Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) published a rule allowing any person over the age of eighteen to buy OTC hearing aid(s) from various places such as retail stores, online stores, by mail, or from some NC licensed hearing healthcare professionals without a prescription. OTC hearing aids are designed for people who think they have mild to moderate hearing loss and may be programmed by the consumer themselves. Consumers may choose to consult with a NC licensed hearing healthcare professional prior to the purchase of an OTC hearing aid but it is not required. If there is a possibility that a health condition could be causing hearing loss, please do consider discussing with a primary healthcare provider.

Below are some resources that may help in making an informed decision regarding OTC hearing aids: