IHS - International Hearing Society Verifi...

IHS Exam Questions covering - International Hearing Society Verification and Validation Methods. Master IHS Test concepts for certification prep.

FREE IHS PRACTICE TEST

IHS Exam Flashcards

Quick review for the International Hearing Society Exam

🧬What is Presbycusis?

Presbycusis is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people get older, typically affecting high frequencies first.

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📝Purpose of Bone Conduction?

Bone conduction testing bypasses the outer and middle ear to stimulate the inner ear directly, helping identify conductive hearing loss.

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🔍What is Otoscopy?

Otoscopy is the visual examination of the ear canal and tympanic membrane using an otoscope to check for obstructions or abnormalities.

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🎛️What is Feedback?

Feedback is the whistling sound caused when sound from the hearing aid speaker leaks back into the microphone and is re-amplified.

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IHS EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

IHS Study Guide & FAQ

Everything you need to know about the International Hearing Society licensure process and the ILE test prep requirements.

What is the IHS exam?	The IHS exam, officially the International Licensing Examination (ILE), is a standardized test used by states and provinces to license Hearing Aid Specialists.
Who takes the IHS test?	Individuals seeking licensure as a Hearing Aid Specialist or Dispenser take the IHS test after completing required education or apprenticeship.
What does IHS stand for?	IHS stands for the International Hearing Society, the professional association that develops the exam.
Is the IHS exam hard?	The IHS exam is challenging, covering anatomy, acoustics, and legal regulations. Proper ILE test prep is essential for success.

What is the IHS exam?

The IHS exam, officially the International Licensing Examination (ILE), is a standardized test used by states and provinces to license Hearing Aid Specialists.

Who takes the IHS test?

Individuals seeking licensure as a Hearing Aid Specialist or Dispenser take the IHS test after completing required education or apprenticeship.

What does IHS stand for?

IHS stands for the International Hearing Society, the professional association that develops the exam.

Is the IHS exam hard?

The IHS exam is challenging, covering anatomy, acoustics, and legal regulations. Proper ILE test prep is essential for success.

Focus heavily on audiometric interpretation and real-ear measurement concepts, as these are heavily weighted on the IHS exam.

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IHS Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

Many hearing clinics and franchises will pay for your IHS test fees and IHS distance learning materials if you commit to working for them.

Hearing Aid Licensing Exam - IHS International Hearing Society study guide

FREE HEARING AID LICENSING TEST

Hearing Aid Specialist Careers

Passing the IHS exam allows you to specialize in various areas of hearing healthcare.

🏥

Clinical Specialist

Work in ENT offices or hospitals conducting hearing tests and fitting aids.

🏪

Retail Dispenser

Operate in retail settings like Costco or specialized hearing aid franchises.

👶

Pediatric Specialist

Specialize in fitting hearing aids for children and managing pediatric hearing loss.

💼

Practice Owner

Open your own private hearing clinic and manage business operations.

🔬

Industry Rep

Work for hearing aid manufacturers training other specialists on new technology.

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IHS Test Day Checklist

✓Valid Photo ID (Driver's License)
✓Exam Confirmation Email
✓Arrive 30 Minutes Early
✓Leave Electronics in Car
✓Review Audiogram Symbols
✓Know FDA Red Flags
✓Dress Comfortably (Layers)
✓Positive Mindset

📄Free IHS Practice Test PDF

Master the IHS Exam Today

Get instant access to our premium Hearing Aid Licensing Exam questions, detailed study guides, and flashcards. Pass your test and start your career.

IHS License Renewal

🔄

Cycle

1-2 Years

🎓

CEUs

20-30 Hours

💲

Fee

$100-$300

The IHS distance learning platform offers CEU credits that are accepted by most state licensing boards for renewal purposes.

✅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

IHS Questions and Answers

Official Resources

International Hearing Society: International Licensing Examination (ILE) — the official IHS page describing the ILE that many states and provinces use to license hearing aid specialists.
IHS Licensing Agency Contacts — find the state or provincial licensing board that sets your exam registration, fees and practical-exam requirements.
U.S. FDA: Hearing Aids — the federal regulator's guidance on prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids that dispensers must follow.

How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy

ihsinfo.org — Time limit, test delivery, eligibility, fees, retake policy · verified Oct 2026
myhome.ihsinfo.org — Passing score, retake fee · verified Oct 2026