How Often Should You Have a Hearing Test?

Regular hearing tests can catch changes early, when they're easiest to manage. But how often should you actually have your hearing checked? The answer depends on your age, lifestyle, and risk factors.

General guidelines

There are no rigid NHS guidelines mandating hearing tests at specific intervals for the general population, but hearing care professionals generally recommend:

• Adults under 50: Every 5–10 years, or sooner if you notice any changes
• Adults aged 50–60: Every 3–5 years
• Adults over 60: Every 1–2 years
• Existing hearing aid users: Annually, to monitor any changes and ensure hearing aids remain properly calibrated

Higher-risk groups

You should have your hearing checked more frequently if you:

• Work in a noisy environment — annual testing is recommended and may be required by your employer under HSE regulations
• Are a musician or regularly attend concerts
• Take ototoxic medications (certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, or high-dose aspirin)
• Have a family history of hearing loss
• Have a medical condition that affects hearing, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or Ménière's disease

Why regular testing matters

Hearing loss typically develops gradually — so gradually that you may not notice it until it's quite advanced. Regular testing creates a baseline against which future results can be compared, making it easier to detect changes early. Research from the RNID and other organisations shows that early intervention with hearing aids leads to better outcomes in terms of communication, social engagement, and overall wellbeing.

A hearing test is quick, often free, and completely painless. If you can't remember when you last had your hearing checked, now is a good time to book.