Hearing Test: Types, What to Expect & When to Get Tested

What It Is

A hearing test (audiological evaluation) measures your ability to hear different sounds, pitches, and volumes. An audiologist conducts several tests in a sound-treated room to determine the type, degree, and configuration of any hearing loss. Results are plotted on an audiogram.

Who It Helps

Hearing tests help anyone noticing hearing difficulty, tinnitus (ringing), or who has risk factors for hearing loss (noise exposure, age over 60, family history). Newborns are screened at birth, and adults should be tested regularly.

What to Expect

The test takes 30-60 minutes and is painless. You wear headphones and respond to tones at various pitches and volumes. Speech recognition tests measure how well you understand words. Results are immediately available and the audiologist explains them and recommends next steps.

Cost Range

Typical Duration

30-60 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I get my hearing tested?

Adults should get a baseline hearing test by age 50, then every 3 years after. Test sooner if you notice hearing difficulty, work in noisy environments, or have ringing in your ears. Children should be tested at milestones per pediatrician recommendations.

How do I know if I need a hearing test?

Signs include asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, difficulty hearing in noisy environments, ringing in ears, or if others suggest you might have hearing difficulty.

Are hearing tests covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover diagnostic hearing tests ordered by a doctor. Medicare covers diagnostic audiological evaluations. Coverage for hearing aids varies widely by plan.

What happens if hearing loss is detected?

Your audiologist will explain the type and degree of loss and recommend options. These may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices, or medical treatment for treatable causes.

How much does a hearing test cost?

A hearing evaluation costs $75-$250. Hearing aids cost $1,000-$6,000 per pair. OTC hearing aids cost $200-$1,000. An ENT consultation costs $150-$400. OpenMyPro helps you find affordable hearing care.

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