Why should you take the test?
The National Hearing Test can be the first step on your path to taking charge of your hearing health. Approximately 36 million Americans have significant hearing loss, yet most have never had their hearing tested. Untreated hearing loss can lead to a serious decline in your quality of life, causing social isolation and problems at work.
What is the test like?
It can be done from a telephone in just 10 minutes. You simply listen to several three-digit sequences, then use the keypad to enter what you heard. If you are doing well, the test becomes more difficult by making it harder to hear the digits. If you are making errors, the test gets easier. Immediately after the test, you are given the results for each ear. This can help you decide whether you should see an audiologist for a complete hearing evaluation.
What does it cost?
The test is free for AARP members to take once a year. When you start the test, you’ll be asked to verify your membership to receive an access code to continue. For non-members, the cost is $8.
What kinds of hearing loss does the test detect?
The National Hearing Test is very effective at detecting the most common forms of hearing loss, those that are age-related and those that result from exposure to loud noises. Click here for information on less common hearing problems that require a different approach.
What are signs that you may need an audiologist?
Even if you pass this type of hearing test, you may want to seek professional care if you often ask people to repeat things or have difficulty following conversations in noisy places. Research shows that people with these problems are likely to have significant hearing loss.
For more information
To learn more about the test, go to Frequently Asked Questions. To read about the research behind the National Hearing Test, go to For Audiologists. To start the test, complete a questionnaire.