The majority of hearing aids in the US are dispensed by audiologists.

It is largely audiologists who establish contemporary practice models and standards for evaluating and fitting hearing aids (including those used by Hearing Aid Specialists).  Audiologists’ extensive education and training is in the application of principles and procedures for identification of hearing disorders, as well as their remediation.  The doctorate is the requirement for new graduates, and audiologists are required to obtain 30 hours of continuing education every two years.  Audiologists are highly qualified to dispense hearing aids, and should be exempt from having to travel to Richmond to take additional examinations to obtain a HAS license.