Key Takeaways
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Hearing tests are painless, quick, and essential for diagnosing hearing loss.
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You can get tested in person at an ENT, audiologist, retail clinic, or from home via online screening tools.
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After the test, your results help determine the best next step—whether that’s treatment, hearing aids, or a medical referral.
What Is a Hearing Test?
A hearing test measures how well you can hear various sounds, pitches, and speech. It’s a painless way to assess whether you have hearing loss and how severe it might be. Whether you’re experiencing muffled sounds, difficulty following conversations, or turning up the TV more than usual, a hearing test can help uncover what’s going on.
Most tests are conducted by audiologists or hearing professionals, but there are now online hearing screenings and at-home options that offer added convenience. Even if you’re not sure you’re ready for hearing aids, a test is a simple first step in understanding your hearing health.
Where to Get a Hearing Test
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to hearing care. Where you choose to get tested can depend on your schedule, insurance, mobility, or how thorough an evaluation you want.
In-Person at an Audiologist or ENT Clinic
Audiologists are trained specialists who can assess your hearing and explain your results in detail. ENTs (ear, nose, and throat doctors) are medical doctors who can evaluate if hearing loss is related to another condition, like infection or nerve damage.
Getting tested at a clinic typically involves:
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A full case history
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Otoscopic exam to inspect your ear canal
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Audiometric testing in a sound booth
If you suspect your hearing loss might be caused by something medical—or if you want insurance coverage—an ENT or audiology clinic is a great place to start.
Hearing Aid Centers & Retail Clinics
You’ll also find hearing screenings at:
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Hearing aid retailers
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Big-box stores like Costco or Sam’s Club
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Independent hearing centers
These are often free or discounted, especially if you’re open to exploring hearing aid options at the same time. Even if you don’t buy anything, you’re entitled to request a copy of your test results. This allows you to shop around or upload your results to providers like Audicus for further consultation.
Online & App-Based Screenings
Digital hearing tests are growing in popularity. Tools like the Audicus Online Hearing Test let you take a screening from home using headphones and a quiet room.
While they can’t match the accuracy of an in-person audiogram, they’re a solid first step if you're curious, especially if visiting a clinic isn't possible.
At-Home Kits
Some companies offer mail-order or technician-delivered at-home hearing tests. These services often combine in-person evaluation with remote consultations and may appeal to those with limited mobility.
What to Expect During a Hearing Test
A hearing test is typically quick and straightforward, lasting 30–60 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Case History & Symptom Discussion
Your provider will ask about symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and any history of noise exposure. This helps them interpret your results and rule out contributing factors.
Otoscopy (Ear Exam)
Using a lighted scope, the provider checks your ear canal for wax, infections, or abnormalities that could affect your hearing.
Pure-Tone Audiometry
This is the core test: you’ll wear headphones and respond to a series of beeps at different frequencies and volumes. It helps measure the softest sounds you can hear at each pitch.
Speech Testing
You’ll also be asked to repeat words spoken at various volumes to evaluate how well you understand speech in quiet or noisy settings.
Tympanometry and Other Tests (If Needed)
This checks how well your eardrum moves, which can reveal middle ear issues like fluid or pressure problems. Some tests may also include bone conduction or otoacoustic emissions (OAEs).
Reviewing Your Results
After testing, you’ll receive an audiogram—a visual chart showing your hearing thresholds. Your provider will walk through what it means and whether follow-up is needed.
How to Prepare for a Hearing Test
You don’t need to do much to get ready, but a little prep can make your test more effective.
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Avoid loud noise for at least 12–24 hours before your appointment. Exposure can cause temporary threshold shifts and skew your results.
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List your symptoms and medications ahead of time. Think about when you noticed changes in hearing and in what situations it’s most noticeable.
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Bring a family member or friend if possible. They can help describe any issues you may not notice—and support is always helpful when making decisions about next steps.
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Don’t clean your ears with cotton swabs. Leave that to the professionals, who can safely remove wax if necessary.
How Long Does It Take, and How Much Does It Cost?
Time:
Most hearing tests take 30 to 60 minutes. Add time if you're also being fitted for hearing aids or seeing a specialist.
Cost:
Prices vary widely:
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Free at some retailers or hearing aid providers
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$50–$150 at independent audiologists or clinics
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Covered by insurance if medically necessary or part of a referral
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Medicare may cover diagnostic hearing tests if ordered by a doctor, but generally does not cover routine screenings
For reference, the NIH recommends adults with hearing concerns seek evaluation early to prevent further decline in quality of life.
What Happens After the Test?
Once you receive your results, your provider will help guide you on next steps and whether hearing aids may help:
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Mild hearing loss? You may benefit from strategies like volume control or situational devices.
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Moderate to severe hearing loss? You’ll likely be a candidate for hearing aids—either prescription or over-the-counter.
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Medical issue found? An ENT may provide further testing or treatment.
If hearing aids are recommended, you’ll have time to ask questions, compare options, and discuss fit, features, and price.
FAQs: Hearing Test Questions People Ask
How often should I get a hearing test?
Adults should get a baseline test by age 50, then every few years after that. If you notice changes in your hearing or struggle with conversations, schedule a test sooner.
Can I trust an online hearing test?
Online tests are helpful for screening and giving you a general sense of whether you may have hearing loss. But they aren’t as precise as in-person audiograms and shouldn’t replace a professional exam if you’re having symptoms.
Does insurance cover hearing tests?
Some insurance plans (and Medicare Advantage plans) cover hearing exams if deemed medically necessary. Always check with your provider in advance to understand coverage and copays.
Will a hearing test hurt?
No. Hearing tests are non-invasive and completely painless. You’ll wear headphones, listen for tones, and answer simple prompts.
What if I have hearing loss but don’t want hearing aids?
That’s okay—getting a test doesn’t commit you to treatment. Knowing your hearing status helps you make informed choices, even if you decide not to act right away.
