Can someone with a hearing impairment join the military?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, do not wait and seek immediate medical attention or emergency care. This page contains emergency guidance but does not provide diagnosis.

• Sudden hearing loss (sudden onset of hearing loss)
• Severe ear pain
• Blood or pus coming from the ear
• Sudden onset of severe dizziness or loss of balance
• Impaired consciousness or fainting

If you have urgent symptoms, do not wait for the military application or the board process; an immediate assessment should be conducted first.

Military medical boards base their decisions on official audiological test results and expert reports. The final decision rests with the board; the information provided on this page is for guidance only and does not constitute a decision.

• The board typically evaluates current audiogram results, speech audiometry, and additional tests such as tympanometry as needed.
• Hearing loss percentages and hearing status in both ears can be considered together or examined separately to make a decision.
• Since each country and institution may have different criteria, regional guidelines will be decisive.

The final decision on suitability is made solely by the military medical board.

The following documents are frequently requested during the application and committee evaluation process. Submitting complete, dated, and authorized signed official documents will facilitate the process.

• Current audiogram (pure tone threshold test) - hospital/clinic letterhead, date, and signature.
• Speech audiometry or speech intelligibility test results, and tympanometry results if necessary.
• ENT specialist or audiologist's examination and opinion report.
• Previous relevant reports and report summaries, if any.

If any tests are missing, the ENT/audiology department will advise on what additional examinations are needed.

You can apply to the military recruitment office with your documents and request a referral to the military health board. There are avenues for appealing the board's decision and seeking reconsideration; detailed information about the process can be obtained from the military recruitment office.

• Submit your updated reports to the military recruitment office and request a board evaluation.
• Once the board's decision is issued, the branch will guide you on your right to appeal and the reconsideration procedures.
• Additional reports or investigations may be requested for an appeal.

Official appeal periods and requirements vary by country; obtain official information from the institution you applied to.

Practical steps and points to consider to simplify the application process.

• Bring all your previous hearing reports and test results with you when you schedule your appointment.
• Ensure that the reports are up-to-date; outdated reports may be considered inadequate.
• Request a written statement from an ENT or audiology specialist; expert opinion is crucial in the board's evaluation.
• Don't forget to get information from the military recruitment office regarding the post-decision process and your right to appeal.

These suggestions are for general guidance only and do not constitute medical treatment or drug advice.