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Hearing Care

What to expect at a free hearing test

The first step to better hearing

Better hearing starts with one simple step: a free hearing test

It's easy to find out if a Miracle-Ear® hearing aid could help you. Getting your hearing checked is the first step to better hearing, and it costs nothing at Miracle-Ear. No referral, no insurance required. During your free hearing test*, we'll work together to understand your individual needs. You've got nothing to lose and so many wonderful sounds to gain.

Why do I need a hearing test?

A hearing test is the only way to know your hearing age and catch changes before they affect your daily life. Hearing loss develops gradually, making it easy to miss, but a quick, non-invasive assessment can detect changes early. Good hearing keeps you connected to the people and moments that matter most. At Miracle-Ear, we offer a free hearing test for seniors and adults of all ages, so you can stay in control of your hearing health.

Hearing assessment steps

1. Complete hearing health history

1. Complete hearing health history

The first step to expect at your hearing test involves your hearing health history. Your hearing care professional will discuss with you your history, including changes you've noticed in your hearing, concerns you may have or any past experiences with hearing aids.
2. Ear canal inspection

2. Ear canal inspection

Your hearing care professional will look inside your ear canal often using a video otoscope*. This is to check for common problems such as excessive wax buildup, damage to the eardrum or other conditions which may make it difficult to hear clearly.
3. Hearing threshold test

3. Hearing threshold test

This auditory test, also known as pure-tone audiometry, determines your degree of hearing loss, or what we call your hearing threshold. It measures the softest sound a person can hear at different frequencies.
4. Speech discrimination test

4. Speech discrimination test

Your hearing care professional may test your ability to hear and understand speech in both quiet and noisy environments.
5. Audiogram review

5. Audiogram review

Your hearing care professional will review your free audiogram — a visual chart of your hearing ability across frequencies — giving you a clear picture of your hearing health.
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Care for your ears

Ear care not only improves your hearing health, but your overall health as well. Get started today by scheduling a free hearing test. Find your nearest Miracle-Ear store to get started on your journey to better hearing.

About your hearing test results

Your hearing care professional will then walk you through the results of each section of the hearing exam, explaining what it means and how it can be addressed. If your hearing test indicates a hearing loss that could be helped by a Miracle-Ear hearing aid, we’ll let you try out some hearing aids right then, so you can hear firsthand the difference a hearing aid can make for you. 

Where can I get my hearing tested for free?

You can get a free hearing evaluation at any Miracle-Ear center across the US. With over 1,600 locations nationwide, finding a store near you is simple — no referral or insurance needed.

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How to prepare for your hearing exam

Taking a little time to prepare ensures you’ll get the most out of your hearing exam. With these tips in mind, you’ll be set for a smooth and informative visit:

  • Note any changes in your hearing. Pay attention to situations where you’ve struggled to hear or follow conversations. Write down details, like when you first noticed the changes and in what environments they occur, to share with your hearing care professional. 
  • Make a list of medications. Certain medications can impact your hearing, so it’s helpful to have a list ready. Be sure to include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and supplements you take regularly.
  • Bring a friend or family member. Having a loved one by your side can make you feel more comfortable and provide valuable insight about your hearing in everyday situations. They can also help you remember key details discussed during the appointment.
  • Think about your daily hearing needs. Consider how important activities like phone calls, meetings or social events factor into your life. Knowing your priorities will help your hearing care professional tailor recommendations to fit your lifestyle.

Schedule your free hearing test

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Recommended frequency of hearing test

Hearing tests aren't just for detecting initial hearing loss. They're an important part of ongoing hearing care. That's why at Miracle-Ear, we recommend scheduling an annual hearing test, even if you already wear hearing aids. Regular check-ups help us monitor any changes in your hearing and ensure your devices are adjusted to meet your needs. By staying proactive with yearly tests, you can enjoy clear, comfortable hearing and get the most out of your hearing aids.

*Miracle-Ear® lifetime aftercare not included with hearing aids purchased utilizing some insurance benefits.
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Commitment to excellence

Join the millions of Americans who have trusted Miracle-Ear for hearing care that’s tailored to their needs.

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FAQs about the hearing test

Our hearing tests are completely free of charge.

Booking takes four quick steps:

  1. Enter your zip code to find your nearest center
  2. Choose a location and time slot
  3. Enter your name, email and phone number
  4. Submit and you'll get a confirmation email within minutes

A comprehensive in-person hearing test typically lasts approximately 60-90 minutes but may vary depending on local availability and your appointment needs.

Our free online hearing test is available on the website. However, online hearing tests cannot provide an accurate assessment of your hearing and are not intended to replace in-person hearing exams. Use the online hearing test to get a general sense of your hearing ability.

We recommend bringing someone you’re close with, such as a friend, spouse, sibling, or parent to your appointment. This way, your hearing care professional can conduct a familiar voice test during the exam, and you’ll have support and a ride if needed.

Insurance is not required for the hearing test because it is free. We can check if your insurance is accepted for hearing aids and discuss payment plans during your appointment. Insurance availability varies by location, see store for details.

Yes. At the end of your appointment, you'll receive a full breakdown of your hearing ability, including your audiogram — everything is explained clearly so you leave with a complete picture of your hearing health.

Not at all. Your results will be reviewed with one of our hearing care professionals, who will advise on the most appropriate course of action based on your individual needs — with no commitment required.

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