Hearing aids and other in-ear devices

Candidates are permitted to wear hearing aids (including Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids) without prior approval unless the hearing aids require an external device (such as a mobile phone) to function. If an external device is necessary for the hearing aids to work, then the candidate must request an accommodation prior to scheduling their appointment. Candidates without an accommodation must turn off their external devices and store them.

Identifying in-ear devices

If the candidate is wearing a device in one or both ears, use the following descriptions to help identify the device and determine next steps.

Hearing aids typically have one or more of the following features:

Behind-the-ear component with a thin wire leading into the ear canal
Very small receiver tucked deep in the ear
Often skin-toned, beige, gray, or medically styled
Usually worn in both ears but not always
May have serial numbers or manufacturer markings

Earbuds are prohibited in the testing room. They typically have one or more of the following features:

Larger outer housing
Stem hanging downward (AirPods style)
Bright white, black, or consumer-electronics appearance
Touch controls or visible microphones
Charging case

If you cannot tell what kind of device the candidate is wearing, ask them to identify what they are wearing in their ears.

If the candidate says the item is a hearing aid, thank them for confirming and continue admitting the candidate.
If the candidate says they are wearing earbuds (such as AirPods) or other in-ear headphones, inform the candidate that these items are not permitted.

If you discover the earbuds prior to the pat-down process, ask the candidate to store them.
If you discover the earbuds during or after the pat-down process, see the Zero Tolerance Policy. If you discover the earbuds in the testing room, follow the candidate misconduct process.