Most of us wouldn’t think twice about a regular eye test or dental check-up, yet hearing rarely makes the list. That’s partly because hearing loss tends to creep in gradually so slowly that we adapt to it without realising, turning up the television or asking people to repeat themselves long before we’d ever call it a problem.
That’s exactly why regular hearing tests matter. A simple check picks up changes early, when they’re easiest to manage, and gives you peace of mind if all is well. But how often you actually need one depends on your age and circumstances. Here’s a clear guide for every stage of life.
Why regular hearing tests matter
Because hearing loss develops quietly, the person affected is often the last to notice it’s usually family and friends who spot it first. Regular testing establishes a baseline for your hearing and tracks any changes over time, so anything developing can be caught and addressed early rather than years down the line. A hearing test is quick, painless and, in many cases, free.
How often to test, by age
As a general guide, recommended testing frequency looks like this:
| Age or stage | How often to test |
| Newborns | Once, within the first few weeks of birth |
| Children | At school entry, plus whenever there’s a concern |
| 18–40 | A baseline test, then every 3–5 years |
| 40–60 | Every 2–3 years |
| 60 and over | Every 1–2 years, or annually |
Here’s what that means in a little more detail.
Babies and newborns
In the UK, all newborns are offered a hearing screen through the NHS Newborn Hearing Screening Programme, usually within the first few weeks of life. This checks for hearing problems from the very start, so any support can begin as early as possible.
Children
Many areas offer a hearing screen when children start school. Beyond that, the best guide is your child’s development if they’re slow to speak, frequently ask for things to be repeated, sit very close to the television, or seem not to respond to sound, it’s worth arranging a test. Frequent ear infections or glue ear are also good reasons to have their hearing checked.
Teenagers and young adults (18–40)
If you have no concerns about your hearing, a baseline test in early adulthood followed by a check every three to five years is a sensible routine. The exception is if you’re regularly exposed to loud noise through your job, gigs, or hobbies like shooting or motorsport. In that case, an annual test is wise, because noise-induced hearing loss can build up unnoticed.
Adults (40–60)
From around 40, it’s worth testing a little more often every two to three years is a good rhythm. Age-related hearing changes typically begin to appear from your fifties, and testing at this stage helps you spot early signs before they start affecting conversations and daily life.
Adults (60 and over)
Age-related hearing loss becomes far more common from 60 onwards, so an annual or two-yearly test is recommended, even if you feel your hearing is fine. Regular checks at this stage help keep you safe, confident and connected, and make it easy to act promptly if your hearing does begin to change.
When you should test more often
Regardless of your age, some circumstances mean you should have your hearing checked more frequently usually every year. Consider annual tests if you:
- Are regularly exposed to loud noise at work or in your hobbies
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Experience tinnitus (ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears)
- Have diabetes or a cardiovascular condition, both of which can affect hearing
- Take medications known to affect hearing
- Already have a diagnosed hearing loss that needs monitoring
Signs you shouldn’t wait for your next test
Whatever your schedule, don’t wait if you notice any of these:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Struggling to follow conversations in noisy or group settings
- Turning the TV or phone volume higher than others need
- Feeling that sounds are muffled, or that one ear is worse than the other
- New or worsening tinnitus
One symptom needs urgent attention rather than a routine test: sudden hearing loss, particularly in one ear and coming on over hours or days, should be treated as a medical emergency. Contact your GP or NHS 111 straight away, as prompt treatment can make a real difference.
Getting your hearing checked
The hardest part of a hearing test is usually just booking it the test itself is quick, comfortable and genuinely reassuring. A good first step is a screening to see whether a fuller assessment is worthwhile, followed by a comprehensive test if anything needs a closer look.
At Hearing Health Hub in Milton Keynes, you can start with our free 3-minute hearing screening from the comfort of home, then review the results with a qualified audiologist. As the most-reviewed audiology clinic in Milton Keynes, we offer full diagnostic hearing tests, home visits and appointments seven days a week. Book an appointment whenever you’re ready to check in on your hearing.
This article offers general guidance. For advice about your own hearing, or if you have any concerns, please speak to a qualified audiologist or your GP.
Frequently asked questions
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How often should you have a hearing test after 50?
From around 50, hearing changes become more common, so a test every one to two years is recommended even without symptoms. If you notice any difficulty, or have risk factors such as noise exposure or a family history of hearing loss, annual testing is wise.
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Do I need a hearing test if my hearing seems fine?
Yes. Because hearing loss develops gradually, many people don't notice the early changes themselves. Regular tests establish a baseline and catch any decline early, when it's easiest to manage.
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At what age should you start having regular hearing tests?
A baseline test in early adulthood is a good idea, with routine checks every three to five years until around 40, then more frequently as you get older. Anyone regularly exposed to loud noise should test annually from a young age.