Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a major step forward for millions of people with hearing loss. Here's what they are, who they're designed for, and how they differ from traditional hearing aids.
What Does "OTC" Mean?
In 2022, the FDA established a new category: over-the-counter hearing aids. This means adults 18 and older can purchase hearing aids directly — without a prescription, a hearing exam, or a visit to an audiologist — to address perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
All products sold on OTCHealthMart.com are FDA-cleared OTC hearing aids.
Who Are OTC Hearing Aids Designed For?
OTC hearing aids are appropriate for adults (18+) who:
Notice they are having difficulty hearing conversations, especially in noisy environments
Frequently ask others to repeat themselves
Have trouble hearing the TV at normal volumes
Experience what they perceive to be mild-to-moderate hearing difficulty
They are not designed for children or for individuals with severe or profound hearing loss.
How Are OTC Hearing Aids Different from Prescription Hearing Aids?
OTC Hearing Aids | Prescription Hearing Aids | |
Requires exam | No | Yes |
Fitted by audiologist | No | Yes |
Price range | $99–$600/pair typically | $2,000–$7,000/pair typically |
Who can buy | Any adult 18+ | Anyone with a prescription |
FDA regulated | Yes | Yes |
Adjustable | Yes, via app or controls | Yes, by audiologist |
What OTC Hearing Aids Cannot Do
They cannot replace a professional hearing evaluation if you suspect significant hearing loss.
They are not a treatment for underlying ear conditions.
They cannot be programmed to a clinical audiogram the way prescription devices can.
When to See an Audiologist Instead
Please consult a licensed audiologist or your doctor if you experience:
Sudden loss of hearing in one or both ears
Pain, discharge, or fluid from the ear
Ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds (tinnitus) that are new or worsening
Difficulty with hearing that is severe — you cannot hear loud sounds
Hearing loss in only one ear
Hearing loss that you believe may be caused by an underlying medical condition
Your hearing health matters. We're proud to offer accessible solutions, but we always encourage you to put your health first.
Questions about whether OTC hearing aids are right for you? Email us at Care@OTCHealthMart.com — we're happy to help you think it through.